Blue Hole is the cypress-shaded heart of Wimberley

Blue Hole Regional Park sits on Cypress Creek in Wimberley. Tall bald cypress shade a clear, deep swimming hole that has served as a summer gathering spot for more than a century. The creek water and cypress shade explain a lot about Wimberley's sense of place.

The swim area is the planned part. From May 1 through Labor Day, plus some September weekends, swimming uses reservations and timed sessions. Hot-weekend slots can fill. The rest of the park is easier: trails, bike paths, picnic spots, sports fields, and playground stay open without a swim reservation.

Even without a swim slot, it is still a Wimberley stop. Walk the creek-side trails and you get the shade that made the place famous.