Yes, you read that correctly, waterfalls in Texas!
Granted, waterfalls probably aren’t the first thing that come to mind when you think of Texas, but thanks to the diverse terrain across the state, there really are some Texas waterfalls that are worth being added to your itinerary.
As Native Texans, we love visiting the waterfalls located throughout the Lone Star State.
Whether heading to a waterfall in the Texas Hill Country like Hamilton Pool Preserve, or the waterfalls of Big Bend National Park, we are always in the mood for some waterfall chasing.
Of course, some of these waterfalls cascade down into an amazing swimming hole, perfect for escaping the Texas heat, so keep that in mind when planning your trip!
Keep reading to discover some of the most visited waterfalls (and the best waterfalls) in Texas!
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Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park
One of the best Texas waterfalls (in our opinion) is the Gorman Falls waterfall.
Located in Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls will make you feel as if you have been transported to a tropical island. Seriously, during my first visit I asked myself if I was still in Texas!
After arriving at Colorado Bend State Park, visitors will need to complete a 3-mile round trip hike to make it down to Gorman Falls.
The hiking trails to Gorman Falls are pure Texas with cacti and plenty of uneven rocky terrain which can get slippery when wet, so keep that in mind.
Once you have ascended the rock facing down into the waterfall area, Gorman Falls won’t disappoint.
This Texas waterfall is a wide waterfall that cascades down the side of the mossy rock facing creating one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas!
While visiting Gorman Falls and the state park, be sure to take advantage of the miles of trails and the camping sites offered.
This truly is one of the best waterfalls in Texas!
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Madrid Falls, Big Bend Ranch State Park
Located on the property of Big Bend Ranch State Park, Madrid Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Texas, and actually the tallest waterfall in Texas open to the public.
Madrid Falls is difficult to get to and does require a four-wheel-drive-vehicle. This ensure that Madrid Falls is one of the least visited waterfalls in Texas also.
If you are up for hiking to the falls, then you are rewarded with beautiful scenic overlooks of the falls.
Entrance fees to this park are $5 for visitors 13 and older.
While you are in the Big Bend area, be sure to visit the small towns located here as well. These towns include Marfa, Alpine, and Terlingua!
Pedernales Falls, Pedernales Falls State Park
Another one of the popular Texas waterfalls is Pedernales Falls, found in Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City, Texas.
Located 1.5 hours north of San Antonio, it is no wonder that this is one of the fabulous state parks near San Antonio.
The falls at Pedernales Falls are not your typical tall waterfalls. Instead, these Texas waterfalls are spread across the river.
As the Pedernales River cascades over the limestone rocks, it creates a beautiful waterfall that also forms natural pools. These pool are loved by fishermen as the are home to many species of fish.
Getting to Pedernales Falls is an easy .5-mile hike on the Twin Falls Nature Trail.
While you aren’t allowed to swim directly in the falls, Pedernales Falls State Park does allow swimming and tubing on certain areas of the river. There are also several hiking trails available to explore.
Pro Tip: Pedernales Falls and the Pedernales River are prone to flash flooding. Be sure to heed all warning related to this during your visit.
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Mexicano Falls, Big Bend Ranch State Park
If you are visiting Madrid Falls, then don’t miss the opportunity to also visit Mexicano Falls. Located a short distance from each other on the Choro Vista Trailhead, this Texas waterfall is the third tallest in Texas.
Hamilton Pool Waterfall, Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool Waterfall is another of the best Texas waterfalls.
Located not far from downtown Austin, in the Texas small town of Dripping Springs, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a popular location thanks to the natural pool that this Texas waterfall empties into.
Granted, Hamilton Pool waterfall is not the tallest waterfall, but that doesn’t keep people from flocking to Dripping Springs to enjoy this Hill Country swimming hole.
Swimming in Hamilton Pool allows you to enjoy swimming under the waterfall that drops from 50 feet above.
Pro Tip: If you are planning to visit Hamilton Pool Preserve, be sure to make your reservations in advance as this Travis County park fills up fast in the summer! I mean, everyone wants to swim in Hamilton Pool!
Read Next: Driving From Dallas to San Antonio: Top Stops and Tips
Pine Canyon Waterfall, Big Bend National Park
Another of the waterfalls that require a four-wheel-drive-vehicle to see is Pine Canyon Waterfall in Big Bend National Park.
