Texas State Parks: Balmorhea, the Oasis in the West Texas Desert

In the Trans-Pecos region of the Chilhuahuan Desert there is a hidden oasis, the world's largest spring-fed swimming pool that covers almost 2 acres of this 46-acre state park in the West Texas desert. The San Solomon Spring feeds 25 million gallons of water through a 77,053 square foot swimming pool every day.

SCUBA Dive in the Desert

At the Balmorhea State Park you can scuba dive, snorkel and swim in the crystal clear natural swimming pool, whose deepest spot is 25-feet. The artesian spring supports many aquatic animals including turtles, catfish as well as two endangered species, the Comanche Springs pupfish and the Pecos gambusia. For snorkelers and SCUBA divers the view is incredible!

As the 72 to 76-degree F water leaves the swimming pool, it flows into the restored ciénega (wetland). There is an interpretive trail to explore and a below water window to view the aquatic life of the wetland. To enhance your exploration of the Balmorhea ciénega there is a "virtual" geocache in the park. The San Soloman Springs geocache offers more education and exploration into the area of the wetland and springs.

Facilities

In addition to tent and RV camping, the Balmorhea State Park offers motel-style lodging in Southwestern at the San Solomon Spring Courts . Most of these cabins have small kitchenettes and these accommodations are nearest the pool. Not exactly "roughing it", the cabins offer air conditioning and cable TV as well. Be sure to make your reservations for the cabins well in advance of your trip.

All but six of the 34 campsites offer shade shelters. All of the campsites have, water and electricity. There is a restroom with showers available in the campsite in addition to the restroom and showers at the swimming pool.

The dive shop next door to the state park sells dive gear snorkeling equipment, and other pool side necessities. They also have a Dive Master on the staff and can facilitate SCUBA lessons and certification. The state park store also has a limited supply of snorkeling and swimming gear as well as books related to the area.

Nearby Adventures

A high desert mystery: The Marfa Lights

Rockhounding for Red Plume Agate at Woodward Ranch

Resources

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department: Balmorhea
Beneath the Waters of Balmorhea State Park by Garold W. Sneegas