When hanging in Austin Texas we recommend you drive outside the city and take a short hike down to Hamilton Pool Preserve. The preserve's pool and grotto were formed when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago. We met up with fellow RVer's that were camping in the area. It's really cool finding other young people on the road living full time in their RV's. Here's a glimpse into our day of exploring....
WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND CALLING BEFORE YOU GO! They often close the trails if it's been raining.......
What To Know Before You Go: (From the park website)
- Calling the Public Information Line will let you know the current status of the preserve, whether we're allowing swimming and hiking. Remember the preserve somtimes closes due to recent rain and hazardous trail conditions. The phone number is 512-264-2740. It is updated daily at 8:30 am, or when rain changes our status during the day.
- Reservations are required to visit on dates starting May 1 and ending September 30. You make reservations online by clicking on the link shown above on this web site. You will pay for reservations with a credit card, and pay an additional entrance fee in cash when you arrive at Hamilton Pool Preserve.
- Entrance Fees paid when you arrive at the preserve are $15 per vehicle, or $5 per vehicle if vehicle has a senior citizen (62 years) or a disabled vet (60%).
- We accept cash and most checks at the preserve. We DO NOT accept credit and debit cards at the preserve.
- Pets are prohibited. No exceptions, not even if the pet is on a leash or kept in your vehicle. Please do not bring them.
- No Lifeguard is on duty. Swim at your own risk, when swimming is allowed.
- Reservation periods run from 9 am - 1 pm and 2 pm - 6 pm. Recreational activities end at 12:30 pm and 5:30 pm. No entry is allowed after 12:30 pm or 5:30 pm. All visitors must exit the preserve by 1:00 pm or 6:00 pm.
- Bring drinking water. Drinking water and concessions are not available.
- The hike to the pool is a quarter of a mile long. The trail is beautiful, but it is also steep and rocky, with uneven steps.
- Glass bottles and the public display of alcohol consumption are prohibited.