You’ve probably explored a lot of what Texas is known for—big cities, BBQ, bluebonnet fields, and maybe even a few swimming holes.
But hidden deep in the Hill Country is a crystal-clear waterfall most people have never heard of.
It is surrounded by giant trees, framed by mossy rocks, and its water is so cool that it’ll make you forget it’s 100 degrees outside.
This is the kind of secret spot that makes you wonder how it managed to stay under the radar.
Ready to discover the secret? Keep reading because this hidden gem is the real deal.
Where Is It?
Krause Springs sits in the tiny town of Spicewood, just a quick 50-minute drive from Austin.
From San Antonio, the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it an easy day trip.
If you are coming from Houston, it is closer to 3 hours and 10 minutes, so load up on snacks and turn it into a proper road trip.
About
Spread across 115 acres, Krause Springs has been owned by the Krause family for over 50 years and is open for the public to enjoy.
It’s a dreamy little slice of Hill Country filled with spring-fed pools, towering cypress trees, and postcard-perfect waterfalls.
In fact, 32 natural springs run through the property, and several of them feed into a large man-made pool above and a natural swimming hole down below.
The lower pool is the real highlight, cooled to about 68 degrees by a natural spring that flows over cliff-like rocks into a mossy grotto.
On a blazing Texas summer day, that icy water feels perfect.
Despite its beauty, Krause Springs isn’t a crowded tourist trap—it keeps a local, low-key vibe without flashy facilities getting in the way of the natural setting.
It’s rustic, peaceful, and is one of those under-the-radar Texas spots you’ll want to visit again and again.
Things To Do
Once you’ve taken in the views, you’ll find there’s plenty to do at Krause Springs, and the best place to start is with a swim.
At the top, you’ll find a spring-fed man-made pool that’s easy to wade into, but the natural pool below is where the magic really happens.
You can swing off the rope swing, float under the waterfall, lounge on the big rocks, or even slip into the small grotto behind the falls if you’re feeling adventurous.
If getting in the water isn’t your thing, you can stay dry and explore the grounds instead.
You can also stroll through the butterfly garden, which is loaded with native plants and buzzing with color in the spring and summer.
As you wander, you’ll hear wind chimes and fountains adding to the peaceful setting.
Want to make it more than a day trip? Krause Springs also offers camping on-site.
There are 24 RV sites with hookups and plenty of shaded tent spots, all set among towering oak trees and quiet trails.
You won’t find luxury amenities here, but you will get fire pits, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and plenty of space to unwind.
In the evenings, you might even find locals with guitars gathered near the pools or campsites, playing a few songs.
There’s no big crowds and no loud noise, instead just a mellow, unplugged kind of hangout.
Basically, whether you’re floating, swinging, picnicking, or camping, Krause Springs is all about slowing down and soaking it all in.
Know Before You Go
Now that you know why Krause Springs is worth the trip, here’s what you should know before you head out.
How to Get There:
Krause Springs is located at 424 County Road 404, Spicewood, TX 78669, United States.
It’s easiest to get there by car, as it’s just off Highway 71, and free parking is available on-site.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring through early fall (April to October) is the sweet spot.
That’s when the water feels amazing and the trees are full-on green and shady.
Summer gets hot (it’s Texas, after all), but that chilly spring water acts like nature’s built-in air conditioner.
Just keep in mind that summer weekends can get busy, so weekdays or early mornings are your best bet.
Hours:
Krause Springs is open daily from 9 AM to 8 PM for day use.
There’s no entry after 8 PM, so don’t plan on rolling in late for a sunset swim.
Pricing:
- Adults (12+): $10 for day use
- Kids (4–11): $6
- Under 4: Free
- Tent camping: $15 per adult, per night
- RV sites: $15 per adult plus $15 per site, per night
There are no online reservations for tent camping, so plan ahead because it’s first-come, first-served.
What to Bring:
- Water shoes for the slippery rocks
- Floatie or tube
- Snacks and drinks (no glass!)
- Cash because they don’t take cards
- A towel or two—one for drying off, one for lounging
- Bug spray and sunscreen
A few heads-ups:
There’s no lifeguard on duty, so swim at your own risk.
Pets are not allowed, so it’s better to leave the pups at home.
Wi-Fi isn’t available and cell service is pretty spotty, but that makes it the perfect unplugged escape.
Nearby stuff to check out:
Once you’ve wrapped up at the springs, make the short 10-minute drive to Opie’s Barbecue which is a local favorite with mouthwatering brisket.
You can also head over to Spicewood Vineyards for a glass of wine with a view.
And if you’ve got time to spare, Pace Bend Park is only 25 minutes down the road with cliffside lake scenery and even more hiking and swimming.
Basically, Krause Springs has it all, with plenty of nearby adventures that make every visit worth repeating.
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