Blue Hole closed to swimming for remainder of 2023 season

WIMBERLEY — City of Wimberley officials announced that Blue Hole Regional Park will be closed for swimming for the remainder of this year’s season.

The decision to close the area was made due to the concern for public safety, specifically because the water depth has reached a level that is deemed unsafe for recreational swimming.

Originally on Monday, Aug. 21, Blue Hole was only going to be closed for swimming for two weeks. However, as of Tuesday, Aug. 29, officials announced that it has become evident that the section of Cypress Creek that flows through Blue Hole Regional Park has not regained a safe depth for swimming this season.

Swimming being suspended is not new for Blue Hole. Officials had to close the swimming area early for the season in August 2022 due to bacteria levels and poor visibility conditions.

“In contrast to last year's closure on Aug. 1, which was prompted by issues related to water quality and clarity due to elevated bacterial levels, this year's closure stems from a different reason,” said Wimberley Parks and Recreation Director Richard Shaver. “Although our recent bacteria testing has yielded remarkably low bacteria counts, the present closure is due to the potential risks posed by the unusually low water levels.”

Shaver said that the Wimberley Parks and Recreation Department staff understands the frustration behind the continuous drought in Central Texas that has been tough on the natural resources.

“We are doing everything we can to protect this section of Cypress Creek so it is available for swimming for future generations. Safety for our visitors and safety for our beloved creek will always be the top priority for the Wimberley Parks and Recreation Department,” he said. “As of right now, the future of Blue Hole remains unknown, but we are doing everything we can to conserve our water resources and hoping for a rainy season in the upcoming months.”

Those who have made reservations for swimming will receive a full refund of their booking fees, Shaver said. The refund will be automatic; visitors do not need to contact the city to initiate the process.

Other recreational amenities, such as the regional hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playscapes and sport courts will remain open. Barbecue grills are closed because of the current burn ban in Hays County.

For those who have questions or concerns, email the Wimberley Parks and Recreation Department at [email protected].