Balmorhea State Park
00 review9207 TX-17, TOYAHVALE, Texas, 79786, United States
Balmorhea State Park
$7.00 - $7.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use fee is $7 per person, age 13 and older. Scuba diving requires an additional $5 per person activity fee.
About this campground
Discover a true desert miracle at Balmorhea State Park, where an enormous spring-fed pool sparkles like a sapphire jewel in the West Texas landscape. This aquatic wonderland, one of the world's largest spring-fed swimming holes, offers a refreshing escape with crystal-clear waters teeming with rare desert fish and aquatic plants. While camping facilities undergo thoughtful renovations to enhance your future stays, the park's legendary pool continues to welcome swimmers, snorkelers, and nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable oasis experience.
Balmorhea State Park does not currently have camping options available due to ongoing renovations. Historically, it offered cabins and campsites.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time to the 1930s, when skilled craftsmen of the Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this natural spring into an architectural marvel that continues to enchant visitors today. Their legacy lives on in the meticulously constructed stone walls and channels that frame this aquatic sanctuary. Beyond its historical significance, the pool serves as a vital refuge for endangered desert pupfish and other rare aquatic species, making every swim a journey through living history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of desert seasons, where summer days blaze with temperatures climbing into the mid-90s°F, perfect for plunging into the perpetually cool 74°F spring waters. Winter brings gentle relief with temperatures settling into the comfortable mid-40s°F, creating ideal conditions for exploring the surrounding landscape. No matter when you visit, the spring-fed pool maintains its inviting 74°F temperature, offering year-round aquatic adventures.
ElevationNestled within the Chihuahuan Desert's rolling terrain, the park sits at a moderate elevation that perfectly balances accessibility with the dramatic vistas characteristic of West Texas. This strategic position creates the unique conditions that allow the artesian springs to bubble forth, creating an unexpected aquatic paradise in the midst of arid landscapes.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape of striking contrasts, where golden desert vistas meet lush wetland ecosystems sustained by the life-giving artesian springs. The park's centerpiece pool creates a vibrant underwater world visible through crystalline waters, while native cottonwoods and desert willows provide shady retreats along the water's edge. This remarkable convergence of desert and aquatic habitats creates breathtaking scenery and supports an incredible diversity of wildlife found nowhere else in the region.
Geological RegionExplore a fascinating geological phenomenon where ancient underground aquifers breach the desert floor, creating a rare spring-fed ecosystem in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert. The artesian springs, flowing from deep limestone formations, have carved out wetland habitats that defy the surrounding arid environment. This unique geological setting supports an extraordinary tapestry of life, from desert species adapted to extreme conditions to aquatic communities thriving in the constant flow of mineral-rich spring water.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is noted to have a chair lift for accessibility into the water, accommodating visitors with disabilities.
Sites SizeCampsites are not currently available due to renovations. There is no specific detail about the size of sites.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy details for campsites are unavailable, as the campground is under renovation.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSnorkel and scuba diving gear recommended for exploring underwater wildlife.
Best CampsitesCurrently unavailable due to renovations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM
Check-out
7:30 PM
Stay Limit
- Reservations required for all visits
- camping unavailable.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Limited to day-use visitation only due to renovations.
Groups
No information is available about group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutDay-use facilities only; picnic tables and shaded areas available.
Open and Closed SeasonDay-use open year-round; camping facilities under renovation.
Reservation PlatformsTexas Parks and Wildlife website; reservation required for day-use.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot allowed due to capacity restrictions. "Walk-ins for Daily Entrance are not accepted once capacity limit has been reached."
Cancellation Policy"If your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation as soon as possible to allow someone else to enjoy the park."
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The primary attraction at Balmorhea State Park is the spring-fed swimming pool, which offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and SCUBA diving. The park also features wildlife viewing areas, including wetlands created by the spring. Fishing is not permitted in the park, and there are no hiking trails within the park boundaries, but it is located near other attractions with hiking options.
