WIMBERLEY, Texas — Blue Hole Regional Park is closing its swimming area for the rest of the summer because of low water levels.
Earlier this month, the park announced it was closing its swimming area for two weeks, effective Aug. 21. However, it will now remain closed for the rest of the season.
The City of Wimberley said while E. coli levels remain within normal ranges, insufficient water depth at Cypress Creek, which flows through Blue Hole Regional Park, has made swimming unsafe.
At the time of the temporary closure, the City said the conditions would be reviewed again in two weeks and further closures were possible.
On Aug. 30, the park said, "It has become evident that the section of Cypress Creek that flows through Blue Hole Regional Park has not regained a safe depth for swimming this season. We extend our gratitude to everyone for their support during this challenging period."
The park said all reservations will be fully refunded as soon as possible.
The parks' other amenities – including hike and bike trails, picnic areas, playscapes and sports courts – remain open and free. Barbecue grills are closed due to Hays County's burn ban.
The public may direct any questions or concerns to parks@cityofwimberley.com.
Ongoing drought conditions aren't just impacting Blue Hole Regional Park. While Hamilton Pool reopened in July after a temporary closure due to higher-than-normal bacteria levels, Jacob's Well has stopped flowing due to the drought. Meanwhile, low lake levels have caused issues for boaters and water restrictions have raised advocates' concerns.
Many Central Texas cities are currently under some form of water restrictions.