One Of Texas' Largest Springs Is A Peaceful Oasis With Parks, Natural Beauty, And Adventure

Texas has been generously blessed with a vast array of bodies of water. And it's a good thing. Thanks to places like the Guadalupe River, Hamilton Pool (the top-ranked swimming hole in America), and numerous bucket list beaches, residents can better cope with the long, blistering summers. But even if you're very familiar with the state's swimming holes, you still may never have heard of San Felipe Springs.

This little oasis is situated on the east side of the border town of Del Rio. The group of roughly 10 spring openings are scattered over the distance of about a mile alongside San Felipe Creek, making it the fourth largest spring in Texas. The cool, clear spring water fills several swimming holes along the way and serves as the main water source to both the city and the nearby Laughlin Air Force Base. Once you've experienced all that the springs and surrounding parks have to offer, you're just 15 minutes from the Amistad National Recreation Area surrounding the 89,000-acre limestone Amistad Reservoir for even more water recreation and natural beauty.

Perhaps it comes as no surprise that Texas' charming swimming holes are the state's best-kept secrets –– and San Felipe Springs is the perfect example of that. The lush greenery and crystal waters of Del Rio must've seemed like a mirage after early Spanish explorers first stumbled through the Chihuahuan Desert some 400 years ago. But the waters of San Felipe Springs are still offering refreshment to thirsty residents and sweaty visitors all these years later. One great way to experience the springs is to take Highway 90 to Horseshoe Park. Not only is this where the head gate of the canal system is, but it's also one of the city's most popular swimming holes. 

From there, take a stroll down the picturesque San Felipe Creek Walk. Don't be alarmed if you see swimmers jumping off the Gillis Avenue bridge into the creek; it's a local pastime. Then, it's just a short walk to the trail's end and another one of Del Rio's favorite swimming spots: Lions Park. If it happens to be a little too cold for a swim, take advantage of the paved Mayor Dora Alcalá Hike and Bike Trail instead. You'll still get scenic waterfront views plus access to various parks, historical markers, and picnic areas along the way.

If you're hoping to take your boat out on the water, it's hard to find a better spot than nearby Lake Amistad. The water is blue and clear, the dramatic limestone cliffs are beautiful, and the bass fishing is plentiful. There is no entrance fee, and lake use passes are just $4 for the day or $50 for the year. Remember to check the website ahead of time to see which boat ramps are open based on fluctuating lake levels.

Did you know Del Rio is also home to the oldest winery in Texas? Since its founding in 1883, Val Verde Winery has been run by the Qualia family. Stop by the charming tasting room on the south end of town on Tuesdays through Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. or on Sundays from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.

If you'd like to experience a little excursion over the border, Del Rio is just across the Rio Grande from Ciudad Acuña. Once you cross the bridge, you'll be right next to Manuel's Restaurant, where you can indulge in top-notch steaks and seafood with an authentic Mexican flare. After you've stuffed yourself on Steak Tampico, head to Corona Club around the corner. This famous establishment embodies border culture in this part of the world and has been featured in the films "El Mariachi" and "Desperado."