10 Amazing Waterfalls in Texas you must see + map to find them

The best Waterfalls of Texas are spectacular and beautiful, the perfect getaway for a relaxing day in nature with your beloved ones.

Texas is the second-largest state in the USA.

It has a lot of places where people can go to enjoy nature, like protected areas, national parks, and many other outdoor places.

Many people don’t even think about Texas when they speak about waterfalls, and this is a pity because here you can find some real hidden gems.

Across Texas, you can find an impressive number of waterfalls Tx, surrounded by thick vegetation and unique wildlife, so you don’t have to travel far from your hometown to see these amazing wonders.

Some of the Texas waterfalls are located on private property, so you will need special permission to visit them, while others are open to the public with no condition.

Make sure to bring enough water, snacks, and sunscreen with you to protect yourself from the hot Texas sun.

If you love nature and don’t mind hiking, check out the list of beautiful falls in Texas.

You should definitely add them to your travel plans!

The Lone Star State is home to a variety of natural wonders, from desert landscapes to lush forests. And hidden away in these diverse ecosystems are a number of beautiful waterfalls.

While some require a bit of effort to reach, trails lead to many of these hidden gems.

There are some really cool waterfalls in Texas.

If you’re looking for a nice hike or a refreshing swim, definitely check them out!

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The most beautiful waterfalls of Texas

1.  McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney waterfall in Texas is the most popular and loved waterfall in Texas.

Many people visit it all year round.

It is very close to Austin, making it extremely accessible for locals and tourists interested in visiting the second largest state of America.

Located just 30 minutes from Austin, McKinney falls are the perfect getaway for a trip in the middle of nature.

The waterfall is located in a state park that has the same name. There are many hiking trails nearby with different levels of difficulty.

This waterfall will not amaze you with its height, but with the force of the water, especially if you visit it after rain.

Two rivers, Williamson Creeks and Onion Creeks, meet at the falls. The water has strong currents.

The waterfall has two parts: 

• the Upper Falls with deeper waters and even some cliffs from where you can jump off,
• the Lower Falls with shallow water where you can find a rocky beach and climbing trees to protect you from the sun.

Because of its proximity to Austin and incredible scenery, the place becomes very crowded during summer, especially on weekends.

If you want to go to McKinney Falls Texas during high season, you should make a reservation before you go.

The entrance fee for one adult is 6 USD. Kids under 13 years old do not have to pay to enter the park.

Where to stay at McKinney Falls State Park

Homewood Suites Austin/South is our choice for your overnight stay when visiting McKinney Falls State Park. 

This aparthotel is beautiful and it is located near the park.

It is about 4 kilometers away from the park.

The aparthotel has an outdoor swimming pool and the suites are very spacious.

The suites have kitchens that have everything you need in them.

Breakfast is included in the room rate and for lunch and dinner, you can choose from eating out or cooking something delicious on your own.

2. Gorman Falls

Many visitors consider Gorman waterfalls of Texas as the prettiest waterfall from Texas.

It is located inside Colorado Bend, a State Park located close to Austin, about 2 hour’s drive from the city.

It is one of the most isolated falls in Texas, but it is worth getting here, even on a hot summer day.

To get to the falls, you will need to hike on a trail for 1.5 miles in the forest. The trail is in the middle of the forest.

The hike to the waterfall should take you about 90 minutes.

Make sure to bring enough water to drink and some snacks in case you get hungry.

The hike is not very hard. You will mostly be walking on a flat surface with trees on both sides.

The ground might be muddy, especially if it rains before you go to the park.

The trail is very easy to follow because there are signs at every crossroad and junction.

You will not get lost if you follow the signs.

There are rocks and trees around the waterfall, and the limestone around the falls is not stable.

Do not try to climb on the ridge that surrounds the falls.

Exploring the waterfall

The river’s water does not change much throughout the year, so you can visit any time.

Still, the waterfall is more spectacular after the rains, so we strongly advise you to visit Gorman falls anytime between April to September.

The waterfall is very tall, about 65 feet, and wide, about 650 feet. It would be hard to take a picture of the whole thing.

The water is very rich in carbon dioxide, which is why the limestone is packed with mineral deposits.

You are not allowed to swim in the pool, and please avoid walking on the edge of the cliffs surrounding the waterfall, as the travertine rock is quite fragile.

Access to the waterfall is not free, you will have to pay 6 USD per adult or have the Texas State Parks pass.

The good news is that you can take your dog with you on this hike as dogs are allowed in this state park.

