Balmorhea State Park
State park
0.2 mi
4.6 (3025)
9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786
1.75-acre spring-fed swimming pool is the star of this 45-acre desert park that also offers lodging.
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomSwings
Spring-Fed PoolTX
Balmorhea State Park
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan Balmorhea swimming with timed day passes, pool rules, diving requirements and a four-photo gallery distinguishing wetlands from the pool.
Swimming restriction
No lifeguards. Under-15 swimmers require continuous supervision by a responsible adult older than 17. Annual cleaning interrupts year-round operation.
Official sources checked:
Water type
Spring-Fed Pool
Access
Designated area only
Fee
Park admission covers swimming; diving costs extra. Confirm current rates and pass availability with TPWD.
Best season
Choose an available entry slot
Nearby towns
Odessa, Pecos, Alpine
Water body
San Solomon Spring
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Odessa, Pecos, Alpine
Access location not verified
30.944350, -103.783258
Recorded coordinates have not been source-checked. Confirm the entrance and legal access before using directions.
A closer look
Photos of Balmorhea State Park
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Plan a Balmorhea swimming visit
The San Solomon Springs pool is the swimming destination; gallery wetland and channel views show separate park context. Start with TPWD's park page for admission, alerts and overnight options.
Book before the drive
Visitor FAQs explain timed passes, wristbands and parking. A photograph cannot establish today's opening or availability.
Check pool and diving rules
Read the swimming and diving guidance before entering. Do not rely on the former shallow-water, easy-access or certified-divers-only generalizations.
Getting There
Navigate to 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, and follow staff directions. Archived highway instructions are not revalidated. Retained coordinates are not a verified pool entry.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Reserve a timed day pass and collect the pool wristband at headquarters. Early entry is not allowed. Follow staff overflow-parking directions, never park on the highway.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
No lifeguards. Under-15 swimmers require continuous supervision by a responsible adult older than 17. Annual cleaning interrupts year-round operation. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Kinetik North Junction
Public bathroom
30.5 mi
7HG4+H6, Pecos, TX 79772
Parkside RV Base
Campground
34.8 mi
3.8 (215)
3100 Moore St, Pecos, TX 79772
Texas Department of Public Safety
Driver's license office
35.3 mi
4.1 (86)
148 North Frontage Road, Pecos, TX 79772
Restroom
Flying J Travel Center
Truck stop
36.1 mi
2.5 (309)
100 E Pinehurst St, Pecos, TX 79772
Wi-Fi
Korral RV Park
RV park
36.3 mi
4.7 (32)
151 Lincoln St, Pecos, TX 79772
Wi-Fi
Kings Road RV Park
Campground
37.1 mi
4.1 (233)
502 E 13th St, Pecos, TX 79772
Public restroomPublic showerRestroomRunning water
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Balmorhea State Park
Can I arrive before my entry slot?
No. TPWD requires entry at the purchased time; advance passes are recommended because capacity is limited.
Can I bring my dog or glass containers to the pool?
Neither is permitted in the pool area. Consult the visitor FAQ for rules outside the pool.
Is scuba limited to already-certified divers?
Individual divers require certification evidence and a buddy. Students may participate with qualified instructors under separate requirements.
Are gallery wetlands swimming areas?
The gallery distinguishes habitat context from the designated pool. Follow posted boundaries, not apparent access in photos.
Highlights
Spring-fed swimming pool
Historic park buildings
Wetland wildlife viewing
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- No all-skill-level guarantee
- Individual scuba divers need certification evidence, a buddy and a signed agreement; instructor-led students follow separate rules
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
CCC construction shaped the park in the 1930s.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Four reviewed views include pool and habitat context, not permission to swim in every pictured channel.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Do not feed, catch or handle wildlife.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Choose an available entry slot; check alerts and annual cleaning before travelling.
Difficulty Level
Swimming ability and water-entry needs vary; ask staff about suitable access.
Fee
Park admission covers swimming; diving costs extra. Confirm current rates and pass availability with TPWD.
Facilities
Restrooms close before the park. Changing rooms, showers and accessible pool entry not independently confirmed.
Activities
Swimming, Scuba Diving
Phone
432-375-2370 (park)
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Camping and San Solomon Springs Courts lodging offered; reserve separately.
Loading weather data…
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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