Summer is the best time to visit this cool natural swimming hole and nature preserve. Just 20 miles west of Austin, this pretty pool was once underground ‘til the limestone roof above it fell. It’s fed by a rushing 50-foot waterfall.
The preserve is managed by the Balcones Canyonlands Conservation Plan. The pool itself has become more popular recently, so make reservations in advance. Visitors are limited in order to protect the entire canyon.
The Ohiopyle State Park spans 19,052 acres in Fayette County, Stewart, Dunbar, and Henry Clay Townships. Also known as a convenient gateway to the lovely Laurel Highlands, some travelers say the big attraction here is the mighty Youghiogheny River Gorge. Thrillseekers enjoy riding one of two natural water slides at Meadow Run. If you need more excitement, sign on for a wet and wild whitewater boating trip down the “Yough.”