Wing-Chi Poon, Base of Gorman Fall like Raining, CC BY-SA 2.5
Texas is known for its vast landscapes, rich history, and diverse natural beauty. While many think of deserts and prairies when they think of Texas, the state also boasts some stunning hidden gems—waterfalls. Though waterfalls are not as common in Texas as in other states, the ones that do exist are remarkable. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, take a hike, or snap a great photo, these waterfalls offer something for everyone. Let’s explore some of the most amazing waterfalls in Texas, each offering its unique charm and experience.
Beef Creek Falls
Beef Creek Falls is located in the East Texas Timberlands, an area known for its thick forests and serene atmosphere. These falls flow into Hog Creek, near the Sam Rayburn Reservoir, which is one of Texas’ largest reservoirs. Because Beef Creek Falls are situated on private land, visitors must take a guided tour to access them. This provides an opportunity to not only see the beautiful waterfall but also to learn about the surrounding environment, which is rich in both flora and fauna. The nearby Sam Rayburn Reservoir is also a great spot for boating, fishing, and other water activities.
Boykin Springs
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Boykin Springs is located in the Angelina National Forest and features a small but charming waterfall that drops only four feet. The waterfall flows over rocks by the Old Aldridge Saw Mill, a historic site that adds a rustic flavor to the scene. Boykin Springs offers a variety of activities, including camping, fishing, picnicking, and hiking. The area is part of a 160,000-acre national forest with over 200 miles of hiking trails, 85 miles of off-road vehicle trails, and many horse and bike trails. The Sawmill Hiking Trail, a 6.5-mile round-trip loop, will take visitors to the falls and through scenic woodlands, providing plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.
Capote Falls
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Capote Falls is the tallest waterfall in Texas, standing at an impressive 175 feet. It is located near Marfa, a town famous for its art scene and mysterious “Marfa Lights.” The waterfall is on private property, so access is limited, but visitors can request permission to hike to the falls. For a more adventurous experience, helicopter tours are available, offering a breathtaking view of the falls from above. This provides a unique perspective, allowing you to take in the full scale of Capote Falls as it cascades into the pool below. The surrounding area of West Texas is also known for its desert landscapes and striking views.
Cattail Falls
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Hidden deep within Big Bend National Park, Cattail Falls is one of Texas’ best-kept secrets. The trail leading to Cattail Falls is about three miles long and can be challenging, but for those who enjoy hiking, it’s a rewarding trek. The trail winds through desert terrain before reaching the falls, where an oasis of greenery awaits. This is a great spot for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, as the area surrounding the falls is home to various species. The falls themselves are best visited during the spring or after rains, as they can dry up in the hotter months. The park’s remote location ensures a peaceful experience far from crowds.
Dolan Falls
Clinton & Charles Robertson from RAF Lakenheath, UK & San Marcos, TX, USA & UK, Devils River – Dolan Falls (174119268), CC BY-SA 2.0
Dolan Falls is located on the Devils River, one of the most pristine rivers in Texas. Access to Dolan Falls requires a permit, as it is part of a protected nature preserve. The area is managed by The Nature Conservancy, which seeks to protect the delicate ecosystem of the region. The falls are about 10 to 15 feet high, and their powerful flow makes them a dramatic sight. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the nearby Devils River State Natural Area. Because of the preserve’s efforts to protect the environment, it’s important for visitors to follow all guidelines to minimize their impact on the natural beauty of the area.
Gorman Falls
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Located in Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls is one of the most stunning waterfalls in Texas. The waterfall is 70 feet tall and features multiple cascades over limestone formations, creating a beautiful scene. Unlike other waterfalls in Texas, Gorman Falls has a steady flow year-round, but it’s particularly powerful after rainfall.
The hike to Gorman Falls is a 3-mile round-trip trek with a 200-foot elevation change, making it moderate in difficulty. The surrounding state park offers over 30 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, along with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and camping. The lush greenery around the falls adds to its beauty, making it one of the top natural attractions in the state.
Hamilton Pool
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Hamilton Pool Preserve, located just outside of Austin, is one of Texas’ most popular natural swimming holes. The 50-foot waterfall spills into a jade-green pool surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. Hamilton Pool was formed thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed, leaving behind this dramatic natural pool. The area is a favorite summer destination, but to preserve its beauty, the number of visitors is limited, and reservations are required. The preserve also has a short hiking trail that leads visitors down to the pool and offers scenic views of the Texas Hill Country.
