Plunge into paradise at Krause Springs in Spicewood
A visit to Krause Springs in Spicewood is one of the best ways to cool off a hot Texas summer in the Highland Lakes of Burnet County. Towering oak trees line the drive, while gentle cows and longhorns in a neighboring field observe your entry. From March through June, the long entryway is carpeted with bright wildflowers, and, in all seasons, the fresh water bubbling up from underground will cool you completely at a Highland Lakes destination that delights.
Krause (pronounced Crou-see) Springs is more than a swimming hole. It boasts a gorgeous butterfly garden near the entry, a manmade, spring-fed pool, and a natural springs swimming area. Guests can enjoy tent and RV camping and picnic at incredible stone masonry benches, tables, and pavilions across the 115 acres, which has 32 natural springs.
Before you jump — or ease your way — into the delightfully cool, 68-degree water, you can have a picnic in one of the unique gazebos or on a bench in the lusciously green garden. The huge variety of plant life, fountains, statues, and wind chimes provides an enchanting symphony of resonance in the serene park.
Once you enter the paid gate, a short walk down a path will lead you to the manmade pool. The deep concrete rectangle collects water at the convergence of springs. The water runs through it to flow out the other side as a waterfall over the spring-fed pond below. Freshwater is always on the move in this invigorating space!
A steep walk down metal steps takes you to the natural Krause Springs swimming hole, nestled against a mossy cliff. As you step off of the stairs, it becomes slippery, so water shoes are highly recommended.
Huge 1,000-year-old cypress trees provide a dappling shade over part of the water. Large slabs of rock slope into the springs providing an awesome spot for sunbathing. For the adventurous, a rope swing dangles from one of the cypress trees. It takes more than one person to use the swing as someone needs to be in the water to toss the rope to the jumping spot and another on the bank to catch it.
You can sit on the stones close to the water and let the delightfully cool springs run over your legs. Jump in and explore the cave under the waterfall. Flotation devices are allowed; bring your own.
The springs are always flowing, so the park stays open during drought or after rainfall.
Privately owned and operated by the Krause family since 1955, the springs are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Camping options available at Krause Springs include shady spots for your tent or RV with 24 hookups available by reservation. Tent camping is first come, first served. Several common areas provide a space to hang out with fellow campers and public restrooms, showers, picnic tables, barbecue grills, and grassy areas.
Open 9 a.m.-8 p.m. daily, mid-February through mid-November, admission fees are $9 for ages 12 and older and $5 for ages 5-11. Kids 4 and younger get in free. Pets are not allowed. Krause Springs is located at 424 County Road 404 in Spicewood. Call 401-236-7554.
