Summary
Texas may not be the first state that comes to mind when considering waterfalls; however, it boasts over 15 remarkable falls, some of which are situated on private property requiring special access for visitation.
Texas encompasses a diverse landscape, featuring deserts, oases, and lush vegetation, accompanied by a myriad of wildlife and several impressive waterfalls exceeding 75 feet in height.
1. Hamilton Pool Waterfall
Hamilton Pool Waterfall derives its name from the tranquil pond into which it flows. The river cascades over limestone cliffs, descending fifty feet into a crystal-clear pool that glistens emerald in the sunlight. Located near Austin, visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the cool water during the hot summer months. Although Hamilton Pool Waterfall is neither the widest nor the tallest fall in North America, it is renowned for its picturesque setting, rich vegetation, and inviting swimming area. This popular attraction, situated in Travis County Park, imposes an entry fee of $11. Operational hours are from 8:30 AM to 6 PM, and although reservations can be made for the pool area, pets are prohibited.
- Height: 50 ft.
- Hike Distance: 0.25 miles
- Location: Pedernales River, Travis County Park
2. Gorman Falls
Located within Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls offers an exhilarating hike along a steep trail, revealing the beauty of cypress trees and fern-covered rock faces as it tumbles down 65 feet. The delicate limestone surrounding the falls should not be climbed, as the falls provide a secluded escape into nature. This location is one of the few waterfalls in Texas that consistently flows year-round, even during the drier summer months. The hike to Gorman Falls entails an elevation change of 200 feet. To enter the state park, visitors must possess a Texas State Parks pass or pay a fee of $6. Additionally, this trail is dog-friendly.
- Height: 65 ft.
- Hike Distance: 3 miles (roundtrip)
- Location: Colorado Bend State Park
3. Westcave Preserve Falls
Westcave Preserve Falls is situated within a 30-acre preserve. Accessing these falls necessitates either a guided tour or comprehensive study of guidebooks. The waterfall cascades down forty feet over travertine columns (limestone deposits), showcasing the exquisite scenery of Texas Hill Country. Visitors are required to join a guided tour to explore the savanna, limestone grottos, and waterfalls, which feature a pool below, as well as access to a cave and canyon. Tours are subject to weather conditions and are typically scheduled on weekends, with fees of $15 for adults, $7 for children, or an annual pass for $75.
- Height: 40 ft.
- Hike Distance: Unknown
- Location: Westcave Preserve Falls
4. Boykin Springs in Angelina National Forest
Boykin Springs is a modest fall, measuring just under four feet in height. The rushing river flows over the remnants of the historical Aldridge Saw Mill, contributing a rustic charm to the cascading waters. The national forest offers various activities such as camping, fishing, hiking, and picnic facilities, with the falls located along the Neches River. The park features 85 miles of off-road vehicle paths and 200 miles of hiking trails, as well as various biking and equestrian routes. The Sawmill Hiking Trail leads visitors to the falls on a 6.5-mile roundtrip loop, with an elevation gain of 190 feet. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 6.5 miles
- Location: Boykin Springs Recreation Area, Angelina National Forest
5. Windows Trail
Windows Trail Waterfall, located in Big Bend National Park, features a modest spring that feeds the waterfall throughout the year, making it a beautiful place to spend a few hours. The trail leads to a creek flowing into the Rio Grande, offering a roundtrip hike of 5.2 miles with an elevation gain of 948 feet to reach the top of the waterfall. Starting near Terlingua, Texas, this moderate hike provides ample bird-watching opportunities from spring to autumn.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 5.2 miles
- Location: Big Bend National Park
6. Wichita Falls
The manmade Wichita Falls are situated in Lucy Park, adapted with rocks to create a 54-foot descent. The falls flow in multiple smaller segments, accompanied by walking paths and stairs that highlight the beautiful landscape. This carefully crafted site conveys a sense of natural beauty despite its artificial origins. The scenic area features substantial boulders and wooden elements, and it is frequently chosen as a picturesque wedding venue. Ample parking is available due to its location within Lucy Park, just off I-44.