If you are adventurous enough to do the four-mile roundtrip hike, then you will be rewarded with this fun Texas waterfall in an area full of natural beauty.
Krause Springs, Spicewood
Another popular swimming area in Texas can be found at Krause Springs in Spicewood.
Located about 30 miles west of Austin, a visit to Krause Springs not only allows you to visit one of the fun waterfalls in Texas, but it also offers an opportunity to camp at a beautiful campground.
While Krause Springs is located on private property, paying guests are welcome to come and explore the area.
Krause Springs contains over 30 natural springs which empty into nearby Lake Travis, one of the best lakes in Austin!
In addition to the natural springs, there is also a man-made pool at Krause Springs to cool off in.
Visit their website for more information. Honestly, this area of Cypress Creek should definitely be on your list!
Read Next: Best Wineries in Fredericksburg, TX
Capote Falls, Marfa
Capote Falls in the tallest waterfall in Texas, dropping 175 feet.
Fed by Capote Creek, Capote Falls is, unfortunately, located on private property, so you need permission to visit.
If you are determined to see this West Texas waterfall, you can ask permission from the land owner or take a helicopter tour from the town of Marfa.
Westcave Waterfall, Westcave Preserve
A visit to Westcave waterfall and Westcave Preserve is the perfect stop on your Austin to Fredericksburg road trip as it is located between Hamilton Pool and Pedernales Falls.
Westcave Waterfall is a 40-foot waterfall that empties into a pool, creating a pretty little grotto behind it.
If you are planning to visit Texas Hill Country gem, take note that you can only do so on a guided tour.
Tours of Westcave Preserve Falls are offered on weekends. We recommend making as reservation prior to your visit to Westcave Preserve Falls as the tours fill up!
Visit their website for complete details and to make reservations for your visit to Round Mountain.
Read Next: 15 Fun Things to do in Marble Falls
Beef Creek Falls, Jasper
Beef Creek Falls in Jasper, Texas is located on Hog Creek that stands 15-feet tall.
The creek empties into the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, in East Texas. This fall does require a guided tour if you would like to visit.
Upper and Lower Falls, McKinney Falls State Park
Another fabulous waterfall near Austin, the upper and lower falls at McKinney Falls State Park offer visitor a chance to see another of the waterfalls in Texas and enjoy a day swimming and fishing in the state park.
Before heading out to the upper and lower falls of McKinney Falls State Park, take note that you need a reservation to enter. Once you arrive there is a $6 fee for visitors 13 and older.
Once inside, the hike to the falls is just over a mile.
After arriving at the falls, notice how the upper falls of Onion Creek offer great limestone cliffs for swimmers to jump off of into the cool water below.
During your visit to McKinney Falls, be sure to take advantage of the other amenities offered at the park including hike and bike trails, and fishing opportunities.
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Wildcat Hollow Waterfall, Dinosaur Valley State Park
Visitors flock to the small town of Glen Rose and Dinosaur Valley State Park to see the historic dinosaur tracks petrified in the Paluxy River, but few know that during times of heavy rain, they will also be rewarded with a great waterfall.
After paying your $7 fee (for ages 13 and over), follow the marked trailhead to the Wildcat Hollow Waterfall for a chance to catch this Texas waterfall.
The walk to this Lone Star State waterfall offers scenic views along the way, but remember the fall will only be flowing in times of heavy rainfall.
Window Trail, Big Bend National Park
Another one of the waterfalls in Texas that requires heavy rainfall to flow is the Window Trail in Big Bend National Park.
Big Bend is one of the best places to visit in Texas, so even if you don’t catch the waterfall, you will still have a great time in this national park!
In time of heavy rain, you can view the Windows Trail Waterfall from below along the Oak Spring Trail.
If there has not been rain in the area, then consider hiking the Window Trail to see the gorgeous overlook. The Windows Trail is an incredible hike offering incredible views through Oak Creek Canyon.
Pro Tip: Be careful when you arrive to the Window area of the trail. The rocks here are smooth and slippery, so approach with extreme caution.
Boykin Creek Waterfall, Angelina National Forest
If you find yourself in East Texas, then consider visiting Angelina National Forest, and the Boykin Springs Recreation Area.
Take a one mile hike on Sawmill Hiking Trail through the Boykin Springs Recreation Area to the small waterfall that is Boykin Creek Waterfall. Despite its small size, the waterfall offers a nice, relaxing setting for visitors to enjoy.
