Austin Texas Region Natural Areas and Swimming Holes
I have always loved Austin area creeks and natural areas. Part of what makes Central Texas and the Texas Hill Country so wonderful is that there will be arrid looking rocky areas alongside great stands of trees and running cool, clear water, perhaps fed from springs. I am a member of many hiking and birding and horseback riding groups because I love to be outside and enjoy those activities. You may want to know about these areas for recreation and perhaps to buy a home or ranch with or near to a great hiking or swimming area. There are many homes and condos in the Austin Area next to greenbelts and parks.
Growing up tubing down Texas Rivers, wading in creeks and streams and swimming in lakes, ranch stock tanks, rivers, bays and The Gulf of Mexico, I am happy we have so many great natural swimming holes with non-treated, non-chlorinated water. Barton Springs, Deep Eddy, Hamilton Pool, Blue Hole in Georgetown, TX and Blue Hole in Wimberley, TX are some of my favorites.
Wild Basin on east side of Loop 360 at 805 North Capital of Texas Highway, Austin, TX 78746 (512) 327-7622 has over 3 miles of hiking trails. Founded in 1974 the 227 acre Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve provides educational programs as well. My family has been there for reptile and amphibian and astronomy events.
Zilker Nature Preserve at 2418 Stratford Drive, Austin on the west end of Zilker Park is 60 acres of meadows, trees with hanging Spanish moss in shaded woods, view of downtown Austin's skyscrapers from Overlook Trail. Trailhead is located at end of Austin Nature Center driveway.
I am a member of the Austin Sierra Club, Austin Hikes for Creative Types.
See the City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department web page for more places to see.
