What is a Swim Pond (Natural Swimming Pool)?
A swim pond (also called a natural swimming pool or recreational pond) is a chemical-free swimming pool that uses aquatic plants and beneficial bacteria instead of chlorine to keep water clean and clear. The regeneration zone (typically 50% of total surface area) filters water naturally, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem that is gentle on skin, eyes, and the environment.
Swim ponds cost $50,000-$200,000+ to build and save $2,000+ annually on chemicals and maintenance compared to traditional chlorine pools. They provide year-round beauty, support local wildlife, and increase property value.
Our Services
Natural Swimming Ponds
Chemical-free swimming with biological filtration. Custom designs from rustic naturalistic to modern architectural. Includes regeneration zones with aquatic plants for natural water purification.
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Natural Swimming Pools
Modern pool aesthetics with natural water treatment. Combines the clean lines of traditional pools with eco-friendly, chemical-free filtration systems.
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Recreational Ponds
Multi-use ponds for swimming, fishing, and wildlife. Perfect for larger properties wanting a natural water feature that serves multiple purposes.
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Design & Construction
Full-service custom design and professional installation. From initial concept through final landscaping. Includes 3D renderings and detailed project planning.
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Maintenance Services
Seasonal care, water quality testing, plant management, and equipment servicing. Keep your natural pond pristine year-round with expert maintenance.
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Consulting
Expert guidance for DIY projects, existing pond optimization, and property assessments. Get professional advice before breaking ground.
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Swim Pond Pricing
Natural swimming pond costs vary based on size, design complexity, and features:
- Starter Ponds (400-600 sq ft): $50,000 - $85,000
- Mid-Size Ponds (600-1,000 sq ft): $85,000 - $150,000
- Large/Luxury Ponds (1,000+ sq ft): $150,000 - $300,000+
Every project includes: custom design, excavation, liner installation, filtration system, plants, and landscaping integration. View detailed pricing information →
Request a free quote: (888) 671-3998
About Natural Swimming Ponds
31+ Years of Experience - Founded by Craig McBride in 1993, we are the Southwest's dedicated natural pond experts. We specialize exclusively in natural swimming ponds - we're not a landscaper who also does ponds.
- 50+ natural swimming ponds completed
- #1 Aquascape Largest Installer in Texas (2019-2021)
- Best Aquascape Builder in Texas (2022)
- Certified Aquascape Contractor (20+ years)
- Co-Founder, Pond Professionals Alliance
- Published author in Pond Trade Magazine
- Designer and builder of Texas' largest recreational swim pond
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What Sets Natural Swimming Ponds Apart
"We specialize exclusively in natural swimming ponds. We're not a landscaper
who also does ponds - we are the Southwest's dedicated natural pond experts
with 31 years of focused experience."
- Only Texas pond company with a dedicated maintenance department
- Each pond custom-designed, never templates or cookie-cutter designs
- Co-founder of the Pond Professionals Alliance
- Published author in Pond Trade Magazine
- Designer and builder of Texas' largest recreational swim pond
- We travel across the Southwest to study natural bodies of water for design inspiration
Warranty & Guarantees
We stand behind every project with comprehensive warranty coverage:
- 1-Year Craftsmanship Warranty - Full coverage on all installation work
- Manufacturer Warranties - All equipment (pumps, liners, filtration) covered
- Lifetime Support - Ongoing maintenance guidance and consultation
- 30-Day Water Quality Guarantee - Crystal clear water guaranteed after installation
Swim Pond vs Traditional Pool
| Feature |
Swim Pond |
Chlorine Pool |
| Chemicals |
None - 100% natural |
Chlorine, pH balancers, algaecides |
| Annual Maintenance |
$500-$1,500 |
$3,000-$5,000 |
| Skin & Eye Irritation |
None |
Common |
| Year-Round Beauty |
Yes - natural landscaping |
Often covered off-season |
| Wildlife Support |
Attracts birds, butterflies, dragonflies |
None |
| Property Value |
Increases significantly |
Moderate increase |
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to build a swim pond?
Most swim pond projects take 4-8 weeks from groundbreaking to completion, depending on size and complexity. Design and permitting typically add 2-4 weeks before construction begins.
Do natural ponds attract mosquitoes?
No! A properly designed swim pond has moving water and natural predators (dragonflies, fish) that prevent mosquito breeding. Stagnant water breeds mosquitoes, but our ponds have constant circulation.
Can I swim in a natural pond year-round?
In Texas and the Southwest, yes! Water temperatures are comfortable for swimming from April through October. Many clients add heating systems for extended seasons.
How much maintenance does a swim pond require?
Less than a traditional pool! Expect 1-2 hours per week during swimming season for plant care and skimming. No chemical testing, no chlorine management.
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What Our Clients Say
"Our swim pond is the centerpiece of our backyard. The kids love it, and we love that there are no chemicals. Best investment we've made in our home."
— Sarah M., Dallas, TX
"Professional from start to finish. The design exceeded our expectations, and the maintenance is so much easier than our old chlorine pool."
— Michael R., Austin, TX
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Our Work
Browse our portfolio of 50+ completed natural swimming ponds across Texas and the Southwest:
- Luxury estate ponds with waterfalls and grottos
- Modern architectural swim ponds
- Naturalistic recreational ponds
- Pool-to-pond conversions
- Small backyard swim ponds
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Natural Pond Glossary
New to natural swimming ponds? Our comprehensive glossary explains terms like regeneration zone, biofilter, aquatic plants, and more.