Looking for the best family-friendly pools in East Texas?
Summer is the perfect time to dive into some fun, and we’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to the top swimming pools around the 903 area.
Say goodbye to endless searching and get ready to cool off at some of the most popular water spots in Tyler, Lufkin, and beyond!
Some of the links on this site may be affiliate links, meaning if you purchase through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Must-Haves for a Day at the Pool
Here’s what I always pack for a perfect pool day:
The Bag That Holds It All
Bogg Bag – Sturdy, waterproof, and holds everything without tipping over.
Bogg Bag Divider & Organizer – Keep things neat and accessible.
Bogg Bag Charms – Add a personal touch to your bag.
Dry, Hydrated, & Sun-Protected
Microfiber Towels – Quick-drying, super absorbent, and compact.
Insulated Water Cup – Ice-cold drinks all day.
Water Flavoring – Keep everyone hydrated with a fun twist.
Sunscreen – Essential for reapplying throughout the day.
Sunglasses – Polarized lenses to block the Texas sun.
Wagon – A total lifesaver for hauling all your gear (and sometimes tired kiddos). Choose one with wide tires for easy pulling over sand and grass.
Picnic Blanket – Make sure it’s big enough for the whole family and easy to shake off the sand when you’re ready to pack up.
Beach Chairs – If you’d rather not sit on a towel or blanket for hours, comfortable beach chairs are a must!
Soft Shell Cooler – Keep snacks and drinks cold without taking up too much space. It’s compact and efficient for all your poolside needs.
Ice Pack – Because nothing ruins a pool day faster than a warm juice box or melted cheese sticks.
Water Play Must-Haves
Puddle Jumper – Safety first for little swimmers.
Reusable Water Balloons – Fun without the cleanup.
These essentials make pool days easy, fun, and stress-free!
Find the pool nearest to you with ease by checking out this handy Google Map!
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UT Tyler Pool
Cost: Day pass $10/person
Description: The UT Tyler pool is perfect for a day of swimming. It’s spacious and well-maintained, making it a great option for families looking for a more relaxed day in the water.
Address: 3080 Alumni Cir, Tyler, TX
Phone: UT Tyler Contact
Website/Facebook: UT Tyler Website
Fun Forest Pool & Splash Pad
Cost: $1/Residents, $2/Non-Residents (Cash only)
Description: Located in the heart of Tyler, Fun Forest offers both a refreshing pool and a splash pad for younger kids. A perfect spot for families with kids of all ages to enjoy the water.
Address: 900 N Glenwood Blvd, Tyler, TX
Phone: (903) 595-7271
Website/Facebook: City of Tyler Website
Buckner Park Pool
Cost: Free
Description: Buckner Park Pool in Jacksonville is a hidden gem! This pool is free to the public, making it an excellent spot for families on a budget.
Address: 119-123 Newbern St, Jacksonville, TX
Phone: (903) 586-7210
Website/Facebook: City of Jacksonville Website
Ingram Pool
Cost: $2/ages 3 – 17, $3/ages 18+, Free for ages 2 and younger
Description: A great pool for families, Ingram Pool has a range of affordable prices based on age, making it easy for everyone to enjoy. The smaller kids can enjoy the shallow end while the older ones swim laps or play.
Address: 1400 North 10th St, Ingram, TX
Phone: (830) 367-5342
Website/Facebook: Ingram City Pool
Grand Saline Community Pool
Cost: $5/kids, $7/age 12+
Description: This community pool in Grand Saline is a family favorite. It’s a great spot to spend the day relaxing and swimming in a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Address: 500 E Frank St, Grand Saline, TX
Phone: (903) 962-4487
Website/Facebook: Grand Saline Parks and Rec
City Pool
Cost: $4, cash only (3 and under admitted free)
Description: The City Pool in Kilgore is a fantastic, low-cost option for families looking for a cool place to relax and enjoy the water. It’s a no-frills pool that provides everything you need for a family day out.
Address: 405 N Henderson Blvd, Kilgore, TX
Phone: (903) 983-3520
Website/Facebook: City of Kilgore Website
Lufkin Swim Center
Cost: $3/person
Description: The Lufkin Swim Center is a great option for families who want a larger pool with plenty of space to spread out.
Address: 909 S. Angelina Blvd, Lufkin, TX
Phone: (936) 633-0250
Website/Facebook: Lufkin Swim Center
Lehman Swim Center
Cost: $5/person
Description: Nacogdoches’ premier swimming facility, this center is great for families who want a clean, organized spot to swim and have fun.
Address: 2712 Park St, Nacogdoches, TX
Phone: (936) 559-2947
Website/Facebook: Nacogdoches Parks and Rec
Quitman City Pool
Cost: Free (check for seasonal updates)
Description: A small-town pool offering family-friendly fun without the hefty price tag. The Quitman City Pool is an easy stop for a quick swim.
Address: Beulah St, Quitman, TX 75783
Phone: (903) 763-5425
Website/Facebook: Quitman TX City Website
Country Clubs with Pools You Can Join
If you’re looking for a more exclusive pool experience, check out these local country clubs that offer pool memberships:
Tyler Athletic and Swim
Holly Tree
Eagles Bluff
Cascades
These locations provide access to top-tier facilities for swimming and recreation, often with additional amenities like tennis courts, golf courses, and fine dining.
Find the pool nearest to you with ease by checking out this handy Google Map!
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Looking for more ways to beat the summer heat? Check out our Splash Pad Guide to find even more water-filled fun for the whole family.
If the sun’s just too much, we’ve got you covered with a list of Indoor Play spots where your kids can burn off energy in a cool, climate-controlled environment.
And of course, no summer day is complete without a sweet treat. Head over to our Cold Treats Guide for the best ice cream, snow cones, and frozen goodies across East Texas. Whatever you choose, there are plenty of ways to stay cool and make lasting memories with your family this summer!
If I missed any pools, feel free to drop the details in the comments, and I’ll be sure to add them to the list!