Colorado Bend State Park

Water cascades 70 feet over a moss-covered cliff, the spray catching Texas sunlight in a mist of rainbow colors. Below, travertine terraces glow like something from another world. This is Gorman Falls—one of the most spectacular waterfalls in Texas, and the crown jewel of Colorado Bend State Park. But the falls are just the beginning of what makes this remote Hill Country preserve extraordinary.

Welcome to 5,328 acres where the Colorado River meets the limestone heart of Texas. Beneath the cedar-covered hills hide over 400 caves—explored on guided Wild Cave Tours where you’ll crawl, climb, and squeeze through ancient passages. Above ground, 35 miles of trails wind through canyons and meadows, past swimming holes like Spicewood Springs that rank among the best in Hill Country. This is Texas untamed—no cell service, no crowds, just pure wilderness adventure.

What Makes Colorado Bend Legendary

Entry Fees

Gorman Falls

The 70-foot Gorman Falls is fed by Gorman Creek and flows year-round. The water deposits minerals as it cascades, creating stunning travertine terraces—living rock formations that glow emerald and gold.

Wild Cave Tours

Colorado Bend contains over 400 caves—one of the highest concentrations in Texas. Rangers lead guided Wild Cave Tours where you’ll crawl, climb, and squeeze through passages to experience the underground world.

Spicewood Springs & Swimming

Spicewood Springs is one of Hill Country’s best-kept secrets—a series of spring-fed pools perfect for swimming on hot Texas days. Multiple pools mean you can often find a quiet spot even on busy weekends.

• 🏊 Spicewood Springs: Multiple pools, crystal-clear spring water
• 🌊 Colorado River: 6 miles of river frontage for swimming and floating
• 💧 Temperature: Spring-fed pools stay cool year-round (~68°F)
• ⚠️ No Lifeguards: Swim at your own risk

Hiking & Biking Trails

With 35 miles of multi-use trails, Colorado Bend is a destination for serious hikers and mountain bikers alike.

Birding

With 155+ documented bird species, Colorado Bend is a premier birding destination. The diverse habitats—river, canyon, and woodland—attract both resident and migratory birds.

• 🐦 Golden-cheeked Warbler: Endangered species nests here in spring
• 🐦 Black-capped Vireo: Another endangered Texas specialty
• 🦅 Bald Eagles: Spotted along the Colorado River
• 📋 Bird Checklist: Available at park headquarters

Fishing

The Colorado River runs for 6 miles through the park—excellent for bass, bluegill, and catfish. A fish cleaning station is located near the river.

Camping

👧 Junior Ranger Program

Kids can explore and earn badges! Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with nature tools, or pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at headquarters. Complete the activities during your visit to earn a badge.

When to Visit

🌸 Spring (March – May)

BEST TIME! Wildflowers blooming. Gorman Falls at peak flow. Perfect swimming weather. Book ahead—very popular.

Best for: Gorman Falls, wildflowers, hiking

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Hot! But Spicewood Springs and the river provide relief. Come early to avoid heat. Cave tours are cooler underground.

Best for: Swimming, cave tours, early morning hikes

🍂 Fall (September – November)

Excellent. Crowds thin, weather cools. Great for extended hiking and biking. Fall color in canyons.

Best for: Hiking, mountain biking, camping

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Mild Texas winters. Fewer visitors, solitude on trails. Springs still flow. Cave tours continue.

Best for: Solitude, cave tours, fishing

Practical Information

🌡️ Climate

Getting There

• 📍 Address: 2236 Park Hill Drive, Bend, TX 76824
• 📍 From Austin: ~2 hours northwest via US-183
• 📍 From San Antonio: ~2.5 hours north via I-35 and US-183
• ⚠️ Remote Location: Fill up on gas; no services nearby

🏞️ Nearby State Parks

• 🏊 Inks Lake State Park: Swimming, paddling, camping (~45 min)
• 🦇 Longhorn Cavern State Park: Cave tours in different geology (~1 hr)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you swim at Colorado Bend State Park?

Yes! Spicewood Springs has multiple spring-fed pools perfect for swimming. The Colorado River also offers 6 miles of swimming and floating opportunities.

Do you need reservations for Colorado Bend State Park?

Highly recommended. Day-use reservations are essential on weekends and during peak season. The park reaches capacity and turns visitors away. Wild Cave Tours require separate advance booking.

How much does it cost to get into Colorado Bend?

$5 per adult (13+). Children 12 and under are free. Texas State Parks Pass ($70/year) covers unlimited entry.

Are dogs allowed at Colorado Bend State Park?

Yes, but only in designated areas and must be on a leash. Contact the park office for specific restrictions before bringing pets.

How long is the hike to Gorman Falls?

3 miles round-trip. The trail is rated moderate to strenuous with some steep sections. Allow 2-3 hours for the round trip including time at the falls.

Where is Colorado Bend State Park located?

In the Texas Hill Country, about 2 hours northwest of Austin. The park is remote—nearest towns are San Saba and Lampasas (~30 miles). No cell service in the park.

Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The America's State Parks Editorial Team has collectively explored 800+ state parks across all 50 states. Our park profiles are carefully researched using official state park data, verified visitor information, and first-hand observations from our writers and contributors. Each article is fact-checked against official sources and updated regularly to ensure accuracy. Our mission is to help every American discover the natural wonders in their own backyard.

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