Where to stay at Gorman Falls

Comfort Inn Wichita Falls North is conveniently located close to all major attractions in the area, including Gorman Falls.

The hotel features an outdoor seasonal pool, and clean and spacious rooms with coffee makers, irons, hairdryers, and cable TV, while breakfast is included in the room rate.

3. Pedernales Falls

If you are looking for a waterfall with an impressive height, then Pedernales waterfalls of Texas is not the right choice.

This waterfall Texas from Pedernales Falls State Park impressed me with its weight and the way it spread across the whole river.

This is one of the calmest waterfalls in Texas, closely located near the city of San Antonio, a perfect place to relax and reconnect with nature.

The waterfall is located about one hour away from Austin, and from the parking place to the waterfall is about 0.5 miles long.

Its unique scenery and beauty attract an impressive number of visitors each year, nature lovers and also hikers, as there are plenty of hiking trails in the area.

The trails have different lengths and degrees of difficulty, so you can easily spend a whole day in the park or camp overnight in the designated area to enjoy more of what this park offers.

These waterfalls Texas cover limestone rocks and create shallow pools, ideal places for fish to gather.

So, yes, Pedernales river is a great place for fishing so pack a fishing rod to catch something for dinner.

There is a short hike from the parking lot to the falls, and you have to follow a 0.5 miles trail that goes directly to the falls.

Or, if you want to explore more of the park, then you can take the 10-mile single-track trail and observe nature and the river.

Additionally, there are certain areas where you can swim or where tubing is allowed, and the park is open daily to the public.

Exploring the park and the waterfall

The entrance to the park costs 6 USD per person, but the area becomes very crowded during the summer season, especially on weekends.

The water level varies depending on the quantity of rain that drops, and certain areas are considered dangerous for a swim.

Still, there are designated places where you can swim, go tubing, or kayaking as there the water level and the currents are safe.

I would mention hiking, fishing, biking, camping in designated areas, and also swimming among the most popular activities around the waterfalls.

This is definitely a great place to relax, have fun, and spend quality time with your friends and families.

Where to stay at Pedernales Falls

Rock Cabin is my favorite vacation home in the area, conveniently located near the waterfall.

It features 1 bedroom and one kitchen, a dining area, and also a bathroom equipped with towels and bed linen.

The cabin is in the middle of nature, far from any city pollution.

You can listen to nature and watch the stars on a clear night of summer.

4. Cattail Falls

Cattail Falls is undoubtedly one of Texas’ hidden gems and among the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas.

The Chisos Mountains are located in the Big Bend National Park. You must park your car opposite Sam Nail Ranch, next to the Oak Spring Trail.

There are two options to get to this amazing waterfall in Texas:

– the long trail, a 12 miles hiking trail that passes near the most popular viewpoint from the area called the Window Trail

– the short trail, which is just 6 miles long and concentrates strictly on the falls

This is one of the waterfalls accessible only after a hike, so if you don’t feel comfortable with a small hike, consider visiting other waterfalls.

I can tell you for sure that the hike is not very difficult; it is well maintained and hidden inside the forest so you can listen to forest songs on your way to the falls.

The end of the trail has some amazing views. You will also see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Texas. It is a hidden gem in the mountains.

The area around the waterfall is very green. There are lots of rocks and plants.

This is a good place to see red cedar sage, red stream orchid, and yellow long spur columbine.

The area around the falls

The ecosystem around the waterfall is extremely fragile, so please act responsibly and show respect to nature.

The trail is quite long, and you definitely need good hiking shoes for it but worth the effort.

Black bears frequent the area, so don’t forget to make some noise on your way to the waterfalls and back.

There is no entrance fee into the park, so you can visit it anytime without spending any dollars.

Remember to bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat when you go to Texas in the summer.

It might get very hot there.

Where to stay at Cattail Falls

Golf resorts are beautiful places to stay and relax. They are just a few minutes drive from places like Cattail Falls.

Lajitas Golf Resort is the perfect choice for your stay as here you will find everything after a long day of exploring the area: Texan cuisine, a full-service spa, spacious rooms with modern furniture, and of course the golf course at international standards.

The Rio Grande River is close to the property. You can go horseback riding or hiking if you ask the hotel receptionist.

5. Krause springs 

This place has something magical and looks like a place from a fairytale.

The springs are located on private property, they are very well maintained, and all are hidden in lush vegetation.

32 crystal clear springs that look like small waterfalls fill in the turquoise swimming hole nestled inside the dense forest.

The water at the waterfall is always around 68 degrees Fahrenheit, making it a great place to swim all year round.

