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NatureBeaches, Lakes & Rivers

This Little-Known Dam Forms A Swimming Hole With The Most Crystal-Clear Water In Texas

Five Mile Dam Park in San Marcos offers pristine waters, nature trails, and picnic areas, making it one of the best swimming holes in Texas.

Updated Jul 6, 2023

Written by 

Katie Lawrence

Five Mile Dam Park in San Marco is just one of many places to go swimming in the Lone Star State. One of the best swimming holes in Texas, this hidden gem has pristine waters that tourists and locals alike visit time and time again.

Known as Five Mile Dam, this natural area features two separate parks that span 34 acres of riverfront land. Visitors can enjoy not only one of the best swimming holes in Texas but also picnic tables and enchanting nature trails.

A serene river scene with lush greenery and a house on a hill under a clear blue sky.
Tania Aoyama/Google Reviews

Take the Five Mile Dam Loop trail around the park for a leisurely 2.3-mile walk.

As you can see, there's never a dull moment in this crystal clear water in Texas. Locals and tourists alike can't get enough of the refreshing river, splashing about from morning 'til dusk throughout the warmer months.

A sandy area by a river with people swimming and relaxing under trees, enjoying a sunny day.
Scott Bass/Google Reviews

Beautiful white sand offers ample space for families to spread out and bask in the sunshine. Come prepared with snacks and tools for sandcastle building to keep the fun going all day long at Five Mile Dam.

A serene riverbank with a sandy shore, surrounded by greenery and trees under a clear blue sky.
Joshua Brake/Google Reviews

Swim closer to the dam itself if you're looking for a more exhilarating adventure. A mini waterfall picks up the current, but it never reaches a dangerous level of swiftness.

A serene river scene with a small waterfall, surrounded by lush greenery and a clear blue sky.
Travis Brown/Google Reviews

Bring your canoe or kayak for a peaceful, leisurely day of floating at one of the best swimming holes in Texas. Wildlife and lush vegetation abound, making the trip anything but boring.

A calm river scene with a kayak and paddle on the shore, surrounded by lush greenery and hills in the background.
Jaime Martinez/Google Reviews

That turquoise hue is truly something to marvel at, especially on a virtually cloudless summer day. This is really some of the most crystal clear water in Texas!

A serene river scene with clear water, lush green hills, and a bright blue sky dotted with fluffy clouds.
Jeremy B./Google Reviews



Take a quick peek at one of the best swimming holes in San Marcos at Five Mile Dam Park in this video from Jonathan Cutrer:

youtube embeded image

Head to the website for Five Mile Dam Park to learn more about this area. Or, check out AllTrails+ to find more hiking trails near the park.

Have you ever swam at Five Mile Dam in San Marcos? If so, don't hesitate to tell us all about how much of a blast it was!

Looking for more places to swim in Texas? Check out these 10 natural swimming holes in Texas.

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