Day Trips
By Gerald E. McLeod, Fri., July 18, 2003
Two Blue Holes sit on either side of Austin. One is to the north, a few blocks from downtown Georgetown, and the other is to the south of Austin on the edge of Wimberley. Fine swimming holes both, but each different and special in its own way.
Which of the Austin-area Blue Holes is best depends upon what you are looking for in a swimming hole.
Blue Hole, Georgetown: About seven blocks north of downtown, this swimming hole takes up a large area in the bend of the South San Gabriel River. One side of the river is a high, limestone cliff, while the other side is a steep hillside covered with oak trees and picnic tables.
A 10-foot-tall dam creates a lake that is close to 50 yards wide and deep enough for brave souls to jump into the water from the cliffs. Water going over and around the dam fills a smaller pool formed by a second dam. Below the second dam, the river turns into a stream again that small children can wade through.
The city of Georgetown has made improvements to this park without altering the natural beauty. One block west of Austin Avenue, Rock Street turns into a one-way street that circles near the water's edge. Parking is along the street outside of the park or in a small lot at the top of the hill.
There is no fee for using the Georgetown park. Police surveillance is regular but for the most part not intrusive. No glass bottles are allowed in the park, and pets must be on a leash.
Blue Hole, Wimberley: Swimmers have been going to this privately owned park for generations. Cypress Creek starts at ankle deep and gets progressively deeper and wider. The channel is lined with towering cypress trees with two rope swings hanging from the branches.
There is plenty of flat, dry space in the shade to enjoy away from the cold water. Campsites are available with or without utilities on the bluff above the creek. Day-use parking is in a lot near the office and carts are available to help transport gear to the water's edge.
Use of the park is limited to members, but memberships range from a trial or one-day pass for $5 to a seasonal membership for $50 plus usage fees. Glass and pets are not permitted in the park. On the north side of Wimberley off FM 3237, turn onto Old Kyle Road at the Baptist Church and then take Blue Hole Lane north between the church and the cemetery. The creek is open to swimmers Monday through Saturday, 9am-7pm; and Sunday, 10am-6pm. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or present a signed release form. For more information, call 512/847-9127.
632nd in a series. Day Trips, Vol. 2, a book of Day Trips 101-200, is available for $8.95, plus $3.05 for shipping, handling, and tax. Mail to: Day Trips, PO Box 33284, South Austin, TX 78704.
