When the Texas sun starts roasting the sidewalks and the forecast reads more like a dare than a prediction, there’s only one thing to do: grab your dog, pack a towel, and head south to one of the area’s most beloved, unofficial dog pools — Barkin’ Springs.
Yes, Barkin’ Springs is dog-friendly and makes our curated list of the best dog-friendly places in Austin. Located just downstream from the popular Barton Springs Pool, Barkin’ Springs offers a free, natural swimming area where dogs and their humans can cool off together. This spot is a local favorite, especially during the hot Texas summers, attracting a lively crowd of college students, families, and plenty of pups. The water here stays at a refreshing 68 degrees, making it the ultimate escape from the heat.
The Scene
If you’ve never been, picture this: crystal-clear creek water flowing over smooth limestone ledges, shaded by towering pecan trees and framed by the greenbelt’s lush banks. You’ll hear the echo of excited barks before you even catch a glimpse of the water. As you make your way down the trail, the scene opens up to dozens of dogs darting in and out of the water, chasing tennis balls and making new best friends. Humans lounge on the rocky banks, some perched on towels, others half-submerged to keep cool, all sporting that easygoing Austin spirit.
Unlike its neighbor, Barton Springs Pool—which is human-only and requires an entry fee—Barkin’ Springs is free and open to all. The shared spring-fed water makes it a canine and human haven during the Dog Days of August.
Bring Your Sense of Humor (and a Towel)
Visiting Barkin’ Springs is not for the faint of heart or the clean freak. Expect to get splashed (possibly multiple times), lose track of your towel under a new dog friend, and witness spontaneous games of chase that may involve your water bottle. But that’s the fun—it’s unstructured, unscripted, and full of happy surprises…