Krause Springs is an amazing place. West of Austin a little more than 30
miles, Krause Springs is a wonderful swimming hole. Krause Springs is actually a
privately owned area owned by Elton and Jane Krause. Over the years, the Krauses
have created camp grounds, trails and a butterfly garden for anyone who wants to
visit.
Cypress Creek runs just below the house, which is the entrance to
the area. Cypress Creek is only one water feature that feeds the area. There are
32 springs on the property, some cascading into the water below as waterfalls.
The mini valley that the creek runs through has amazing cliffs on one side and
huge cypress trees all along the water. In the cliffs are many caves, some large
enough to go in, but many being just outlets for water when it rains.
You probably wouldn't
expect a scene like what you see above in Central Texas, but this is Krause
Springs. The creek runs all the time and that is why the ferns are so
lush.
Walking along the creek is a bit rough as cypress tree roots and rocks,
large and small, are everywhere. Swimming is really more like splashing around
in the water. The water is a chilly 70 degrees all year, so jumping in during
the summer could be really refreshing. In the cliff by the swimming home are
quite a few caves. Most are too small to go in, but you can actually swim into
one.
The other cliff has a trail that runs along its base. The geology of
the cliff is pretty interesting. There are holes everywhere that water has
percolated through over time. In many areas there are what look like what once
were stalactites when there was more of a roof over parts of the cliff.
Anyone wanting to camp can do that in one of two camp grounds. Firewood is
available if needed. Camping costs more than just a day visit, but prices are
very reasonable.
To get to Krause Springs, take Texas 71 northwest from Austin. Go about
18 miles past the intersection of 620 and 71 in Bee Cave and turn right on
County Road 191. You will recognize 191 as Opie's Barbeque and an Exxon station
or an the corner. Just a few minutes later you will see a sign for Krause
Springs. Turn right and then left after a low water crossing on Krause Springs
Road.
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