Crowd-Free Swimming

When the high Texas temperatures roll in, the last thing you want to do is wait to cool off due to too many people. Nobody enjoys a packed shoreline or a swimming spot where everyone is fighting for the only patch of shade available. Instead, why not try some quiet coves and rocky riverbanks to soak up the Texas heat the right way? Let’s show you what we’ve got along the lower Colorado River.

If your ideal summer day includes sandy shores with wide-open water, head to Black Rock Park on Lake Buchanan. Tucked away near Kingsland, Texas, this family-friendly destination features a protected cove that's ideal for swimming, floating and letting the kiddos splash around. After you've cooled off, play a few rounds of mini golf or sand volleyball. No matter where you are in the park, you always have a great lake view!

Does your car dashboard read 100+ degrees? Then, there’s only one swimming spot you need to go, and that’s Jessica Hollis Park. Home to the ‘coldest water in Austin,’ this park resides just below Mansfield Dam on Lake Austin. Since the deep dam water has not yet been warmed by the sun, it stays refreshingly chilly and crystal clear even during the hottest days of summer. Reserve a shaded picnic table, unpack lunch and make a full day of it. If needing a watercraft, rent one onsite from Love and Boat or Greenbelt Outdoors.

Lastly, there is a spot east of Austin that gives you “floating the river” vibes without bumping tubes with total strangers. Plum Park on the Colorado, located just outside of La Grange, Texas, is where you'll find rocky riverbeds ready for relaxing (say that five times fast). Spend the afternoon floating the Colorado River or even skipping rocks along the shoreline. Who knows - this peaceful park could be considered your next hidden gem.

Even though water is on all of our agendas, you don’t have to get out before dawn to enjoy it without the crowds. Grab the sunscreen and come make a splash somewhere new at LCRA Parks.