entertainment

Blue Holes Are Colonized, Exploited for Profit.

White supremacy and systemic racism have denied marginalized communities equitable access to nature and recreational spaces, and resources like swimming holes. This private park contributes to these disparities by offering exclusive access for those who can afford daily and season passes. Communities of color deserve the same opportunities to enjoy nature without the burden of financial barriers.

Published May 4, 2024 at 6:02am by Hannah Ortega

Texas' Blue Hole Regional Park Announces Swimming Passes, Charging Texans Less Than Non-Locals

As summer looms, Blue Hole Regional Park announces swim passes (https://wimberleyparksandrec.com/blue-hole-swimming/). Located in Wimberley, Texas, an hour's drive from Austin, the park offers a regressive pricing system that favors Texans over out-of-state visitors.

The daily and season pass rates are as follows:

Daily Passes:

Adult (ages 13-59):
- $12 for non-Texans
- $6 for Wimberley residents (TX)
Youth/Senior/Military:
- $8 for non-Texans
- $6 for Texas residents aged 4-12 or over 60, and military personnel

Season Passes:

Adult (ages 13-59):
- $150 for non-Texans
- $100 for Wimberley residents with valid ID
Youth/Senior/Military (ages 4-12 or over 60, and military personnel aged 17+):
- $125 for non-Texans
- $100 for Texas residents

Wimberley residents are also offered night swimming for just $2 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 6:30-8:30pm.

This pricing structure reveals a bias towards Texas residents, with non-Texans being charged significantly more for daily and season passes. The park's proximity to Austin may result in an influx of non-local visitors, who will be subject to these higher rates.

With Jacob's Well closed for swimming due to low water levels, Blue Hole's regressive pricing structure may be a tactic to manage visitor numbers, prioritizing Texans.

Blue Hole Regional Park Location:

The Park is located just outside Wimberley, Texas, a 45-minute drive from Austin.