Balmorhea State Park
A breathtaking desert oasis in West Texas featuring the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, offering year-round cool waters and unique diving op...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more pool space
Balmorhea State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more pool space
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking desert oasis in West Texas featuring the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool, offering year-round cool waters and unique diving opportunities.
"This desert gem is an absolute must-visit for its crystal-clear, refreshing pool and unique West Texas charm."
Book Day Passes Online
Secure your spot by reserving day passes in advance, especially for weekends and holidays .
Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear water and abundant fish make snorkeling a must-do activity .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Giant Spring-Fed Pool
San Solomon Springs
A 1.75-acre oasis with crystal-clear, 72-76°F water year-round. Perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
Scuba Diving Haven
San Solomon Springs
Explore the underwater world with excellent visibility. Affordable dive fees make it a unique desert diving experience .
Calera Chapel
Near the park entrance
A charming, historic chapel offering a peaceful moment and a glimpse into the area's past.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Desert Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Day Passes Online
Secure your spot by reserving day passes in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear water and abundant fish make snorkeling a must-do activity.
Pack for Remote Location
Stock up on food, water, and essentials as stores are far away.
Cooler Friendly (No Glass!)
Bring your own food and drinks, but remember to leave glass containers at home.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Day Passes Online
Secure your spot by reserving day passes in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
Bring Snorkel Gear
The clear water and abundant fish make snorkeling a must-do activity.
Pack for Remote Location
Stock up on food, water, and essentials as stores are far away.
Cooler Friendly (No Glass!)
Bring your own food and drinks, but remember to leave glass containers at home.
Embrace the Desert Flies
Camping can be challenging due to flies; consider bringing extra repellent or traps.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Balmorhea State Park as a stunning desert oasis, highlighting the crystal-clear, year-round swimming pool as its main draw. The park is lauded for its refreshing water, abundant fish, and affordability, making it a perfect stop for relaxation and recreation. However, some campers note challenges with flies and the remoteness requiring extensive preparation for supplies.
"We stayed two nights in our RV. We made reservations months ahead, which is always suggested. Checking in was a breeze. If you arrive after 5, you can still get in. If you arrive after 8pm, the gate will be locked. THIS STATE PARK has the best sites we've seen in ,4 years of full time rving. Nice, flat, paved areas. Most have a wonderful coveted picnic area. There are both pull thrus and back in sites. The CCC helped build the park in the 30s... San Salomen Springs comes thru the park.. The CCC made a huge pool, enclosed it in a big "U Shape"... Yes, there are small fish in the pool, as well as the river that drains off it. The water is crystal clear, and in late November, the temp was about 75°... Not hot, but not cold- a 'warm'... There's a modest store in the check in point, but it's mainly souvenir based... All sites have water and electric- there's a good dump station at one end, with plenty of room to get your rig ready to dump. At 20.00/ night plus 7.00/person, it's very affordable too .. All in all, this park gets. 9.75/10... Nearly perfect."
peter pinkham
"Wonderful campground with a huge swimming area fed by the springs. Water was crystal clear and had lots of fish and turtles. It's refreshing at 72 degrees and perfect for a hot summer day. The pool area is over an acre so it's huge! Perfect place to relax and recharge. Staff were friendly and helpful. Already looking forward to my next visit!"
Chris Hudson
"Theyve just absolutely nailed it with this state park! I checked in with the lovely Sarah. So
Patient, courteous and helpful, exactly what you'd expect from a Texas state park. She was just helpful from the beginning and once I checked in OMG! This part is amazing. The place itself is small but friendly and the springs you swim in are absolutely amazing. Well done, especially you Sarah. You made my day!"
Jill and James Noble
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Balmorhea State Park is located in West Texas, approximately 2 hours from Odessa and Midland, and about 3.5 hours from El Paso. It's situated off Highway 17. The closest major towns are Toyahvale and Balmorhea. Many visitors find it a convenient stop on a road trip through West Texas.
Public transportation options are very limited in this remote West Texas region. It is highly recommended to have your own vehicle for reaching and exploring Balmorhea State Park and the surrounding areas.
From I-10, take exit 206 for US-285 North towards Carlsbad. Continue on US-285 N for about 20 miles, then turn left onto TX-17 W. Follow TX-17 W for approximately 30 miles, and the park entrance will be on your right. Always check current road conditions before your trip.
Balmorhea State Park is roughly 3.5 hours from El Paso, 2 hours from Midland/Odessa, and about 4 hours from San Antonio. Its remote location is part of its charm as a desert oasis.
Yes, you can drive to the park and access the pool area. There is parking available near the pool. You can also bring a cooler to the pool area, but remember no glass is allowed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The day-use entrance fee is $7 per person for ages 13 and up. Children 12 and under are free. It's highly recommended to reserve your day passes online in advance through the Texas State Parks reservation system, as the park can reach capacity.
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, especially for day passes and camping. The park often reaches capacity, and booking online in advance ensures your entry.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Texas State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on park hours and any potential closures before your visit.
