When the Texas sun turns up the heat, there’s only one surefire way to keep your cool: head for the water. From spring-fed rivers to scenic lakeshores, our state is full of splash-worthy destinations perfect for summer escapes, and many of the best spots are not that far away. Whether you’re tubing, paddling, swimming, or just soaking up the vibe with your feet in the shallows, these wet-and-wild getaways offer the ultimate way to beat the heat.
So come along! We’re diving into some of the best spots in the Lone Star State where the only thing higher than the temperatures is the fun. Grab your sunnies, because you’re going to need them!
Seguin
Head east to Seguin and you’ll find a place where the Guadalupe River keeps things cool and quirky. Rent a cabana at Son’s Island, with hammocks, paddleboards, and tiki vibes to bring tropical energy to those South-Central Texas days. Need more waves? The Seguin Wave Pool has you covered with a 15,000-square-foot splash zone perfect for kids and grown-ups alike. Then kick up the thrill at ZDT’s Amusement Park, a family-owned gem packed with water rides, go-karts, and one seriously wild wooden coaster. And don’t leave town without a photo op at the courthouse square’s most legendary resident: the World’s Largest Pecan. It’s a nutty must-see in the heart of a town where adventure flows as freely as the river!
sonsisland.com | seguintexas.gov | zdtamusement.com
Leakey
Leakey is the kind of Hill Country town where summer days are made for the river and nights are made for the stars. Float the crystal-clear Frio River with help from Josh’s Frio River Outfitters, your one-stop shop for gear, tubes, and river wisdom. Then set up camp—or kick back in a cabin—at nearby Garner State Park, a beloved Texas destination known for its cool swimming holes, scenic hikes, and legendary jukebox dances under the pavilion. Refuel with a juicy burger at Gypsy Sally’s, a laid-back spot with porch seating and cold drinks. And when the sun dips below the hills, don’t head inside. Leakey is home to some of the best stargazing in the state. Head to Frio Canyon Park for an open view—or just plop a lawn chair in your front yard and look up.
frioriveroutfitter.com | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/garner | gypsysallysleakey.com
Wimberly
It’s Hill Country summer magic with plenty of splash. Start your stay at 7A Ranch, where riverside cabins, retro lodges, and a quirky pioneer village set the scene. Tube or kayak the Blanco River, then wander into town—or back in time. Want more river? Head to Tube Haus in nearby Canyon Lake and float the iconic Horseshoe Loop of the Guadalupe, beer in hand, breeze in your hair. Don’t miss a dip in the shimmering waters of Blue Hole Regional Park, a reservation-only swimming gem framed by shady cypress trees. Or take a quiet walk through Cypress Falls Nature Trail, where trails, swimming spots, and natural beauty offer a slower pace and a peaceful reset.
7aranch.co | tubehaus.com | wimberleyparksandrec.com/blue-hole-regional-park | wimberleyparksandrec.com/cypress-creek-nature-trail-preserve
Ingram
This place is summer fun with a splash of Texas charm. Start your stay at Jellystone Park, where riverside cabins, RV hookups, waterslides, and Yogi Bear make for a kid-approved adventure. Cool off at Ingram Lake, where you can kayak, fish, or slide down the algae-slick Ingram Dam—a local rite of passage. Ready for a hike? Head to Lost Maples State Natural Area for shady trails, cliffside views, and a peaceful slice of Hill Country beauty. Cap off your day in Hunt at the legendary Crider’s Dance Hall and Rodeo, where the stars come out and so do the two-steppers. This summer marks their 100th season—don’t miss it!
jellystoneguadalupe.com | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lost-maples | cridersrandd.com
Marble Falls
Long days, lake dips, and pie for breakfast? Yes, please. Marble Falls serves up everything we love about summer in Texas. Splash around at Black Rock Park on Lake Buchanan, where you can swim, fish, kayak, or just grill the day away. Just down the road, Inks Lake State Park brings the fun with paddleboarding, boating, and camping—plus a wake-free zone for smooth summer cruising. Want something quieter? Camp Creek Park keeps it low-key with a cozy, kid-friendly setup. And don’t even think about leaving without hitting up the Blue Bonnet Cafe, where the pies are legendary and breakfast is an all-day affair.
lcraparks.com/parks/black-rock-park | tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/inks-lake | lcraparks.com/parks/camp-creek-park | bluebonnetcafe.net