Swimming
The spring-fed pool is a highlight of the park. It maintains a constant temperature of 74°F and features both shallow and deep areas, with depths reaching up to 35 feet. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling and observe fish and turtles. Safety measures include no lifeguards and restrictions on glass, cooking, and pets in the pool area.Wildlife viewing
The park features a wildlife viewing station overlooking wetlands created by the spring. Visitors may observe a variety of wildlife, including fish and turtles in the pool area.Winter Activities
The park is open year-round, but no specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Snorkeling and SCUBA diving are popular activities at the spring-fed pool.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No mention of fire policies; cooking prohibited in pool areas.
- Quiet hours are No explicit mention of quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPool steps are slippery, posing a risk. Wildlife interactions include fish nibbling toes. No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk.
Active alertsCamping facilities closed due to renovations. Limited day-use visitation capacity.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are Ranger Station (432-375-2370) within the park, and potentially hospitals or emergency facilities in Balmorhea or Fort Davis.
Good to know
Peak season datesReservations are recommended months in advance during summer.
Trash and recyclingOne reviewer mentioned that park rangers promptly clean up litter, indicating that trash facilities are well-maintained.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to one of the world's largest spring-fed pools, depth between 3 to 35 feet.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints about reservation policies and staff attitudes. "Very disappointing" experiences due to unclear reservation rules and denied access.
HostRangers available, described as helpful but occasionally perceived as "rude" in enforcing strict policies.
Campground Map
9207 TX-17, TOYAHVALE, Texas, 79786, United States
Driving directionsFrom San Antonio: Take I 10 West to Balmorhea exit. Take Texas 17 West for 4 miles. Park is on the South side of the road. From El Paso: Take I 10 East to Balmorhea exit. Take FARM ROAD 3078 East for 12 miles. Park is on the South side of the road.
Accessible year-round via paved roads. Road quality appears good for standard vehicles, though no mention of seasonal closures or terrain challenges.Nearby places
Balmorhea (approx. 4 miles, 8 minutes), Fort Davis (approx. 33 miles, 40 minutes), Marfa (approx. 60 miles, 1 hour), El Paso (approx. 187 miles, 2 hours 45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies available in Balmorhea (approx. 4 miles). Discount grocery and gas stations within Balmorhea. Larger supply options may exist in Fort Davis or Marfa.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Balmorhea State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Visitor experiences at Balmorhea State Park are mixed. Many praise the unique spring-fed pool for its clear, cool water and opportunities for activities like snorkeling and diving. However, some visitors express frustration with the strict reservation policies and the unavailability of certain facilities due to renovations.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
The spring-fed pool is frequently described as 'amazing,' 'a Texas pearl,' and 'a must-visit spot.' Many appreciate the cleanliness of the park, the unique wildlife in the pool, and the...
Show more
Common Concerns
Common issues include the strict reservation policy, lack of camping options due to renovations, and perceived rudeness of staff. Several reviewers were frustrated by the inability to enter without...
Show more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors strongly recommend making reservations well in advance (up to two months). Bringing snorkeling gear, water shoes, and sunscreen is advised for enjoying the pool. Glass containers are...
Show more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is a popular season for visits, but reviews indicate the park becomes crowded and reservations fill quickly. Winter visits are quieter but may have limited activity due to cool temperatures.
Camper Quotes
- 'The water is absolutely beautiful gin clear. Bring goggles and see fish, turtles, and minnows.' (Henry Christy)
- 'Nice clean bathrooms and showers. Great little gift shop.' (Tyler Larsen)
-...
Show more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground is currently under renovation, so there are no site-specific reviews.
Accessibility Features
The park is noted to have a chair lift for water access, but no other reviews specifically address accessibility.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in the pool area, which has led to mixed reactions. One reviewer noted their satisfaction with the policy as it ensured a safer experience for children.
Last updated August 10, 2025