Summer is still (technically) three weeks away but in Texas that just means it’s been hot for a month already. We have put together a list of some of the best places to cool off in Georgetown and towns around. Whether natural or made to look that way, no one does swimmin’ holes better. Here are ten places you can try and since we don’t want to tell you what your favorites are, they are ranked by distance.
1. Blue Hole Park
Managed by Georgetown Parks and Recreation, Blue Hole is a scenic lagoon that has been enhanced by some man made dams and amenities like restrooms and ramps. This is moving water so safety precautions are important but there’s nothing better than letting the weight of the waterfall on your back or walking over the large rocks with water flowing around you. The water levels and flow rate are mild unless we’ve had a big rain. The entrance to the park is at 2nd Street behind El Monumento but you can also park on San Gabriel street near Hat Creek and walk down the ramp. Pets and grills are welcome but remember, jumping off the cliffs will get you a citation from our friendly neighborhood police department.
2. San Jose Park
This is a public splash pad near the intersection of Maple and 15th Streets downtown. It open to the public during daylight hours and is free to use. With more than a dozen fountain and spray features, this cozy little park has a picnic pavilion, restrooms and a large playscape if you want to take a break from the water. Water is recirculated, filtered and re-chlorinated in underground tanks. It is a on a timer since the park is not monitored but kids love pushing the start button when the water slows down. There are also basketball courts, picnic tables, grills, shade awnings and drinking fountains. Everything you need for a day out with the kids.
3. Recreation Center Outdoor play pool
This is a nice mix of swimming pool and splash pad. The pool has two water slides and several fountain and bucket features for kids of all sizes. There are lifeguards on duty and plenty of tables and umbrellas for picnic times.
4. Lake Georgetown
There are three parks around the lake for swimming and other water activities. Russell Park on the north shore is a great spot for swimming but also camping, grilling, hiking and more. The beach area is washed pebble and perfect for wading although there are no lifeguards are on duty so the city recommends everyone wear lifevests.
There are restrooms; shelters available on a first-come, first-served basis and the park is open through Sept 30 from 6am to sunset. The overlook near Cedar Breaks is a popular spot with young people for sunning and diving and you can take your dog in the water around the shores outside Russell Park.
For more fun, visit GTpaddle.com to reserve kayaks or paddleboards by the hour. This great locally-owned business brings the boats and life vests to you at the ramp. There is a small fee to park in the ramp parks.
5. Downtown Splash Pad
If you’re meandering through the Square and want to cool off, there is a free public splash pad at 822 Main Street next to the art center. The cozy brick courtyard is a great spot to just get your feet wet or take a break with the little ones who are “toooo hooooot”.
6. Quarry Splash Pad
If you want to really wow the kids with unique splash pad day, take a short drive to Southwest Williamson County Regional Park. Built in 2011 in a former quarry, this splash zone park includes natural rock that provides a really unique, pretty atmosphere. There are fountains and sprinklers of all shapes and sizes as well as water cannons, a waterfall, a little slide, a mini climbing wall, a sandbox and plenty of picnic tables, too. There is a $2 fee for all day use and summer is a busy time so get there early to get a good parking spot and claim a nice shady spot under one of their many awnings.
7. Sendero Springs Pool
Located at 4203 Pasada Lane in Round Rock, this pool is not just a summer spot but year-round. The water is heated to 84 degrees in cooler months and there is free wi-fi so you can keep busy while the kiddies play. It has lap lanes and an open recreation area with a floating crab slide and a basketball hoop. A large shade-covered baby pool with zero depth entry is available seasonally. They also have vending and picnic areas.
8. Rock ‘N River Water Park
This massive park went through a multi-million dollar renovation in 2016 and doubled in size. Located in Old Settlers Park at 3300 Palm Valley Blvd. Visit Splashville, the Watering Hole, lazy river, tall slides, toddler swim, the Quarry or rent a family cabana for the day. There is also onsite food, a food truck circle or you can enjoy swim-up concessions in the pool. Children $8 and Adults $10. Season passes are available.
9. Volente Beach Water Park
Shore Club Volente Beach offers a wide-range of exciting rides the whole family will enjoy. The Pirate Ship is pirate themed play area where children can roam and explore. There is even a slide included on the ship. Gator’s Crossing offers a unique challenge where children must leap from one float to the next. For those who want to relax and soak up the sun, then the Lazy Lagoon is the perfect spot. The Lazy Lagoon features a waterfall fountain in the middle of the lagoon where guests can cool off if they get too hot. The Sidewinder is a fast-paced ride that is sure to give guests thrills. Located at 16107 FM 2769 in Leander.
10. Typhoon Texas
Previously Hawaiian Falls in Pflugerville, this is a dream play land for children with 7 different slides, more than 100 spray areas, splash pad playground and a massive, 800-gallon water bucket that douses the entire play area. Typhoon Texas is also adding a stimulating interactive splash play pad attraction that is sure to ensure a safe, kid friendly family water play experience. There is a wave pool and “snake pit” with three high-rise winding slides. There are also adventure and fitness activities if you prefer to stay dry as well as eight options for dining and snacks. Located at 18500 TX-130 North Service Road in Pflugerville.
11. Summer Fun Water Park
If you prefer to drive north, away from traffic, visit this 7-acre amusement spot at 1410 Waco Rd in Belton. (photo top) Enjoy a 900-ft. slide, a lazy river, pools, snacks and pavilions. Children under 3 years old are only allowed in the kiddie pool so maybe not the place if you want to take baby on a ride with you. There are concessions on site but you can bring your own coolers and eats. Child $12.50, adults $15.50 and they have reduced late-day pricing.
