Krause Springs

5 Stars

Krause Springs Pool

Krause Springs is an amazing spring fed watering hole just outside the city limits. The water is cool & refreshing. The grounds are lush and tropical. There are huge old Cypress Trees scattered throughout the park with picnic benches nestled underneath for shade.  The entrance fee to the park is quite reasonable & if you go on a scouting trip to just check things out, they'll likely let you in for free to just take a look around. Near the entrance is a beautiful garden that I'd highly recommend checking out...especially if you are into gardening. 

Spring-fed pool

The first level of the grounds (which slops down from the entrance) is where the pool is located. The pool was built to capture a large volume of the 68 degree spring water for pool swimming before it spills over the cliff into the Cypress Creek below.

Cypress Creek below the pool

Walking down some rather steep steps takes you to the lower part of the grounds where the creek is located. It's not a huge space, but large enough for plenty of floating. Speaking of floating...bring your floats. It's the best way to experience the creek. It's a bit warmer than the pool above. There's a rope swing & rocky shore perfect for catching some sun. The water that spills over from the pool above cascades over the most gorgeous collection of maidenhair fern that I have ever seen. 

Stream below with room for floating & a rope swing

Huge old Cypress Tree

TIPS & INFO:
1. We were told that they never turn anyone away, but I imagine it can get quite crowded. Get there early to secure a picnic table. There are a lot of them!
2. Krause Springs isn't too far from Hamilton Pool. So, if you get turned away from Hamilton because of the crowds, head over to Krause.
3. There's an onsite bathroom (with a shower) for changing.
4. You can bring in coolers, food, floats and all the other watering hole paraphernalia.  
5. There are no trash cans. You bring out your own trash. So, bring an extra bag.
6. They sell ice in case you run out or forget yours.

Picnic tables shaded by Cypress Trees

7. There's a food truck onsite, but it wasn't open when we went. I'm not sure if it's operational or not. Bring your own food & drinks.
8. The slope down to the pool is a bit of a hike. The steps down to the stream are quite steep. If you have walking and/or mobility challenges, this isn't the place for you. 
9. There's onsite primitive camping for an add'l fee. No water or electric. We didn't camp, but toured the camping area. It looks really nice with shaded trees, picnic tables & fire pits.
10. Check out Opie's BBQ on your way to the park. It's simple...meat & beans.  Yum-O.