Ingram Dam & Ingram Lake - Image 1
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Ingram Dam and Ingram Lake

4.6
·14 reviews·Ingram, United States

A natural playground on the Guadalupe River, Ingram Dam offers free fun with slippery slides and refreshing swimming in the Texas Hill Country.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Cool off in the river

CrowdHigh
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Ingram Dam & Ingram Lake - Image 1

Ingram Dam and Ingram Lake

Best Time

Summer afternoons

Cool off in the river

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A natural playground on the Guadalupe River, Ingram Dam offers free fun with slippery slides and refreshing swimming in the Texas Hill Country.

4.6
(14 reviews)

"Such a fun place! Definitely wear water shoes. Super slippery. All in all amazing time."

Vertical photo
TIP

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

Crucial for grip on slippery algae. Avoid falls and enjoy sliding down the dam safely.

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Park across the street and pay the fee to avoid towing.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Dam Sliding Fun

Dam Sliding Fun

Ingram Dam

Experience the thrill of sliding down the algae-covered dam – a popular, albeit slippery, activity for all ages.

Guadalupe River Swim Area

Guadalupe River Swim Area

Ingram Lake

Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural swimming area of the Guadalupe River, beautiful year-round.

Rope Swing Adventure

Rope Swing Adventure

Far edge of the dam

For the adventurous, a rope swing off a tree on the far edge offers a fun way to enter the water.

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Planning Your Visit

Water Shoes Are a Must!

The dam and riverbed are notoriously slippery due to algae. Water shoes are essential for safe navigation and enjoying activities like sliding down the dam. Don't skip this crucial item for your visit!

Free Access, But Plan Accordingly

Ingram Dam and Lake offer free entry, but amenities are minimal. Bring your own food, drinks, and any recreational gear. A paid parking lot is available across the street; ensure you pay to avoid towing.

Best Times

When
Summer afternoons
Why
Cool off in the river
Crowd
High
When
Spring and Fall mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Access to Texas hill country from Austin? First time visitor asking. . .

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

Crucial for grip on slippery algae. Avoid falls and enjoy sliding down the dam safely. Reddit

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Park across the street and pay the fee to avoid towing. Reddit

reddit.com

A serious flooding situation is unfolding in Kerrville this morning. Here's what we know.

🧺 Pack Your Own Gear

Bring food, drinks, and any amenities. Only a BBQ grill and trash cans are provided. Reddit

⚠️ Safety First

The area is best for able-bodied individuals. Be aware of your surroundings and swim at your own risk. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🥾 Wear Water Shoes!

Crucial for grip on slippery algae. Avoid falls and enjoy sliding down the dam safely. Reddit

🚗 Paid Parking Available

Park across the street and pay the fee to avoid towing. Reddit

🧺 Pack Your Own Gear

Bring food, drinks, and any amenities. Only a BBQ grill and trash cans are provided. Reddit

⚠️ Safety First

The area is best for able-bodied individuals. Be aware of your surroundings and swim at your own risk. Reddit

🛶 Boat Wake Awareness

Boats can disturb the water. Be prepared for occasional waves. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(14 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Ingram Dam and Lake for its free access and natural beauty, especially the fun of sliding down the dam and swimming in the Guadalupe River. However, many caution that the dam is extremely slippery due to algae, making water shoes essential for safety. Limited amenities and the need for self-sufficiency are also common points.

"Such a fun place! Definitely wear water shoes. Super slippery. All in all amazing time."

Bianca Aaguilera

"No fee needed, no water running at all when I was here"

k

"Great place, plus you can just walk in for free. There were kids sliding down the algae on the dam. The top half of the dam was pretty deep and I could not feel the bottom of the river.

You really need water shoes to walk across the spill-over area, or you have to walk really slow to not slip. On the far edge of the dam, there is a rope that kids were swinging off a tree.

There is one BBQ grill and some trash cans, but otherwise bring your own amenities.

It was kind of annoying when a boat would swing by and disturb the water, but what can you do about that?

There is a commercial parking lot across the street. Be sure to pay for parking per the sign directions to not get towed.

This place is suited for young and able-bodied people. If you need a walker or wheelchair, you really would have trouble moving about. There are no rails, so safety is as your own risk."

Ellice Sanchez

What People Like

Free admission
Fun dam sliding
Refreshing river swims

What People Dislike

Very slippery surface
Limited amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ingram Dam and Lake are located in the Texas Hill Country. From Austin, you'll typically drive west on US-290 W towards Fredericksburg, then take TX-16 S towards Kerrville, and finally follow local roads to Ingram. The drive offers scenic views of the Hill Country, perfect for a road trip. Reddit

Public transportation options directly to Ingram Dam are very limited. It's best accessed by car. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services from nearby towns like Kerrville might be options, but check availability beforehand. Reddit

There is a commercial parking lot located across the street from the dam. It's important to pay the parking fee as indicated by the signs to avoid getting towed. Reddit

Ingram Dam is generally not well-suited for individuals requiring walkers or wheelchairs. The terrain can be uneven and slippery, with no handrails for support. Visitors should be able-bodied and prepared to navigate at their own risk. Reddit

