Hamilton Pool Preserve

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Waterfall Trickling during 2006 Drought

Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural pool that was created when the dome of an underground river collapsed due to massive erosion thousands of years ago. The pool is located about 23 miles (37 km) west of Austin, Texas off of Highway 71 and supports recreational opportunities such as picnicking, hiking, swimming and nature study. One of the most outstanding features of the pool is its 45 foot (14 m) waterfall that spills from the dome above. The preserve is home to some small fish and turtles, which are protected by strict regulation.

[edit] History

Prior to becoming a state park Hamilton's Pool was privately held land. A local land owner permitted visitors to access the pool and dome and the forested riverbed which leads to the Pedernales River below the pool. Visitors were able to get a unique view of the pool along the top of the dome and then hike down into the pool. Stories were often shared of local college students who dove from the top of the dome into the pool. Today visitors are no longer permitted on top of the dome.