Forget swimming in the popular Jacob’s Well Natural Area (JNWA) in nearby Wimberley.
The threat of high bacteria levels, other pollutants and poor visibility are the culprits, according to Hays County Parks.
The popular swimming area will be closed for the foreseeable future. The natural area remains open for hiking, geocaching and other activities.
“When swimming will be allowed again depends on factors beyond our control,” Hays County Parks said in a statement. “We will monitor those conditions daily and update the information on our website and social media pages.”
JNWA does not issue refunds or rainchecks for reservations. All sales are final.
However, due to unusual circumstances, the parks department said it will try to work with people whose reservations are canceled.
Visitors who just want to hike do not need a reservation. Recommended hiking hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that releases thousands of gallons of water per day, according to Hays County Parks. Most of the water comes in from the Trinity Aquifer, which formed an extensive underground cave system. JNWA features second-largest fully submerged cave in Texas.
Jacob’s Well is located at the headwaters of Cypress Creek, which flows through Blue Hole Regional Park and feeds into the Blanco River.
Water temperature stays a constant 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
The 81 acres surrounding Jacob’s Well are designated as a natural area. While natural areas are very similar to parks, there are a few differences.
Natural areas tend to focus more on preservation rather than recreation and typically offer less amenities and have stricter rules.
No dogs, glass, alcohol or drones are permitted in the natural areas.