For more information about swimming at Krause springs, check this article.

This amazing place is one hour away from Austin. A lot of people like to go there, especially during summer.

To see the waterfall, follow a trail for 3 miles. The swimming hole is closer to the campground and you don’t have to go all the way to see it.

The pool has BBQ pits, picnic tables, a shower, and restrooms nearby. So come ready to spend the day outside with good food and lots of water to stay healthy.

Remember to bring a blanket, swimsuit, and sunscreen with you. You’ll be able to swim in a natural pool after hiking to the falls.

There is even a butterfly garden on the property, so I am sure you won’t get bored easily.

Where to stay at Krause springs

Comfort Suites Near Texas A&M Corpus Christi is the place where you should stay when visiting Krause Springs.

The hotel is conveniently located close to the springs and just a few minutes away from the Gulf of Mexico.

A delicious American breakfast is included in the room rate, with many delicious options and the rooms are spacious and clean and come equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers.

6. Mexicano Falls

With 80 feet in height, Mexicano Falls is the third-highest waterfall in Texas, so you definitely have to include it in your travel plans when in Texas.

The falls are located inside Big Band Ranch State Park, which lies about 1.8 miles from Arroyo Mexicano, it is one of the top waterfalls of texas.

The hike to this waterfall in Texas is incredible, with green vegetation, and the trail meets the flowing water several times along the way.

The hike is not difficult but you definitely need hiking shoes for this walk, and it is full of strange rock formations that appear from nowhere.

The entire hike is about 4 miles long (round trip) with minor elevation change, and during the warm days of summer, pay attention to snakes as they like to stay in the sun on the trail.

You can admire the falls from a distance or get close to them and see the beautiful oasis from the bottom of the waterfall.

Where to stay at Mexicano Falls

Riata Inn – Presidio is the closest accommodation you can find for exploring Mexicano Falls.

The motel has clean and spacious rooms, a private bathroom, and a beautiful outdoor pool.

Free parking is available on site, while the reception staff is extremely helpful with a big smile on their face.

These are the new essentials you have to pack for your trip

7. Westcave Preserve waterfalls

One of Texas’s most visited waterfalls is Westcave Preserve waterfalls, located off Hamilton Pool Road about one mile from the famous Hamilton Pool Preserve.

It is about 40 minutes away from Austin downtown and 20 minutes north of Dripping Springs.

The safest and easiest way to reach the falls is with a guided tour available on weekends and depending on weather conditions.

The waterfall has 40 feet in height, and it hides a small cave that could be explored on the guided tour.

At the bottom of Westcave waterfall, one of Texas’s most visited waterfalls, you will find a beautiful pool with clear and cold water.

The entrance to the park costs 15 USD for adults and 7 USD for children, while the guided tour is around 60 USD per person it includes a walk through the Texas Hill Country landscape, a tour of the grotto, and spectacular views of the waterfall and the caves.

It is one of the best day trips you can experience in Texas, and the caves and the waterfalls are more spectacular in reality than in photos.

Beware that the tour must be reserved in advance, so don’t just go there hoping that you will find a free seat, as the place is extremely popular, and the tour sells really quickly and many days in advance.

Although the hole located at the bottom of the waterfall looks extremely tempting, swimming is not allowed in the area, and if you want to swim, head to Hamilton Pools.

There are toilets at the entrance of the parks, and pets are not allowed inside, so leave your furry friends home.

Don’t forget to bring sun cream, a hat, and plastic bottles for water to stay hydrated all day.

Where to stay near Westcave Preserve waterfalls

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lakeway is the best choice for your night in the area.

The rooms are clean and beautiful, equipped with a desk, TV, and a private bathroom.

The hotel comes with a fitness center, a bar, and a shared lounge, and a delicious breakfast is included in the room rate.

8. Dolan falls

One of Texas best kept secrets, Dolan falls is undoubtedly one of the waterfalls in Texas that you have to see this year.

It is located in a protected area, and you cannot enter the preserve if you don’t have a special permit from the Devils River Nature Preserve.

Authorities try hard to preserve the environment and limit the human impact on nature, so this is the main reason you cannot walk freely in the area.

I cannot tell you how long the hiking trail is, but I can tell you that the hike is quite difficult so be prepared to sweat a little bit before reaching these amazing falls.

The river that fed the waterfall and the nearby springs are home to endangered species like salamanders and fish.

In the preserve area, you will meet an impressive number of birds and animals, including the rare black-capped vireo, and the area is home to many species of trees and plants like Mexican white oak and Texas snowbell.

