The camping facilities as Balmorhea State Park are currently closed, and the park is only open for day use. However, the famous pool that the park is known for is open for swimming.
The pool is 1.3 acres and was constructed by the hardworking members of the Civilian Conservation Corp. Work was completed on the park and pool in 1940.
The area was known for the Solomon Springs, which provided a vital water supply in the desert. The park was built near the springs.
Location:
9207 TX-17 Toyahvale, TX 79786
Balmorhea State Park is located 4 miles southwest of Balmorhea, Texas.
Cost:
The entry fee for Balmorhea State Park is $7 for per person over the age of 13. There is free admission for people ages 12 and under.
The day use fee for the park includes the use of the swimming pool. There is no additional ticket necessary to enter the pool area for swimming.
Scuba diving requires an extra $5 fee.
Annual pass holders do not have to pay entrance fees to visit the park as well as their guests in the same vehicle as them. The Texas State Parks Pass is $70 per year. I recommend getting the pass in order to save money when visiting the parks.
Hours:
The park is open from 8:00 am to 7:30 pm, unless sunset is earlier.
Camping:
The campsites at Balmorhea State Park are currently closed for renovations. I look forward to seeing what they are like when they reopen.
Reservations:
Reservations should be made online in advance to ensure there is room for you in the park. If you do not have a reservation you risk being turned away from entering the park.
Swimming at Balmorhea State Park
Balmorea State Park is known for the historic swimming pool that was built in the 1930’s by the civilian conservation corp.
The swimming pool is one of the largest spring fed swimming pools in the world. The pool is up to 25 feet deep.
Swimming at the pool is at your own risk, and swimmers under age 15 must be supervised by an adult.
Pets are not allowed in the pool area.
Food is allowed in the pool area. Glass containers are prohibited by the pool. Grilling and cooking food is prohibited by the pool.
Pool floaties are allowed, with some restrictions.
What is there to do at Balmorhea State Park?
With the campsites under construction, the activities at Balmorhea State Park are more limited. The main attraction at the park is the swimming pool.
What other parks are near Balmorhea State Park?
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Monahans Sandhills State Park
Big Bend National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
What to do near Balmorhea State Park:
McDonald Observatory
Marfa
Prada Marfa
Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame
Where to stay near Balmorhea State Park:
The camping options at Balmorhea State Park are currently closed for renovations.
When making plans for where to stay, remember that things in this part of Texas can be very far apart. Places can book up early, especially during high tourist seasons such as over Thanksgiving.
Pecos, Texas is a nearby town which is a good place to stay when visiting the park. Pecos is famous for being the home of the first rodeo. If staying in Pecos be sure to check out the Texas Rodeo Hall of Fame and the West of the Pecos Museum. Pecos is the closest area with a large range of hotels.
Best Western Plus Swiss Chalet Hotel and Suites
Has an indoor swimming pool and lots of rooms.
La Quinta by Wyndham Pecos
A pet friendly hotel with an indoor swimming pool.