Waterfalls in Texas
Houston may be known for its urban sprawl, but surprising natural beauty lies just a day trip away. Cascading waterfalls in Texas surrounded by lush greenery beckon nature enthusiasts.
Take a dip in the refreshing waters of Hamilton Pool, a geological wonder with a unique grotto. Explore the hidden gems of Boykin Springs, a cascading oasis perfect for a secluded picnic. Or hike through McKinney Falls State Park and witness the power of Onion Creek cascading down moss-covered rocks.
Whether you seek a refreshing escape or an adventurous hike, Texas waterfalls offer an unforgettable experience. Check out our list of the best waterfalls in Texas near Houston to visit.
Best Waterfalls in Texas to Visit – Categorized by Waterfall Experience
Best Family-Friendly Waterfalls in Texas
Waterfalls of Texas – Hikers Paradise
Texas Waterfalls with Secluded Serenity
Quick Hit Summary of the Top Waterfalls in Texas to Visit
Beyond the popular Houston waterfall choices, there is a treasure trove of hidden waterfalls waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers.
Westcave Preserve is one of the most enchanting waterfalls in Texas. It beckons with its cascading waterfalls nestled amidst fern-grottoed wonderlands. Just know that access to this Texas Hill Country gem requires booking a guided tour in advance. I recommend booking a tour a few days in advance, spots can fill up quickly in the summer.
For those seeking a more challenging Houston waterfall adventure, Gorman Falls offers a rewarding payoff after a moderately strenuous trek. This 65-foot waterfall crashes into a vibrant green canyon, creating a secluded haven for nature lovers.
Dolan Falls presents a unique experience with its tiered cascades nestled within the Devils River State Natural Area. While the falls themselves reside on private property, the surrounding park offers plenty of exploration opportunities.
With that, get your hiking shoes prepped and get ready to be amazed at the splendor and beauty that these waterfalls in Texas offer.
Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.
Also, check out our posts on 20 Swimming Holes in Texas and 20 Best Road Trips from Houston.
Best Family-Friendly Waterfalls in Texas
Hamilton Pool Waterfall
Hamilton Pool Waterfall | Image Credit: Hamilton Pool Preserve
Hamilton Pool is one of the best waterfalls in Texas. Located in the Dripping Springs area, a short drive from Austin, this natural beauty gives you the feeling that you’re in a whole other world. The pool is a collapsed grotto with nice water, gorgeous rock formations around the edges, and a 50-foot waterfall that’s perfect for cooling off.
Location: 24300 Hamilton Pool Rd, Dripping Springs, TX 78620
Cost: $12 per vehicle; $8 per adult (13-61 years old), $3 per senior (62 and older), Kids 12 and under are free
Morning Reservation Period: 9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Afternoon Reservation Period: 2:00 pm – 5:30 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 3 hrs. & 10 mins.
Krause Springs
Krause Springs
Krause Springs is a beautiful waterfall and swimming site in the Hill Country. It’s been around since 1955, and the area has a ton of natural sites and springs to explore. It’s a great place to enjoy nature and cool off on a hot summer day.
Location: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669
Cost: $10 for adults (12 & older), $6 for kids ages 4-11, Kids 3 and younger are free
Falls availability: Opens Daily 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 3 hrs. & 6 mins.
McKinney Falls State Park
Image Credit – McKinney Falls State Park
This one’s located in the backyard of Austin. The Mckinney Falls State Park and consists of the Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges and splashing into pools. You can follow trails winding through the Hill Country woods and explore the remains of an early Texas homestead and a very old rock shelter.
Location: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
Cost: Adult: $6 Daily, Child 12 Years and Under: Free
Open: 8 am – 10 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 2 hours & 20 minutes
Pedernales Falls
Pedernales Falls
While this isn’t one of your typical waterfalls in Texas, Pedernales Falls is wide and spread across the river. The river is a great spot for fishing as the falls create these little pools where fish tend to gather. While the river can be turbulent at times, it’s usually very tranquil and relaxing. Please make sure you have a reservation before you drive out to the park as day passes sell out quickly.
Location: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
Cost: $6 for adults; Kids 12 and under are free
Falls availability: Opens Daily: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 3 hrs. & 14 mins.
Waterfalls of Texas – Hikers Paradise
Gorman Falls
Image Credit: tpwd.texas.gov
Located at Colorado Bend State Park, Gorman Falls runs 65 feet down plant-covered limestone walls and feeds into the Colorado River. You can hike up above the falls and see where the spring comes out of the ground. These falls are off-limits to swimming, but they are definitely still worth seeing in person. Learn more on the Colorado Bend State Park website.
Location: 2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824
Cost: $5 for adults, kids 12 and under are free
Falls availability: Opens Daily 6:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 4 hrs. & 5 mins.
Cattail Falls at Big Bend Park
Cattail Falls | Image Credit: Visit Big Bend
Cattail Falls earned its name because the falls look like cattails. Located in the Chisos Mountains at Big Bend Park, the falls require a 3-mile round trip hike to reach, but there are some great views along the way, especially as you get up close to the falls. We love this Houston waterfall!
Location: Texas 79834
Cost: Big Bend Entrance Fee: Vehicle – $30 | Motorcycle – $25 | Individual – $12
Driving time from Houston: ~ 9 hrs. & 23 mins.
Hueco Tanks State Park
While Hueco Tanks State Park is known primarily for its unique rock formations and historic rock art, it also features some small waterfalls and pools after rain events.
Location: 6900 Hueco Tanks Road No. 1, El Paso, TX 79938
Cost: $7 Daily | Child 12 Years and Under Free
Hours: Monday – Thursday: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm | Friday – Sunday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 10 hrs. & 34 min.