While here, be sure to enjoy the other amenities in the area including the picnic shelter, the campsites, and Boykin Lake.
Cattail Falls, Big Bend National Park
Another waterfall located in Big Bend, Cattail Falls’ location in the Chisos Mountains can be difficult to get to.
For those adventurous hikers, Cattail Falls, is a 3-mile hike that ascends the mountain slope. Once you arrive at Cattail Falls, you will notice where they got their name as the falls give the impression of cattails.
Pro Tip: Be prepared if doing the hike to Cattail Falls as the terrain is unforgiving. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. The area is also known to have black bears, so be on the lookout.
Read Next: 23 Fabulous Things to do in Corpus Christi
Blue Hole Park, Georgetown
A visit to Blue Hole Park in Georgetown, Texas rewards visitors with a visit to one of the widest waterfalls in the state.
Fed by the San Gabriel River, Blue Hole Park features a popular swimming area carved into the limestone of the area.
The beautiful emerald green water just invites you to jump in.
Don’t miss the town of Georgetown on your visit. Georgetown is one of the fabulous weekend getaways in Texas!
Airfield Falls, Fort Worth
Airfield Falls is located in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and is Tarrant County’s largest natural waterfall.
The trailhead to Airfield Falls is located in Westworth Village on Pumphrey Drive. This area is also home to native Texas wildlife and two Texas historic markers.
Chalk Ridge Falls, Belton
A great addition to your Texas road trip itinerary is Chalk Ridge Falls. This waterfall is great thanks to its easy access right off of Interstate 35.
Chalk Ridge Falls in Belton, Texas are one of the best waterfalls in the state thanks to this easy access and the beauty of the wide falls.
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Dolan Falls, Devils River Nature Preserve
Dolan Falls is on one of the prettiest rivers in Texas, Devils River.
The crystal clear water provided by Devils River makes it a popular destination for fishing and kayaking.
Located in the Texas Hill Country, Dolan Falls can only be accessed by a river trip down Devils River. Visitors who decide to do visit Dolan Falls are rewarded with a small waterfall cascading over the rocks of the river.
Take note that the land on each side of Dolan Falls is private property, so be sure you don’t trespass during your visit. Stay on the River State Natural Area!
Wichita Falls
One of the man-made falls on our list, Wichita Falls is still worth a visit if you find yourself near the town of Wichita Falls.
Located about 2 hours from Dallas, Wichita Falls makes for a fun and easy weekend getaway from Dallas.
Wichita Falls, which are located on a city park, Lucy Park, surrounding the Wichita River, provide a relaxing addition to the town park.
The falls are easy to find, just follow the Wichita River Trail from Lucy Park. The hike to the falls is less than a mile and the scenery in Lucy Park is pretty, so you will definitely enjoy the walk.
While here, be sure to explore the town of Wichita Falls as well.
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About The Author
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.
Han
Sunday 14th of May 2023
I imagine these waterfalls are the perfect thing during a hot summer in Texas! If I had to choose one on your list, I’d probably pick Hamilton Pool.
Terri
Saturday 13th of May 2023
I always try to visit waterfalls when I vacation (plus get out into nature). I need to check out these waterfalls on my next TX trip.
Natalie
Monday 6th of June 2022
I recently visited Texas and was pleasantly surprised by the nature! I only visited McKinney from this list though, so I'll have to see more of these next time I visit :)
texasonly
Tuesday 7th of June 2022
Yes, we have lots of nature and open space in Texas. We love McKinney! It's a great place to visit for sure!
Elizabeth Hilton
Sunday 5th of June 2022
I went to SMU and lived in Dallas for four years. I had no idea that Texas had so many beautiful waterfalls. I definitely need to visit some of these sites when I come back for my reunion. Thank you for putting this together.
texasonly
Sunday 5th of June 2022
Most people don't realize this, but it does. Texas is just full of surprises!
Bea
Sunday 5th of June 2022
I would have never thought that I would want to visit Texas because of its waterfalls but that's exactly how I feel after reading this amazing Texas waterfall guide. By far, the Hamilton Pool Waterfall, is number one on my Texas waterfall bucket list.
texasonly
Sunday 5th of June 2022
Yes, Texas is full of waterfalls. Most people don't realize this but it is true!