Jacob's Well is one of the longest underwater caves and the most dangerous diving spot in Texas. From the opening in the creek bed, the cave descends vertically for about ten meters, then continues downward at an angle through a series of silted chambers separated by narrow restrictions, finally reaching a depth of forty meters.
It was first discovered in the 1850s when a couple of early settlers followed Cypress Creek to its source.
Since then, the location has been a beloved swimming hole and a a popular diving spot for thrill seekers despite the fact that at least eight divers have lost their lives here over the years.
It is a feature of the karst landscape of Central Texas and the headwaters of Cypress Creek. The extensive caving systems that are common in this region are the result of slightly acidic rainfall interacting with and eroding the limestone over millennia. The limestone caves and passage segments combine to form one of the longest underwater cave systems in Texas.
In 1924, Jacob’s Well was measured to have a flow of one hundred and seventy gallons per second (six hundred and forty liters per second) discharging water six feet into the air. Over the years, the well’s flow had diminished allowing divers to reach the deepest chambers. The spring ceased flowing for the first time in recorded history in 2000, and again in 2008.
The first time the spring stopped flowing, the event was considered by many as symbolic of the region's increasing water shortage and quality problems. “It was a wake-up call for everyone,” recalls landowner David Baker. “We don't want it to turn into Jacob's Cave." He has given up his home to form the Jacob’s Well Natural Area to restore and protect this sensitive area for future generations.
** Some of the photos are credited to Patrick Lewis
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