All the tips and reasons you should visit Colorado Bend State Park northwest of Austin, Texas.
Colorado Bend State Park offers unspoiled wilderness just two hours northwest of Austin, Texas. Gorman Falls, a living waterfall, is located at the park and is gorgeous to see! The state park is a great place to cool off during the summer (at Spicewood Springs), fish or paddle the river, or take a cave tour.
Visiting is a bucket list item and you can see more items on my Texas bucket list here. If you are looking to visit more state parks in Texas, click here.
What to do at Colorado Bend State Park
Colorado Bend State Park is a wilderness paradise with many different outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and caving. The most popular activity is the hike to the 70-food spring-fed Gorman Falls.
Hiking Trails
Colorado Bend State Park has over 35 miles of hiking trails. The most popular trail is Gorman Falls Trail which is a 3-mile round trip hike over rocky terrain with a steep descent to Gorman Falls. Other popular trails include Spicewood Springs Trail along breathtaking pools and waterfalls, and River Trail with dense canopy and river access.
Swimming
With one of the best swimming holes in Hill Country, Spicewood Springs is located after a short, flat trail. If you continue up the Spicewood Springs trail you will find more pools and waterfalls. Swimming is also allowed in the river.
On The Water
In addition to swimming, you can paddle up and down the river but the water is slow-moving and the water level can vary. When Lake Buchanan is near normal level, larger watercraft can travel from the park’s boat ramp to the lake. It is recommended that you call the state park for current conditions.
Fishing
You can go fishing on the river for some of the best bass fishing. The park also has a fish cleaning station You do not need a license to fish from shore or a fishing pier in a Texas state park. This makes a Texas state park the perfect place to try out your fishing skills.
Camping
The park offers several different camping options including drive-up sites, walk-in tent sites, and primitive hike-in sites. The drive-up and hike-in sites have water in the area but no hookups. In addition, the park does not have any sewage disposal facilities.
Tips for Visiting
- Bring plenty of water, hats/sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Central Texas is extremely hot during the summer, I highly recommend you hike early in the day or save your hiking for fall/winter/spring.
- Texas State Parks and Natural Areas currently utilize a park pass reservation system. Day passes for the weekends/holidays can fill up well in advance so be sure to book your park pass early.
