Barton Hills

An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Paradise. South Austin.

The Vibe

Barton Hills is the embodiment of Austin’s nature-loving soul. This is a neighborhood where the backyard is a 351-acre park, the community pool is a world-famous spring, and the lifestyle is defined by easy access to some of the city’s most cherished green spaces. It’s a haven for active individuals and families who want the Barton Creek Greenbelt and Zilker Park to be an extension of their home, all while being just minutes from the energy of downtown.

The Story

Established in the 1940s and 1950s, Barton Hills developed as a primarily residential neighborhood prized for its proximity to the natural wonder of Barton Springs. Its history is deeply intertwined with the story of Austin’s conservation movement. As the city grew, residents and activists banded together to protect the pristine waters of the Edwards Aquifer that feed the springs, culminating in the landmark Save Our Springs (SOS) Ordinance of 1992.8 This citizen-led initiative, which imposed strict development limits to protect water quality, cemented the neighborhood’s identity as a steward of Austin’s most iconic natural treasure. This legacy of environmental advocacy continues today, with organizations like The Trail Conservancy and the Hill Country Conservancy working to preserve and enhance the green spaces that make this area so special, including the beloved 12-plus miles of trails in the Barton Creek Greenbelt.

The Lifestyle

Life in Barton Hills is lived outdoors. It’s a place where mornings start with a jog along the Violet Crown Trail, afternoons are spent paddleboarding on Barton Creek, and summer evenings are for a refreshing dip in the 68-degree waters of Barton Springs Pool. The neighborhood is a hub for non-motorized watersports, with easy access to kayak and canoe rentals for exploring Lady Bird Lake. Dog owners flock to “Barkin’ Springs,” the unofficial dog-friendly section of the creek, while hikers and rock climbers explore the rugged beauty of the Greenbelt’s trails and limestone bluffs. Despite feeling like a remote natural oasis, Barton Hills is just minutes from the vibrant cultural scenes of the Zilker neighborhood and Downtown Austin, offering the perfect blend of serene nature and urban excitement.

The Homes

The housing in Barton Hills is a unique cross-section of Austin’s architectural history, reflecting its mid-century origins alongside modern development. You’ll find charming, historic bungalows and ranch-style homes from the 1940s and 50s, many of which have been thoughtfully updated, coexisting with newer, contemporary builds. The neighborhood is primarily residential, with a mix of single-family homes and apartment complexes. Many properties, particularly the rental communities, line the shores of Barton Creek and the Greenbelt, offering residents stunning views and direct access to the trails. These complexes often feature desirable amenities like resort-style pools, fitness centers, and dog parks, catering to the active lifestyle of the community.

Local’s Guide to Barton Hills

• The Crown Jewel: Barton Springs Pool, a three-acre, spring-fed swimming hole that is the heart and soul of the neighborhood.
• The Main Trailhead: The Barton Creek Greenbelt, offering over 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and exploring stunning natural landscapes.
• For Family Fun: Zilker Park, home to the Zilker Botanical Garden, a disc golf course, and vast lawns perfect for picnics and play.
• For a Canine Swim:Barkin’ Springs, the popular dog-friendly spot on Barton Creek just downstream from the main pool.