Krause Springs
Krause Springs is a privately owned property located in the Texas Hill Country near the town of Spicewood. The property features 32 springs, some of which feed into the waterfalls and swimming holes that make this site so popular. Krause Springs is surrounded by lush vegetation, including cypress trees and ferns, creating a tranquil environment. There is also a man-made pool that draws water from the springs, making it a great spot for swimming. The grounds have RV and tent campsites, offering a peaceful retreat for those looking to spend a night in nature. The nearby town of Spicewood is also home to several wineries, making this a great stop for a weekend getaway.
Madrid Falls
Freakinout, Madrid Falls Texas, CC BY-SA 4.0
Madrid Falls is the second-highest waterfall in Texas, located in Big Bend Ranch State Park. The falls drop nearly 100 feet, creating a dramatic scene against the rugged desert backdrop. The park offers a challenging hike to the falls, but the journey is well worth it for those who enjoy solitude and wilderness. Madrid Falls is located in a remote part of West Texas, so visitors can expect to see very few other people, offering a truly peaceful experience. The surrounding area is also home to wildlife like bighorn sheep, and the dark skies at night make it a perfect spot for stargazing.
McKinney Falls State Park
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McKinney Falls State Park, located just outside of Austin, features two beautiful waterfalls—the Upper and Lower Falls. Both waterfalls flow over large limestone rocks, creating picturesque settings that are great for photography, swimming, and picnicking. The park also offers several miles of hiking and biking trails, along with opportunities for camping and fishing. McKinney Falls is one of the few parks in Texas where you can enjoy waterfalls so close to a major city, making it a popular weekend destination for Austin residents.
Mexicano Falls
Mexicano Falls, located in Big Bend Ranch State Park, is the third-highest waterfall in Texas at 80 feet. The falls are situated in a remote area, which means visitors will need to be prepared for a hike to reach them. The hike itself is about a mile long, leading through a scenic canyon. At the base of the falls, you’ll find a small pool surrounded by lush greenery, creating a surprising oasis in the middle of the desert landscape. The surrounding park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Pedernales Falls
Pedernales Falls, located in Pedernales Falls State Park, is a beautiful stretch of the Pedernales River where the water flows over massive slabs of limestone. The area is great for swimming, wading, and simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The park also offers hiking, biking, and camping opportunities. Visitors are advised to be cautious, as the river can rise quickly after heavy rain, making some areas dangerous for swimming.
Westcave Preserve Falls
Westcave Preserve Falls is located on a 30-acre nature preserve in the Texas Hill Country. The falls cascade over a 40-foot drop into a peaceful grotto surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees. Access to the falls is only available via guided tours, which ensures that the area remains pristine. The tour includes a walk through a limestone canyon and ends at the waterfall, where visitors can enjoy the cool mist and tranquil setting.
Wichita Falls
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Online: Photo: © Travis K. Witt, Licence: Creative Commons BY-SA 4.0, Source: Wikimedia Commons
In printed material: Photo: © Travis K. Witt, Licence: Creative Commons BY-SA 4.0 (URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/legalcode), Source: Wikimedia Commons (URL: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Reproduction_Waterfall_Wichita_Falls.jpg)
Abridgement: Photo: © Travis K. Witt, Creative Commons BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons, Reproduction Waterfall Wichita Falls, CC BY-SA 4.0
Wichita Falls, located in Lucy Park in the city of Wichita Falls, is a man-made waterfall designed to replicate a natural one. The 54-foot waterfall cascades over several levels of rocks, creating a lovely backdrop for photos and a relaxing spot for visitors to enjoy. The park is a popular place for families and offers walking paths, picnic areas, and a playground. The falls are also a popular spot for weddings, thanks to their picturesque setting.
Windows Trail
The Windows Trail Waterfall, located in Big Bend National Park, is a seasonal waterfall that flows during the wetter months of the year. The trail to the waterfall is a 5.2-mile round-trip hike with a 948-foot elevation gain, making it a moderate challenge for hikers. Even when the waterfall is dry, the hike offers stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert landscape.
Conclusion
While Texas may not be known for its waterfalls, the ones that do exist are truly special. From the towering Capote Falls to the hidden oasis of Cattail Falls, each waterfall offers its own unique beauty and experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, Texas’ waterfalls provide a perfect way to connect with nature and enjoy the state’s diverse landscapes. So, next time you’re in Texas, take a break from the city and explore these amazing waterfalls!