The drive to Ingram Dam itself is part of the scenic Texas Hill Country experience. For more vistas and pastoral scenes, consider exploring routes like the Willow City Loop or driving along the Guadalupe River. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Ingram Dam and Ingram Lake is free. There is no admission fee required to access the dam and the swimming areas along the Guadalupe River. Reddit

Ingram Dam and Lake are natural attractions and do not have set operating hours. They are generally accessible during daylight hours. However, it's always a good idea to check local conditions, especially if visiting during off-peak seasons. Reddit

Since Ingram Dam and Lake are free public access areas, no tickets or reservations are needed. You can visit anytime, though it's recommended to go during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. Reddit

The only fee you might encounter is for parking in the commercial lot across the street. The dam and lake itself are free to access and enjoy. Reddit

Yes, Ingram Dam is beautiful and accessible year-round. While it's popular for swimming in warmer months, its natural beauty can be appreciated in any season. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Popular activities include sliding down the dam (wear water shoes!), swimming in the Guadalupe River, and enjoying the natural scenery. Some visitors also use a rope swing on the far edge of the dam. Reddit

Swimming is popular, but caution is advised. The dam and riverbed are very slippery due to algae. The water depth can vary, and the bottom may not always be discernible. Always swim at your own risk and consider wearing water shoes. Reddit

Amenities are minimal. There is one BBQ grill and some trash cans available. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food, drinks, and any other necessities. Reddit

Definitely bring water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and any food or drinks you plan to consume. A cooler, chairs, and perhaps a frisbee or ball for the riverbank are also good ideas. Reddit

Ingram Dam can get quite crowded, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can offer a more relaxed experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography Tips

Capture the action of people sliding down the dam, the natural beauty of the Guadalupe River, and the surrounding Hill Country landscape. The rope swing area also offers dynamic shots. TikTok

Early morning or late afternoon light can provide softer, more flattering light for photography. Midday sun can be harsh, but it's also when the most activity is happening. Instagram

Don't miss capturing the unique experience of sliding down the dam, kids (and adults!) swinging from the rope, and the serene flow of the Guadalupe River. TikTok

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the landscape and dam. If you plan on swimming or getting close to the water, a waterproof camera or a protective case for your phone is highly recommended. Instagram

Drone regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or park management regarding drone usage to ensure compliance with any restrictions. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Ingram Dam can be a fantastic spot for families looking for outdoor fun, but requires careful supervision. The main draw for kids is often sliding down the dam, which is exhilarating but very slippery. Ensure children wear sturdy water shoes with good grip to prevent falls. The Guadalupe River offers a natural swimming area, but depths can vary, so always keep a close eye on younger swimmers. Reddit

Remember to pack plenty of snacks, drinks, and a picnic lunch, as amenities are minimal. The presence of a BBQ grill is a plus for families wanting to cook on-site. While the rope swing can be a thrill, assess its safety and your children's comfort level before allowing them to use it. The accessibility can be challenging for families with very young children or those needing strollers, so be prepared to carry gear. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Ingram Dam is a dream for budget travelers as entry is completely free. The primary cost you'll encounter is for parking in the lot across the street, which is a small fee compared to many other attractions. This makes it an ideal destination for a low-cost day out. Reddit

To keep costs down, pack all your own food and beverages. This avoids the need to purchase from potentially more expensive vendors or travel elsewhere for meals. Bringing a simple picnic or grilling on-site can significantly reduce your spending. The natural beauty and recreational opportunities are the main attractions, and they come at no charge. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Slippery Slopes

The most frequently mentioned piece of advice for Ingram Dam is the necessity of water shoes. The dam's surface, especially the spill-over areas, becomes incredibly slick due to algae growth. Visitors who forgo water shoes often find themselves walking very slowly or struggling to maintain balance. This isn't just a minor inconvenience; it's a safety concern that can lead to slips and falls. Many reviewers emphasize that wearing them is non-negotiable for a comfortable and safe experience, particularly if you plan on participating in the popular activity of sliding down the dam. Reddit

Beyond just wearing them, consider the type of water shoe. Those with good grip and a sturdy sole will offer the best protection and traction. If you're planning on exploring the riverbed or wading, they'll also protect your feet from any submerged rocks or debris. For those who are less mobile or concerned about slipping, it's advisable to stick to the drier edges of the dam or enjoy the view from a safe distance. Reddit

Maximizing Your Visit: Amenities and Logistics

Ingram Dam offers a natural escape, but it's important to manage expectations regarding amenities. While there's a BBQ grill and trash cans, these are quite basic. Visitors are strongly advised to pack all their own supplies, including food, drinks, and any comfort items like chairs or blankets. This self-sufficiency is key to enjoying a full day without needing to leave the premises. Reddit

Logistically, parking is a crucial consideration. A commercial parking lot is available across the street, and it's essential to pay the posted fee to avoid the risk of towing. This paid parking is a small price to pay for the convenience and peace of mind it offers. For those planning a visit, especially during peak season, arriving earlier in the day can help secure a good spot and avoid the largest crowds. Reddit

It's also worth noting that Ingram Dam is best suited for the young and able-bodied. The lack of handrails and the uneven, slippery terrain make it challenging for individuals with mobility issues. Safety is largely at your own risk, so be mindful of your physical capabilities and the environment. Reddit

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