AUSTIN- With temperatures around the state hitting the 90\u2019s and 100\u2019s, Texans everywhere are looking for a way to keep cool.<\/p>\n
Parks around the state offer a variety of swimming options such as spring-fed rivers, lakes, and Gulf water to help the entire family stay cool and enjoy what Texas\u2019 natural resources have to offer.<\/p>\n
In the Austin area, state parks such as\u00a0McKinney Falls<\/strong><\/a>,\u00a0Inks Lake<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Pedernales Falls<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0offer an array of rivers and lakes in the heart of the Hill Country.<\/p>\n In East Texas near Houston,\u00a0Huntsville State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Lake Livingston State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0are ideal destinations for river and lake swimming. If wading close to shore on the open ocean seems more ideal,\u00a0Galveston Island State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0offers beach access to the Gulf of Mexico.<\/p>\n Near Dallas,\u00a0Eisenhower State Park<\/strong><\/a>,\u00a0Fairfield Lake State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0offer park visitors a chance to swim in the soothing waters of those lakes, cool off and enjoy a break from the bustle of the city.<\/p>\n In the San Antonio area,\u00a0Guadalupe River State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0Palmetto State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0give park visitors a chance to go for a dip and beat the south Texas heat.<\/p>\n In West Texas,\u00a0Balmorhea State Park<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0is the home of one of the world\u2019s largest spring-fed pools, with water so clear that many people bring their snorkel gear to experience the underwater world first hand.<\/p>\n No matter where you swim, visitors must always be aware of their surroundings and environmental conditions and follow basic\u00a0swimming safety tips<\/strong><\/a>. Tips include recognizing the importance of wearing a life jacket, staying hydrated and swimming in designated swimming areas.<\/p>\n