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Austin severe weather: See list of parks and recreation closures
Austin Parks and Recreation is adjusting operations at many of its facilities beginning Friday, Jan. 23, in anticipation of severe weather conditions from Winter Storm Fern.
Published January 23, 2026 at 11:00am by Julianna Duennes Russ
Barton Springs Pool is one of the city facilities that will close this weekend due to Winter Storm Fern.
If you were hoping to indulge in a freezing cold plunge at Barton Springs Pool this weekend, think again — Austin weather will get in your way.
Austin Parks and Recreation is adjusting operations at many of its facilities beginning Friday, Jan. 23, in anticipation of severe weather conditions from Winter Storm Fern.
Take a look at what is closing and when it could reopen again.
Pools and splash pads
The Bartholomew, Colony Park and Springwoods pools will be closed Friday.
Barton Springs, Deep Eddy and Big Stacy pools and the Liz Carpenter Splash Pad will close at noon Friday, and Barton Springs Pool's typical "swim at your own risk" policy will not be applicable.
Pools and splash pads will reopen when temperatures rise above freezing.
Recreation centers
Parque Zaragoza, Montopolis, Turner-Roberts, Northwest, George Morales and Gus Garcia recreation centers will close at 6 p.m. on Friday.
They will reopen either Monday, January 26, or Tuesday, January 27 at 1 p.m., depending on the weather.
While open-air city parks will technically still be open, their public restrooms and water fountains will close on Friday. Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park will also be unavailable Friday through Tuesday due to water being shut off for the freeze.
Zilker Botanical Garden
Zilker Botanical Garden will be closed on Saturday and Sunday. The garden will reopen on Monday, with time dependent on weather conditions.
Athletic league games and rentals
Athletic league games and rentals are canceled beginning Friday evening through the weekend. Water will be shut off at Krieg Field and the athletic offices on Friday afternoon.
Golf ATX
Most courses will close at 10 a.m. Friday. Morris Williams and Clay/Kizer courses closed Thursday, with the last tee times being 11 a.m.
Visit AustinTexas.gov/ParkClosures for updates and further information about Austin Parks and Recreation closures.