South Llano Falls
South Llano Falls is a series of cascades and rapids along the South Llano River. This is located near Junction, Texas, and is one of the best waterfalls in Texas that offers a scenic spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
Locations: 1927 Park Road 73 Junction, TX 76849
Cost: $5 Daily | Free for children 12 years and under
Hours: Open Daily: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 4 hrs. & 32 mins.
Hog Creek Falls East
Image Credit: daytrippintexas.com
Hog Creek Falls East is a scenic 15-foot fall in northern Jasper County. It is located on one of Hog Creek’s numerous branches, which like nearby Beef Creek and its branches, are feeder streams to the Angelina River below Lake Sam Rayburn dam.
Location: Hog Creek Falls East in Northern Jasper County
Driving time from Houston: 3 hrs. & 3 mins.
Chalk Ridge Falls
Chalk Ridge Falls is a beautiful waterfall and hiking destination situated along the Lampasas River. The falls are surrounded by rocky cliffs and lush vegetation, offering a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. The trail system in the area allows visitors to explore the surrounding natural beauty, including the cascading waterfall and scenic river views.
Location: 5600 FM 1670 Belton, TX 76513
Hours: Daily: 8:00 am – 7:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: 2 hrs and 54 mins.
Texas Waterfalls with Secluded Serenity
Westcave Waterfalls
Westcave Waterfalls | Image Credit: Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center
The Westcave Preserve Falls are located on the 30-acre Westcave Preserve in the Texas Hill Country, a gorgeous nature preserve with a grotto, canyon, and cave. You can hike to the fall by yourself or with a guide.
Location: 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd, Round Mountain, TX 78663
Cost: Varies depending on activity
Grotto/Falls availability: Wednesday – Thursday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | Friday – Sunday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Driving time from Houston: ~ 3 hrs. & 2 mins.
Boykin Springs
Image Credit: fs.usda.gov
This small waterfall is only a few feet in height, but it’s a serene area, and the national forest has plenty of fishing, hiking, camping, and picnic areas to enjoy. These falls are part of the Neches River and the area is the trailhead for the Sawmill Hiking Trail.
Location: Texas 75980
Cost: Camping – $10 per campsite per night (includes parking for up to 2 vehicles) | Shelter Rental – $25 per day (reserve at www.recreation.gov) | Day-Use – $5
Driving time from Houston: ~ 2 hrs. & 19 mins.
Dolan Falls
Dolan Falls | Image Credit: The Nature Conservancy
Dolan Falls Preserve is one of the waterfalls in Texas not open to the general public. However, the neighboring Devils River State Natural Area welcomes visitors throughout the year and boasts the same riverfrontage and habitat found in the preserve. So, to see Dolan Falls, you’ll need permission from the Devils River Nature Preserve as they limit the number of tourists allowed to preserve the area, or you can use the adjacent Devils River State Natural Area that shares some of the same riverfrontages. The hike to get to the falls can be pretty challenging, but the falls are absolutely beautiful once you arrive.
Location: Texas 78837
Cost: $5 per day for day use fee
Open: Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Driving time from Houston: ~ 6 hrs. & 49 mins.
Capote Falls
At a towering 175 feet high, Capote Falls is the tallest waterfall in Texas. Because the falls are the main drainage below the Rio Grande Rift and Sierra Vieja, these falls flow consistently all year long. However, there is a catch. This waterfall is located on private property, so you have to either get permission to hike to the falls or you can opt to take a helicopter flight over the falls.
Location: Texas 79843
Driving time from Houston: ~8 hours and 30 minutes
Madrid Falls
Madrid Falls is a 100-foot waterfall located in Big Bend Ranch State Park, about 4 hours and 45 minutes from Houston. The falls are located in a remote area of the park, and the driving distance is 277 miles. The falls are only accessible by a moderate hike, and the round-trip hike is about 4 miles. The best time to visit Madrid Falls is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild.
Location: Texas 79846
Falls availability: The falls are open year-round, but the trail may be closed during periods of heavy rain.
Driving time from Houston: 11 hrs. & 11 mins.
Airfield Falls
Image Credit: trinitytrailsfw.com
Airfield Falls is a small but beautiful waterfall nestled within the Oakmont Park area of Fort Worth. The falls are formed by the West Fork of the Trinity River cascading over rocks and creating a serene and picturesque setting. The surrounding area is lush with trees and vegetation, providing a tranquil escape from the city.
Location: 00618209, Westworth Village, TX 76114
Accessibility and Hours: The park has designated hours of operation, which typically vary seasonally.
Driving time from Houston: 3 hrs. & 48 mins.
Lost Maples Falls
Lost Maples State Natural Area is known for its stunning fall foliage, but it also features small waterfalls and cascades along the Sabinal River. The falls may vary in intensity depending on the water flow.
Location: 37221 RM 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885
Cost: $6 Daily | Free for children 12 years and under
Hours: Daily: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
Driving time from Houston: 4 hrs. & 24 mins.
Wichita Falls
Wichita Falls is a city located in North Texas, but it does not have a waterfall within its immediate vicinity. The name “Wichita Falls” refers to a series of waterfalls on the Wichita River that were submerged when Lake Wichita was created in the early 20th century.
While Wichita Falls doesn’t have natural waterfalls, it is home to a man-made waterfall and a popular recreational area called the Wichita Falls Multi-Purpose Events Center (MPEC). The MPEC features a man-made waterfall called the Falls of Wichita, which is located outside the Kay Yeager Coliseum.
Location: Wichita Falls
Driving time from Houston: 5 hrs & 13 mins.
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