While Texas might not be known for waterfalls, there are actually some beautiful falls found here. From state and national parks to the local nature preserves, Texas has many beautiful and popular waterfalls that aren’t to be missed!
Here are our favorite Texas waterfalls.
Top 10 Waterfalls in Texas
Visiting Waterfalls in Texas
Pedernales Falls
Another great waterfall in a Texas state park is Pedernales Falls. Situated in Pedernales Falls State Park, this waterfall along the Pedernales River is best viewed from the scenic overlook about a quarter mile from the parking area. You can view the broad series of falls cascading over layered steps of limestone rock.
While it might look like a great place to take a dip, swimming is prohibited here. But don’t worry, there’s a designated swimming area farther down the river.
Things to do near Pedernales Falls
Take some time to explore the rest of the state park. There are many hiking and biking trails, a swimming area, and tubing, kayaking, and canoeing on the river. Pedernales Falls State Park is also just 30 minutes west of Austin.
Hamilton Pool Waterfall
Hamilton Pool Waterfall at the Hamilton Pool Preserve is a popular outdoor recreation spot located about an hour from Austin. This gorgeous waterfall plunges 50 feet over limestone cliffs into a sparkling green pool.
Due to safety concerns over falling rocks, swimming is not currently permitted at this waterfall, but you can check the official Travis County Park website for updates. There is an entry fee to the park and you can make reservations to see the falls.
Things to do near Hamilton Pool Waterfall
This waterfall is also located outside of Austin, and you’re close to Pedernales Falls State Park if you want to continue chasing waterfalls.
Cattail Falls
While Cattail Falls might not be the strongest waterfall, it’s a lovely waterfall located in Big Bend National Park that falls into a pool. The water level fluctuates and often is little more than a trickle, but after heavy rainfall, the water levels pick up.
This waterfall is tucked away in a quiet section of the national park, so if you decide to take the 5.7 mile out and back trail to the falls be sure to pack plenty of water, keep to the trail, and pack out anything you bring in.
Things to do near Cattail Falls
Explore the beauty of Big Bend National Park. Hike or mountain bike some of the trails, kayak down the Rio Grande, or check out the ranger led programs. Marfa and Alpine are about 100 miles north, and El Paso is just under 300 miles away.
Westcave Preserve Falls
The next waterfall on our list can only be accessed via a guided tour. The Westcave Preserve Falls are located in the Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center, a conservation preserve near Austin. This 76-acre nature preserve features a sheltered canyon grotto with a 40-foot waterfall plunging to a sparkling pool.
View their website for reservations to take this guided tour of beautiful fauna and scenery.
Things to do near Westcave Preserve Falls
This preserve is near the Hamilton Pool Preserve and Pedernales Falls State Park, so you can easily check 3 waterfalls off your list. It’s also just outside Austin if you’re looking for shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Dolan Falls
Deep in the remote part of southwest Texas sits Devils River State Natural Area and Dolan Falls. The state park and waterfall aren’t the easiest to get to, and typically only attract those ready for a hardy and intense adventure. However, if you’re ready for a multi day river trip down the Devils River, you’ll come across this waterfall just over 16 miles downstream from Baker’s Crossing.
Land surrounding Dolan Falls owned by the Dolan Falls Preserve is not open to the public. Visitors need to stay on Devils River State Natural Area that is open to the public and not cross into the Preserve.
Things to do near Dolan Falls
This area is pretty remote. The closest town is Comstock, which is 50 miles away. Explore the rest of Devil’s River State Natural Area while you’re here. San Antonio is over 200 miles to the east, and Big Bend National Park is 300 miles to the southwest.
Boykin Springs
Boykin Springs is a small waterfall along Boykin Creek in the Angelina National Forest. Follow the popular Sawmill Hiking Trail to this relaxing waterfall surrounded by nature. The hike is 5 miles round trip, but the waterfall is about 1 mile from the trailhead. The beautiful wildflowers and shady trees along this trail make it worth hiking past the falls and viewing the Aldridge Sawmill Historical Site.
Things to do near Boykin Springs
The Boykin Springs Recreation Area has plenty of things to do, including a lake for swimming, hiking trails, fishing areas, and camping. You’re also a short drive from the Sam Rayburn Reservoir if you’re looking for fun water activities. And Houston is 145 miles southwest.
Wichita Falls
Looking for a waterfall you don’t need to hike to? Wichita Falls in Lucy Park is your answer! Technically these are manmade falls, but they’re a beautiful place to relax while enjoying the park.
The Wichita River runs right through Lucy Park in Wichita Falls, Texas, and it’s a beautiful area full of shady trees, grass, and a pond area that’s full of waterfowl. While the original waterfalls washed away in the 1800s, these manmade falls are worth a visit. The scenic walk along the river leads right to the segmented 50-foot waterfall. There’s a viewing area and a bridge that spans the falls, a must visit for the perfect photo.
Things to do near Wichita Falls
Explore the River Bend Nature Center, which is a part of Lucy Park to learn about the local landscape and environment. Then check out the rest of Wichita Falls. Fort Worth and Oklahoma City are both just over 100 miles away.
Japanese Tea Garden Waterfall
Ok, so this is another manmade waterfall, but it’s worth seeing! The Japanese Tea Garden is a public park in San Antonio that was originally an old rock quarry. In the early 1900s the quarry was converted into a Japanese Tea Garden and has been expanded over the years to include gardens, walking paths, a koi pond, and a 60-foot waterfall.
Admission to the park is free, so spend some time wandering over the stone bridges through the flowers and take in the peaceful sounds of the waterfall in this relaxing garden.
Things to do near Japanese Tea Garden Waterfall
You’re already in San Antonio, so take some time to explore the city. You’re sure to find some amazing things to see, eat, and do while you’re there.
The Best Texas Waterfalls for RVers
Gorman Falls
One of the most popular waterfalls in Texas is Gorman Falls. This stunning waterfall is located in Colorado Bend State Park in the Texas Hill Country and can be seen by hiking a 3-mile round trip trail that traverses rocky terrain. Making the hike is worth it though, the 70-foot falls are incredibly picturesque and worth seeing.
Why This Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
We love that this state park features an onsite campground. This means you can stay right in the middle of the action and have easy access to the waterfall as well as everything else the park has to offer.
Things to do near Gorman Falls
Check out the rest of Colorado Bend State Park and the swimming, hiking, and fishing opportunities. There are also cave tours available which need to be reserved ahead of time.
McKinney Falls State Park
Right outside Austin is McKinney Falls State Park, which is home to the Upper and Lower Falls. Both of these waterfalls cascade into pools that can be easily accessed from parking areas. There’s also a trail that connects the two falls. While the falls are on the smaller side, the water flow is especially strong after a good rainfall.
The easy accessibility to these falls in the state park also make them a popular choice for locals and tourists alike.
Why This Waterfall is Perfect for RVers
Like the park above, McKinney Falls State Park features an onsite campground that makes it easy for RVers to set up camp. We also appreciate that this park is right outside the city, meaning you can have nature and city life all in one stay.
Things to do near McKinney Falls State Park
Like all Texas state parks, McKinney State Park offers plenty of other things for visitors to explore. Spend your afternoon hiking, biking, or fishing in either Onion or Williamson Creek. And be sure to stop by Austin while you’re there!
Planning an RV Trip to Texas
An RV trip is an excellent way to see the amazing waterfalls in Texas. Obviously, you’ll also want to see the best state parks in Texas and stay in the best campgrounds the state has to offer.