If you don’t have permission to visit the preserve, then you need t stay on the Devils River State Natural Area that is open to the public and not cross to Dolan Falls Preserve land, where you need special permission.

Where to stay near Dolan Falls

Holiday Inn Express Del Rio, an IHG Hotel conveniently located close to Dolan Falls and Del Rio International Airport features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a hot tub.

The rooms are spacious and clean, and all come equipped with a microwave and fridge a delicious breakfast with pancakes, cinnamon rolls, and eggs is included in the room rate.

9. Wichita Falls

Wichita falls is one of the man-made waterfalls of Texas located inside Lucy Park and has a 55-foot drop.

There is a walking path and stairs along the falls so that you can get on top of it and admire the beauty of the place.

This waterfall looks like it belongs in the scene. You would never guess that it was man-made if you didn’t know it.

The building is called a multilevel cascade. It was built in 1987 on the south side of the Wichita River. You can see it from I-44 highway.

The falls are located inside a public recreation area with a beautiful trail that is 1.8 miles long.

It is the perfect outdoor destination for a day in nature.

You will find a pagoda near the waterfall, some playground equipment shaped like dinosaurs, and lots of trees.

Many people choose this place for their wedding because it is so beautiful.

You might see brides walking around during the day.

Where to stay close to Wichita falls

Conveniently located close to Wichita Park, Baymont by Wyndham Wichita Falls is the right choice for your overnight stay in the area.

The rooms are spacious and clean and come equipped with a fridge, microwave, and TV with HBO.

You have a fitness center on the property and a hot tub to relax after a long day in nature.

Breakfast is plentiful and varied; it is included in the room rate to start your day in a good mood.

10. Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs

Hamilton waterfall is without any doubt among the most popular waterfalls of Texas and it was named after the beautiful pool the water flows into.

It is about 50 feet in height and surrounded by lush vegetation, perfect for cooling off and hiding from the sun on a hot summer day.

The waterfall is conveniently located near Austin; the good news is that you can swim in the pool from the bottom of it.

For more details about Swimming at Hamilton Pool Preserve, check this article.

You have to pay an entrance fee to access the protected area, which is 11 USD per person.

Access to the area is permitted between 8.30 am, and 6 pm, and pets are not allowed.

If you want to swim in the pool, you need to make a reservation.

You should do it soon because a lot of people want to swim there and the slots are filling up quickly.

Where to sleep around Hamilton Pool Preserve

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Austin West/Lakeway is our choice for an overnight stay close to Hamilton Pool Preserve.

The rooms in the house are clean and have a lot of space. They each have their own bathroom.

The rooms also come with a microwave, coffee maker, TV, and hairdryer for your convenience.

The price of the room includes a continental breakfast. The fitness center and shared lounge are available for guests to use.

Conclusion

Texas, the second-largest state in the USA is full of incredible places and landforms that will take your breath away.

If you want to go somewhere to cool off, hike in nature, or discover new things, you should go to Texas.

These waterfalls of Texas are spectacular, and each of them has something unique, so I cannot tell you that if you see one, you don’t need to see the others.

Some of them are easy to reach while others are more inaccessible but trust me, they are worth the effort even on a hot summer day.

Take your hiking boots, enough water, and snacks, and hit the road as many beautiful surprises are waiting to be discovered. 

There are many more other Texas waterfalls, but these are the most popular and beautiful.
If you have enough time, you might consider Madrid falls and Airfield Falls as both of them worth paying a visit.

Map of Best Waterfalls in Texas

There are plenty of waterfalls to explore, from the well-known Austin waterfall to the lesser-known falls in west texas. Here’s a map of some of the most popular waterfalls in the state:

From east to west, here are some of the best waterfalls in the Lone Star State:

FAQ

Where is the biggest waterfall in Texas?

With 175 feet in height, the Capote waterfall is the tallest fall in Texas and is located in one of the state’s driest parts.

It is the main drainage system below the Rio Grande and Sierra Vieja, and mostly because of this, it has a constant flow all year round.

How many waterfalls are there in Texas?

Waterfalls are the last thing you have in your mind when speaking about Texas, but this state is home to more than 25 waterfalls spread all across its territory.

Some of these waterfalls are on private property, others are on public land and some are in protected areas and you need a special permit to visit them.

Are there any waterfalls in the state of Texas?

Yes, Texas is home to over 25 waterfalls spread all over the state. Each of these waterfalls is beautiful and unique; for some of them, you even need a special permit or to pay a fee to visit them as they are located in protected areas.