Yes, in addition to the day-use fee, there is a separate fee for scuba diving, which is typically around $5 per person. This makes it an affordable option for divers looking for unique experiences.
If you have made after-hours camping reservations, instructions and gate codes are usually provided, making after-hours entry possible. For day use, ensure you arrive within operating hours.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the massive spring-fed swimming pool, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. You can also enjoy picnicking, camping, and exploring the nearby Calera Chapel.+1
Yes, the pool is fed by San Solomon Springs, which maintain a constant temperature of 72-76°F year-round, making it suitable for swimming even in cooler months.+1
The pool is home to various species of fish, including catfish and other native species, which you can observe while swimming or snorkeling.
Yes, the park features multiple diving boards, including a high dive, for those looking for a bit more excitement in the water.
Absolutely! Balmorhea is renowned for its clear waters and affordable dive fees, making it a prime spot for scuba divers, especially those landlocked in Texas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Balmorhea State Park. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. The nearest dining options are in the towns of Balmorhea or Toyahvale, which are a short drive away.
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks. Coolers are allowed, but remember that glass containers are prohibited.
The closest dining options are in the small towns of Balmorhea and Toyahvale. For more variety, you might need to drive to larger towns like Fort Stockton (about 35 minutes away) or Pecos (about 1 hour away).
Grocery stores are not conveniently located near the park. The nearest significant grocery shopping is about 50 minutes away in Fort Stockton or Pecos. It's best to stock up on supplies before you arrive.
Yes, Balmorhea State Park offers picnic tables, making it a great spot to enjoy a meal outdoors. Many visitors combine picnicking with a day of swimming.
📸 📸 Photography
The crystal-clear pool itself is a stunning subject, especially with the desert landscape as a backdrop. The Calera Chapel offers a picturesque, historic element. Sunrise and sunset can also provide beautiful light over the desert scenery.
Yes, with its excellent visibility, Balmorhea State Park is ideal for underwater photography and videography, especially if you're interested in capturing the fish and aquatic life.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the pool. Late afternoons can provide dramatic desert light for landscape shots. Golden hour before sunset is also spectacular.
Drone usage is typically restricted in Texas State Parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Always check the park's specific regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
A waterproof camera or action camera like a GoPro is excellent for capturing activities in the pool. For landscape shots, a wide-angle lens can be beneficial. Don't forget extra batteries, as the desert sun can drain them quickly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the main draw is the pool, the abundance of fish in the clear water can also be a source of fascination for younger visitors. Consider bringing snorkeling masks for the kids to explore the underwater world. For families camping, be mindful of the flies and plan activities that can be enjoyed even if bug issues arise. The overall experience is one of a unique desert oasis that offers a refreshing break for the whole family.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
For day-trippers, arriving early is recommended to maximize your time and enjoy the pool before it gets too crowded. Pack a cooler with lunch and drinks, as dining options are limited nearby. Don't forget your swim gear and a towel! Even a short visit to this desert oasis can be a memorable highlight of your journey.
💰 Budget Travelers
For those interested in scuba diving, the park's affordable dive fees make it an accessible option for trying out the sport or getting in some practice. Compared to other diving destinations, Balmorhea offers a significant cost saving while still providing a high-quality experience. It's a prime example of how Texas State Parks offer incredible natural beauty and recreational opportunities at an accessible price point.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Spring-Fed Pool
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities within the pool, from leisurely swimming and floating to more adventurous pursuits like snorkeling and scuba diving. The park even features multiple diving boards, including a high dive, adding an element of fun for thrill-seekers.
The pool area is surrounded by landscaping and trees, offering shaded spots for picnics and a pleasant atmosphere to escape the West Texas heat. It's truly a unique aquatic experience in an unexpected desert setting.Planning your pool visit is key. While the water is always inviting, weekdays and early mornings offer a more serene experience with fewer crowds. Remember to book your day passes online in advance, as the park can reach capacity. Bringing your own snorkel gear is highly recommended to fully appreciate the underwater life.
Scuba Diving in the Desert
The consistent water temperature of 72-76°F means divers can comfortably explore the underwater environment year-round.The park offers affordable dive fees, making it an accessible adventure for many. Divers can explore the pool's depths, observe the various fish species that inhabit the springs, and experience the tranquility of an underwater world. It's a chance to practice skills or simply enjoy a unique diving experience that's hard to find elsewhere.
Tips for divers: Ensure you have your certification and necessary gear. The park's website or visitor center can provide information on any specific dive site regulations. Remember to book your entry and dive fees in advance, especially during busy periods. The clarity of the water makes it a fantastic spot for underwater photography as well.
Camping and Amenities
While the park provides a peaceful retreat, it's important to be prepared for its remote location. Grocery stores and extensive dining options are a considerable drive away, so stocking up on supplies before arrival is crucial.
Amenities include clean restrooms and showers with hot water, ensuring a comfortable camping experience. The park staff are often noted for their friendliness and helpfulness, contributing to a positive visitor experience.
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