The Texas Hill Country is famous for its large number of natural swimming holes and rivers, but the fees it costs to enjoy these aquatic destinations are also becoming famous.
Hamilton Pool in western Travis County has become increasingly popular in the last few years. Visitors have to arrive right when the pool opens if they don't want to wait in a long line on Ranch Road 12. Because of the long line, 70 percent of visitors are turned away from Hamilton Pools during its busy season.
To fix the overwhelming traffic the pool gets, Travis County commissioners voted unanimously on March 29 to implement a reservation system for Hamilton Pools.
People who want to enjoy Hamilton Pools will have to make a $10 reservation online, and pay $26 per car starting on May 15. The change will only be in effect during the pool's peak months from May to September.
Dan Perry, the western district park manager for Travis County, suspects a decrease in visitors to Hamilton Pool is possible but believes this could be a positive effect on the environment.
"By having a more controlled crowd, we’ll be able to proactively monitor the preserve and keep it in better shape,” Perry said.
Jacob's Well in Wimberley implemented a similar reservation system last year to preserve the natural area and still remains a popular spot.
Visitors can reserve a spot at Hamilton Pool from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Whether or not people will be upset over the price raise, one thing is for sure: Hamilton Pool's preservation will last for several more years thanks to the new reservation system.