Below is good information to know before you head to Jacob's Well Natural Area. With a little planning and preparation, you will have a much more enjoyable visit!

Things to Know

• Jacob’s Well Natural Area is currently open to the public 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
• Reservations are required for water access at Jacob’s Well. (Note: swimming is currently canceled for the foreseeable future due to low water levels)
• No dogs, glass, alcohol, or drones are permitted in the natural area
• Visitors who just want to hike or take part in other nature area activities and amenities (other than swimming) do not need a reservation

Swimming

We are currently in an annual period of aquatic restoration which lasts from October 1–April 30. The cool clear water here makes Jacob’s Well a unique swimming destination in the Texas summer heat. However, the large number of visitors we receive during these months can be very disruptive to the wildlife that calls this area home. This is especially true of the aquatic wildlife of Cypress Creek. Therefore, we dedicate the chilly fall, winter, and spring months to habitat restoration. During this period, public swimming access is prohibited but we encourage visitors to come take a peaceful hike and observe the large variety of wildlife that is visible at this time.

Please note: Jacob's Well is normally open for swimming from May 1–September 30 by online reservation only. However, public swimming access in Jacob’s Well is contingent on precipitation and groundwater flow. The well's flow is currently at a level that is unsafe for swimming. As a result, swimming is canceled for the foreseeable future.

Click here to view USGS flow data

We will keep this website updated regarding public swim access. The best way to stay current is to visit the Hays County Parks Department Facebook page.

Not Planning To Swim?

There is no fee to park or enter the natural area. We offer hiking, birding, picnicking, geocaching, photography and viewing the spring are permitted within park hours, with no reservation needed. You can also visit our education center! Jacob's Well also offers guided tours. Visit Learn More About the Park for additional information.

Entrance for hiking and viewing the spring is not guaranteed outside of the recommended hiking hours. This is based on park capacity. We strongly recommend visiting the park during our recommended hiking hours to beat the heat and crowds.

Recommended Hiking Hours: 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. every day

Tips for Visiting

• Bring plenty of water.
• Swim at Your Own Risk – there is no lifeguard on duty.
• Know your limits – temperatures often reach 95 to 100°F over the summer months.
• Accommodations can be provided to those who need assistance reaching the well. Please let an employee know upon arrival if you require this extra assistance.
• Wear appropriate footwear – there will be a 15-minute hike to Jacob’s Well from the parking lot and the area surrounding the well can be steep and slippery.
• The walk down to Jacob’s Well is not stroller friendly and does involve several sets of stairs – you may want to consider leaving strollers in the car.
• You are welcome to bring snacks or a picnic – Jacob’s Well Natural Area does not provide any food. Coolers are allowed but there is not much space for large coolers near the well. Picnic tables are located throughout the park.
• Due to the sensitive nature of the park, BBQ grills are not permitted.
• Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to swimming so that it doesn’t come off immediately once you hop in.
• Our parking lot is small so please consider carpooling if you are coming with a large group.
• There is limited space in the swimming area – we recommend leaving large inflatable floats and pool toys at home.
• The park gets very busy over the summer so we recommend making swimming reservations as soon as possible (at least 3 weeks ahead of time).
• JWNA does not provide life jackets, please bring your own if needed.

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