Colorado Bend State Park

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Gorman Falls Colorado Bend State Park Texas

The lush, spring-fed paradise of Gorman Falls.

The Backstory

Nestled along the curve of the Colorado River in the northern Hill Country, Colorado Bend State Park is one of the most diverse outdoor destinations in the state. Offering six miles of river frontage, the park is a haven for tubing, fishing, and kayaking. However, the crown jewel of the park is undoubtedly Gorman Falls—a 65-foot living Christmas tree of a waterfall that looks like it belongs in a tropical rainforest rather than the rugged Texas brush.

The park is a place of second chances. On my first attempt to visit, I arrived without a reservation and was met with the disappointment of a "Park at Capacity" sign. It took months before I could finally return and secure my spot, and even then, I realized that a few hours isn't nearly enough time to see everything this 5,300-acre wilderness has to offer.

Why It Matters

Colorado Bend represents the wild, untouched side of Texas. It’s a place where you can go from deep, cool river waters to dark underground caves in a single afternoon. It reminds us that nature doesn't always operate on our schedule—you have to plan ahead to earn the views, and once you’re there, you have to respect the scale of the landscape.

🌊 At a Glance

  • Location: Bend, TX (West of Lampasas).
  • The Draw: 32 miles of multi-use trails and the stunning Gorman Falls.
  • Must Know: Day-use reservations are highly recommended and often mandatory on weekends.

Our Pro-Tip

Do not—I repeat, do not—show up without a reservation! Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife website weeks in advance. If you’re heading to Gorman Falls, be prepared for a rocky, 3-mile round-trip hike. It’s not a paved sidewalk, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water. If you have extra time, book a guided cave tour to see the hidden world beneath the park's surface.

Plan ahead, or the trail might have to wait for another day.

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