We love the Texas Hill Country, but we’re also honest – sometimes a little water fun is necessary when those summer temperatures keep climbing! 

We want to ensure you have great options for water fun when you come into town, so you can cool off during your explorations. From splashing on limestone shelves to fishing our river, there’s plenty of fun to be had in the water around town. 

Here are some of the best places to enjoy the water and cool off in and around Johnson City.

Explore Pedernales Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is one of the most iconic outdoor destinations in Texas. It’s a beautiful place to hike and explore, and a favorite for families who want some fun water adventures as part of their getaway. 

You can enjoy a view of the falls, which is a must for photos. In addition, you can take a short ¼ mile hike to reach the river’s swimming area, a perfect option for splashing, tubing, swimming and wading. 

A few tips for your explorations: 

• Use caution and pay attention to weather alerts when visiting the park as conditions can change quickly.
• Wear water shoes for comfort and safety. 
• The hike to the swimming area, though short, can be challenging and there are no handrails.  

Discover Pedernales River Nature Park

Pedernales River Nature Park is local gem that’s perfect for fishing, birdwatching, nature walks, picnicking and more. 

It’s a fun place to swim, splash and cool off. You can also bring your kayaks and launch from the river side. There is a small fee (payable to the Lower Colorado River Authority) for access to the park, but it’s well worth it because of the easy access. Fishing enthusiasts especially appreciate the easy water access and convenient proximity to town. 

Spend the Day at the Johnson City Pool

Nothing says old-fashioned summer like a day at the pool. If you’re in town for a long weekend and the kids need a chance to cool off, drop by the Johnson City Pool for a swim and a splash. It’s a super-affordable way (typically only a couple of dollars per person) to spend an afternoon letting the kids burn some steam before grabbing a delicious dinner around town. 

Take a Day Trip to Blanco State Park

Blanco State Park is a small state park where the water is the key focus. The park hugs a one-mile stretch of riverfront and is an ideal place for fishing for largemouth and Guadalupe bass, channel catfish, sunfish and rainbow trout. TPWD also stocks the river with trout in the winter. 

And, as a bonus, you can borrow fishing gear from the park office, so you don’t have to worry about bringing your own along with your other vacation gears. 

Enjoy Some Stargazing from Your Short-Term Rental

Many of our Johnson City short-term vacation rentals also include hot tubs or other water options. What a great place to spend a beautiful starry night, outside enjoying a relaxing dip in the water! 

Water Adventures Within an Hour of Johnson City

Johnson City is often called the gateway to the Texas Hill Country, and there’s no better spot for setting up a base camp and exploring the surrounding area. In less than an hour, you can enjoy a wide variety of water adventures, then head back to centrally located Johnson City for dinner at a local restaurant and to plan your next day of exploration. 

• Krause Springs (Spicewood) – Hill Country swimming hole featuring natural springs, waterfalls, and a swimming pool.
• Jacob’s Well Natural Area (Wimberley) – Famous artesian spring. Check online guidance before visiting as the water levels have been low and swimming may not be available. 
• Cypress Falls Swimming Hole (Wimberley) – A family-friendly destination with river access and paddle sport rentals.
• Inks Lake State Park – Beautiful lake with options for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and more. 
• Lake LBJ (Kingsland and Horseshoe Bay) – One of the Hill Country’s most popular lakes for boating and water sports.

Whether you’re casting a line at Pedernales River Nature Park, exploring one of the iconic Texas State Parks or just cooling off beside the river, bring a swimsuit and head over to Johnson City. We promise plenty of wonderful ways to cool off and enjoy being outdoors and in the water.