With summer right around the corner, Houston’s ready to heat up. Sweltering triple-digit temperatures and oppressive humidity swallow the city whole, which means it’s time to find some relief. Thankfully, Houston is within close proximity to some of Texas’ top swimming holes. From natural spring-fed pools to rivers to lakes, one dip is all you need to ward off the blistering summer heat.
Huntsville State Park
Located 65 miles north of Houston, Huntsville State Park is one of the closest rural watering holes, requiring you only to get out of the city and urban sprawl before you take a dip. The 210-acre Lake Raven is where you can pop on your bathing suit and splash away between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. in the park’s designated swimming area. Make a weekend out of it by renting one of 160 powered or unpowered campsites. Other activities include fishing, boating, and hiking.
Matagorda Bay Nature Park
Matagorda Bay is one of the more interesting places to go for a swim in Texas. Located just under two hours south of Houston, this bay is where the Colorado River ends its 1,450-mile journey and empties into the Gulf of Mexico. At the Matagorda Bay Nature Park, you’re spoiled for choice as far as swimming. Two miles of beachfront sand on the Gulf of Mexico provides excellent swimming and oftentimes, you’ll find waves to splash around in.
If you’re searching for more calm, cool waters, take a dip in the Colorado River. Often a bit chillier than its vast ocean neighbor, the river is smooth and relaxing, allowing you to float down or stand, enjoy the coolness, and sip a beverage. Camping is available for one day or long weekends.
Quintana Beach County Park
Zip on down State Highway 288 south for 60 miles, and you’ll find yourself within the comfortable confines of Quintana Beach County Park. Named the Houston Press “Top Swimming Spot” in 2013, this county park provides long stretches of unspoiled beach, uncombed and untouched by workers (other than to pick up trash), giving beachcombers the chance to find driftwood and shells with ease.
What makes Quintana Beach County Park the top swimming hole is its privateness. Away from the crowds that overrun Galveston, you can enjoy the beach by yourself or with only a handful of others. Plus, the water is a bit bluer her, offering plenty of photo-ops.
Sea Rim State Park
Located 100 miles east of downtown Houston, Sea Rim State Park is another lightly visited swimming area on the Gulf Coast. Over 4,000 acres of marshlands cover the park (as well as alligators), but it’s the 5.2-mile stretch of golden sands that attract most visitors. The pristine beach offers stunning panoramic views, a great place to take a dip, and no crowds. You can also rent a kayak or canoe and take in the scenery from an ocean perspective.
With so many different swimming options near Houston, the most difficult part isn’t getting there; it’s deciding where to go first. Once you’ve decided that, you’re on your way to a relaxing cool-down you’ll want to experience all summer long.
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