Outdoors

As temperatures begin to rise across Central Texas, the City of Austin is preparing for the 2026 swim season — and the impact reaches well beyond the Austin city limits.

Beginning Saturday, March 14, 2026, entry fees will go into effect at several City of Austin regional pools, including Barton Springs Pool, Deep Eddy Pool, Bartholomew Pool and Springwoods Pool. For families throughout the greater Austin area — from Round Rock and Cedar Park to Pflugerville, Buda and Kyle — these destinations remain some of the most recognized and beloved public swimming spots in Texas.

For many Central Texans, a visit to Barton Springs or Deep Eddy isn’t just a swim. It’s a tradition.

What Greater Austin Residents Should Know About Pool Entry Fees

While most Austin Parks and Recreation neighborhood pools remain free to enter, seasonal entry fees are charged March through October at select regional facilities: Bartholomew, Barton Springs, Deep Eddy, Springwoods, Northwest and Garrison pools.

Daily entry fees are structured for both residents and non-residents. City of Austin residents receive lower rates, while those living outside Austin city limits — including residents of surrounding communities — pay the non-resident rate.

Resident daily entry fees:

• $2 for children (1–11)
• $3 for juniors (12–17)
• $5 for adults (18–62)
• $2 for seniors (62+)

Non-resident rates are higher, with adult admission set at $9. Children under 1 year enter free. Honorably discharged veterans swim free, and senior residents age 80 and older qualify for a free season pass.

Big Stacy Pool and Colony Park Pool offer free entry year-round, providing additional options for families visiting from across the region.

For those planning multiple visits — especially to high-demand destinations like Barton Springs Pool and Deep Eddy Pool — a City of Austin season swim pass may offer convenience. Season passes are valid through October 31, 2026, and include parking at Zilker Park, where parking fees apply on holidays and weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

Passes can be purchased online at AustinTexas.gov/Pools or through the ATXswims mobile app.

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Visiting Barton Springs and Deep Eddy in 2026

Barton Springs Pool, located within Zilker Park, and Deep Eddy Pool, the oldest swimming pool in Texas, continue to draw visitors from across Central Texas and beyond.

For Barton Springs, visitors are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance through the ATXswims app, available in the Apple and Google app stores. Tickets activate upon arrival and remain valid for the day. On-site kiosks accept credit or debit cards and exact cash.

Other regional aquatic facilities allow ticket purchases at the entrance.

44 Public Aquatic Facilities Serving Central Texas

The Austin Parks and Recreation Aquatic Division operates 44 public aquatic facilities, including:

• 7 Regional pools
• 3 Community pools
• 22 Neighborhood pools
• 1 Wading pool
• Barton Springs Pool
• 10 splash pads

In addition to open swim, the Aquatic Division offers swim team programs, youth and adult swim lessons, water safety training and lifeguard certification.

Pools may close temporarily due to storms, mechanical issues or air temperatures at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Updates are posted at AustinTexas.gov/ParkClosures.

Residents throughout the greater Austin area can use the Parks Viewer tool to locate facilities and check operational details before visiting.

Lifeguard Hiring Now Underway at $22.05 Per Hour

As the 2026 swim season approaches, Austin Parks and Recreation is actively recruiting lifeguards starting at $22.05 per hour. Applicants must be at least 15 years old and complete hiring paperwork before registering for training.

Officials note that candidates from diverse backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to apply. Training is ongoing, including opportunities during spring break. More information is available at LifeguardAustin.com.

For teens and young adults across Central Texas, the positions offer both employment and the chance to serve thousands of swimmers who rely on Austin’s aquatic facilities each season.

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Planning Ahead for a Central Texas Summer Tradition

Season swim passes, punch cards and daily tickets are non-refundable and valid at all City of Austin pools during charging season. Family season passes are available, and replacement passes carry a $10 fee.

For many families living outside Austin city limits, iconic destinations like Barton Springs and Deep Eddy remain part of their summer rhythm — a place to cool off, gather with friends and introduce children to the city’s natural springs and historic pools.

As March 14 approaches, Austin Parks and Recreation is preparing for another busy season — one that welcomes not just Austin residents, but swimmers from across the greater Austin area.

For updates, hours and detailed fee information, visit AustinTexas.gov/Pools and stay tuned for the latest announcements as the 2026 swim season begins.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.