- Height: 54 ft.
- Hike Distance: 1 mile
- Location: Lucy Park
7. Pedernales Falls
Pedernales Falls may lack significant height but compensate with their expansive spread across the river. Located within Texas Hill Country, Pedernales Falls State Park allows visitors to hike to the river for fishing opportunities. The waterfall spreads across limestone structures, creating multiple shallow pools for fish gathering. Access to the state park requires a fee of $6 per person, and it is open daily. Visitors can embark on a 0.5-mile trek to the Twin Falls Natural Trail or extend their hike along a 10-mile single-track trail to explore other sections of the river. The park permits tubing and swimming in specified areas.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 0.5 miles
- Location: Pedernales Falls State Park
8. Capote Falls
Capote Falls is located on private land in Marfa, necessitating visitors to obtain permission prior to approaching the falls. For an entirely unique experience, adventurers can opt for a helicopter ride for a spectacular aerial view of the waterfall cascading into the basin below.
- Height: 180 ft.
- Hike Distance: 0.25 miles to overlook, 1 mile to base
- Location: Marfa on Private Property
9. Beef Creek Falls
Beef Creek Falls necessitates a guided tour, as they are located on East Timberland close to the Sam Rayburn Reservoir. These impressive falls cascade down Hog Creek, showcasing the natural beauty of the area.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: Unknown
- Location: Jasper, Texas, on East Texas Timber
10. Cattail Falls
Cattail Falls receives its name from the cattail plants that dominate the surrounding landscape. This enchanting waterfall is located in the Chisos Mountains within Big Bend National Park. The trek to Cattail Falls is one of the more challenging options in Texas, as visitors must ascend a mountain slope. This 3-mile roundtrip hike begins in the arid desert and transitions into a lush oasis, where black bears are occasionally sighted.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 3 miles
- Location: Big Bend National Park
11. Krause Springs
Krause Springs is enveloped by a lush forest teeming with ferns and cypress trees. This series of waterfalls flows into a stream featuring a swimming hole, located within a campground. For day guests, the entry fee is $8 for adults and $5 for children. Reasonable camping fees apply, with RV sites costing $15. The roundtrip hike to the falls extends for 3 miles, though the swimming area is closer to the campground.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 3 miles
- Location: Cypress Creek near Spicewood, Texas
12. Dolan Falls
Accessing Dolan Falls requires prior approval from the Devils River Nature Preserve, which strives to mitigate tourist impact on its natural beauty. The challenging hike to the falls traverses the expansive Devils River, and visitors must remain within the public space of the Devils River State Natural Area to observe the falls, refraining from crossing into Dolan Falls Preserve without appropriate permissions.
- Height: 10 ft.
- Hike Distance: Unknown
- Location: Devils River State Natural Area
13. Madrid Falls
Madrid Falls is regarded as the second-highest waterfall in Texas, located near Lajitas. Visitors can undertake a 3-mile roundtrip hike to experience the splendid scenery that this site offers.
- Height: 100 ft.
- Hike Distance: 3 miles
- Location: Lajitas, Texas
14. Mexicano Falls
Measuring 80 feet in height, Mexicano Falls is the third-highest waterfall in Texas, situated in Big Bend Ranch State Park. Visitors may hike to the base of the mountain Ojito Adentro to view the falls or follow a mile-long trail to the canyon for a closer encounter. A gentle trickle creates a serene oasis in the canyon, enhancing the experience.
- Height: 80 ft.
- Hike Distance: 1 mile
- Location: Big Bend Ranch State Park
15. McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls, part of the eponymous state park, may not boast an impressive height; however, its water pressure, particularly following rainfall, is exceedingly robust. The convergence of Williamson and Onion Creeks at the falls creates smaller cascades over limestone formations. The park entry fee is $6. While the exact height of the falls remains unknown, visitors can traverse a 700-foot hiking trail to explore both the upper and lower falls.
- Height: Unknown
- Hike Distance: 700 ft.
- Location: McKinney Falls State Park
