🌤 Weather at Hamilton Pool Preserve by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 49–85 °F | 70–95 °F | 48–89 °F | 39–65 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Dripping Springs 6 E, 12 mi away, elevation 1,084 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
Hamilton Pool Preserve is a local park in Texas near Dripping Springs, run by Travis County. It is not part of Texas’s state park system. Spanning 232 acres and established in 1985, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | Texas |
| Nearest City | Dripping Springs |
| County | Travis County |
| Park Size | 232 acres |
| Established | 1985 |
Location & Getting There
Hamilton Pool Preserve is located near Dripping Springs, Texas. The park’s coordinates are 30.3422, -98.1269.
Things to Do
Hamilton Pool lies below a 50-foot waterfall in a 232-acre preserve that Travis County designated in 1990. A steep, rugged quarter-mile trail leads from the parking lot to the pool; allow about 30 minutes for the round trip. You can swim when bacteria levels and recent rain allow, but swimming is never guaranteed, there is no lifeguard, and only a small part of the pool is open because of falling rocks. The trail under the overhanging cliff is closed. Watch for the golden-cheeked warbler. Pets, camping, cooking and drones are not allowed. Source: Travis County Parks, as of October 2026.
Best Time to Visit
You need a reservation for a morning slot (9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.) or an afternoon slot (2 to 5:30 p.m.). In October 2026 the county was taking reservations through November 2026. The water can drop below 50°F in winter and spring, and the preserve sometimes closes for hazards such as flooding. The county updates its information line (512-854-2581) daily at 8:30 a.m.
Visitor Tips
Hamilton Pool Preserve is run by Travis County Parks, not Texas State Parks, so the Texas State Parks Pass does not apply. You need a reservation every day of the week ($12 per vehicle, paid online by card). Entry is paid in cash at the preserve: $8 for adults 13 to 61, $3 for seniors 62 and older. Swimming is not guaranteed with a reservation, so check the county page for current conditions.
Explore More Texas State Parks
Looking for state parks in Texas? Discover them in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Pedernales Falls State Park (a short drive away) or Blanco State Park (within about an hour’s drive).
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