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Memorial Day weekend—falling on Monday, May 25 this year—marks the unofficial start of summer and one of the best times to visit the Texas Hill Country. With warm (but not overwhelming) temperatures, swimming holes opening for the season, scenic hikes, and charming nearby towns, Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and Canyon Lake make an ideal home base for a long holiday weekend.
Whether you’re planning a relaxing retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Memorial Day offers a sweet spot before peak summer heat and crowds arrive.
By late May and early June, the Hill Country is fully in summer mode—without the extreme heat. Daily high temperatures typically range from 89°F to 93°F, with overnight lows between 71°F and 75°F. While warmer days are possible, conditions are generally perfect for swimming, hiking, and exploring outdoors, especially in the mornings and evenings.
One of the most beloved swimming spots in Central Texas, Blue Hole Regional Park features crystal-clear spring-fed waters, towering cypress trees, and a peaceful park setting.
Hours: Park open daily 8 a.m. – sunset
Swimming: Seasonal (typically May–Labor Day) with timed swim sessions
Reservations: Required and often sell out for holiday weekends
Website: https://wimberleyparksandrec.com/blue-hole-regional-park/
The park also offers hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds—making it great for families and groups.
A true Hill Country icon, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a breathtaking natural grotto formed by a collapsed limestone dome, complete with a seasonal waterfall and turquoise pool.
Reservations: Required for all visits (including swimming)
Hours: Typically Wednesday–Sunday, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Swimming: Weather- and water-quality dependent
Hike: About ¼ mile downhill; sturdy shoes recommended
Website: https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve
Memorial Day reservations fill quickly, so planning ahead is essential.
For lake lovers, Canyon Lake offers over 80 miles of shoreline and is ideal for boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and swimming. Public access points, marinas, and lakeside parks make it easy to spend a full day on the water.
Located near Dripping Springs, Pedernales Falls State Park features dramatic limestone riverbeds, waterfalls, and nearly 20 miles of trails. Visitors can hike, picnic, wade in the river, and spot wildlife.
Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls
Set along the spring-fed Blanco River, Blanco State Park is a quieter option for swimming, paddling, fishing, and relaxing under shaded picnic areas.
Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/blanco
A unique geological attraction, Canyon Lake Gorge offers guided and self-guided hikes through a limestone gorge carved by floodwaters. Fossils, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks make this a memorable stop.
Website: https://www.gbra.org/recreation/canyon-lake-gorge/
Old Baldy Park – A short but steep climb rewards hikers with panoramic Hill Country views
Charro Ranch Park – Open space, walking trails, and picnic areas
Staying in Dripping Springs, Wimberley, or Canyon Lake puts several popular destinations within easy driving distance:
Fredericksburg – Wineries, German heritage, boutique shopping
Gruene Historic District – Live music, river access, historic charm
Johnson City – LBJ National Historical Park and local art
New Braunfels – River tubing, water parks, and vibrant downtown
Book swimming reservations early (especially Blue Hole and Hamilton Pool)
Plan hikes and outdoor activities in the morning or evening
Bring water shoes, sun protection, and plenty of hydration
From iconic swimming holes to scenic trails and charming nearby towns, Memorial Day weekend in the Texas Hill Country offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure—before summer heat hits full stride.
Yes. Memorial Day weekend is one of the best times to visit the Texas Hill Country. Late May offers warm but manageable temperatures, swimming holes are open for the season, and hiking is still enjoyable before peak summer heat arrives.
Daily high temperatures typically range from 89°F to 93°F, with overnight lows in the low to mid-70s. While afternoons can be warm, mornings and evenings are ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and sightseeing.
Many do. Blue Hole Regional Park and Hamilton Pool Preserve both require advance reservations for swimming, especially on holiday weekends. Reservations often sell out days or weeks in advance, so planning ahead is strongly recommended.
Swimming at Hamilton Pool is weather- and water-quality-dependent. Even when swimming is restricted, the preserve may still be open for hiking and viewing. Always check the official Travis County Parks website before visiting and secure a reservation in advance.
State parks like Pedernales Falls State Park and Blanco State Park can be busy, especially midday. Visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help avoid crowds. Some parks may also require day-use reservations during peak weekends.
Yes. Memorial Day is one of the last ideal weekends for hiking before extreme summer heat. Popular trails at Canyon Lake Gorge, Old Baldy Park, and Pedernales Falls are best enjoyed in the morning or near sunset.
Dripping Springs, Wimberley, and Canyon Lake are excellent home bases. They offer easy access to swimming holes, state parks, wineries, and nearby day trips, while still providing quiet, scenic settings for relaxation.
Yes. Popular Memorial Day weekend day trips include Fredericksburg for wineries and shopping, Gruene for live music and river access, Johnson City for history and art, and New Braunfels for river tubing and water activities.
Pack lightweight clothing, comfortable walking or hiking shoes, water shoes for swimming holes, sunscreen, hats, reusable water bottles, and swimsuits. A light jacket is helpful for cooler evenings.
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