Best Waterfalls In Texas To Visit And Swimming Holes For The Most Fulfilling Experience

In 2025, we lost Victor Emanuel, the top-notch birder and the founder of the Austin ecotourism company. 

Now, one month after his passing, it is the ideal time to have an in-depth discussion about the ecotourism scenario of Texas, a state he called home. 

The ecotourism industry in Texas has experienced significant growth over the past few years. Further, it is an important element in the tourism and economic landscape of the state, generating employment and revenues. 

Again, ecotourism in Texas is a part of sustainable tourism in the state, emphasizing the importance of ethical and responsible travel practices. 

The waterfalls in Texas, located in state national parks and other locations, are important components of ecotourism in the state. These waterfalls are often at the epicenter of diverse ecosystems. 

Moreover, many of these waterfalls are part of bigger conservation projects, playing a bigger role in the environmental protection of the state. 

By now, you must have an idea that this Tour and Travel Blog is going to be about the best waterfall in Texas. 

So, let’s explore!

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Best Waterfalls In Texas?

What Is The Best Time To Visit The Best Waterfalls In Texas

Spring is the best time to visit the best waterfalls in Texas. During March and April, the waterfalls receive adequate water from rainfall in the winter season and melting snow. 

Further, the summer months from May to August are a good time to explore the waterfalls in Texas. The cascading water with mists around offers a cool escape in the scorching summer of Texas.

What Are The Best Waterfalls In Texas? 

Today, we mostly associate Texas with stunning urban areas and the most dramatic desert landscape. 

However, we often overlook the beautiful waterfalls and swimming holes in the state, offering the right fusion of adventure and immersive experience for tourists.

1. Gorman Falls

  • Location: Colorado Bend State Park
  • Height: 70 Feet
  • Hours Open: 6 AM to 10 PM
  • Entry Fee for Adults: $5, Children below 12: Free Entry

Gorman Falls near Dallas is so grand that you cannot capture the whole of it in a single frame. Further, Gorman Falls is a popular hiking destination with a rocky trail. 

Moreover, various springs and Gorman Creek feed this waterfall, and the pool near the fountain is home to Guadalupe bass fish. 

2. Cattail Falls

  • Location: Big Bend National Park
  • Height: 80 Feet
  • Hours Open: 24*7
  • Entry Fee: Standard Pass – $15.00–$30.00

Cattail Falls is one of the hidden gems when we talk about the best waterfalls in Texas. It is a popular hiking destination for adventurous tourists. 

The hiking trail is 3 miles long, and hiking is tricky through the trail. However, a glimpse of the waterfall falling as multiple streams of water is worth the effort.

3. Westcave Preserve Falls

  • Location: Hamilton Pool Road
  • Height: 40 Feet
  • Hours Open: Tuesday-Friday: 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM, Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
  • Entry Fee: $20 for Adults 16+ and $10 for Children Aged 4-15 years

Westcave Preserve Falls is the ultimate fantasy destination with stories of unicorns floating in the air. 

Further, this waterfall is pristine, and the little cave here creates a sense of intrigue.

4. Chalk Ridge Falls

  • Location: Belton
  • Height: Around 206 Feet
  • Hours Open: 8 AM to 6 PM
  • Entry: Free

If you are looking for a tranquil getaway, Chalk Ridge Falls in Belton will be your go-to destination. 

Surrounded by trees, Chalk Ridge Falls exudes a pristine charm. Also, you will love swimming in the shallow side of the lake.

5. Pedernales Falls

Pedernales Falls
  • Location: Pedernales Falls State Park
  • Height: 50 Feet
  • Hours Open: 8 AM to 10 PM
  • Entry Fee: $6 for 13 Years And Above, Free Entrance for Children Aged 12

Located near San Antonio, Pedernales Falls is all about finding peace. The sound of the water is music to the ears. 

Here, you can bike and hike around the trail and swim in the calmest water. 

6. Hamilton Pool Waterfall

Hamilton Pool Waterfall
  • Location: Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs
  • Height: Around 50 Feet
  • Hours Open: 9 AM to 12:30 PM and 2-5:30 PM
  • Entry Fee: $8 for Adults and Free for Children Below 12 Years 

Hamilton Pool Waterfall has been formed with the creek spilling streams of water over limestone structures. 

There is a beautiful pool below the waterfall in a canyon. You can reach Hamilton Pool Waterfall after a hike of 1.9 miles through a moderately challenging route.

7. Krause Springs

  • Location: Spicewood Road
  • Height: 8 Feet
  • Hours Open: 9 AM to 8 PM (Usually Closed between November 1st and February 15th for Maintenance.)
  • Entry Fee: $10 for 12 Years and Old, $6 for Children from 4 to 11 Years, and Free for Kids Under 4 Years

A property of the Krause Family for the last 50 years, Krause Springs has 32 springs. Furthermore, the waterfall here enhances the appeal of the serene landscape. 

You can swim in the pool, camp, or even hike the small trail to spend some time in nature. Also, do not forget a walk in the beautiful butterfly garden. 

8. McKinney Water State Park

McKinney Water State Park
  • Location: Austin
  • Hours Open: 8 AM to 10 PM
  • Entry Fee: $6 for 13 Years and Above, Free for Children up to 12 Years

Home to the Onion Creek, McKinney Water State Park has the Lower and Upper Falls. You can reach the waterfalls fed by the water of the Onion Creek by hiking through endless trails here. 

Moreover, the gigantic bald cypress tree, or Old Baldy, stands as the eternal witness to humankind in this state park. 

What Are The Best Swimming Holes In Texas?

Do you want to escape the summer heat of Texas? Why don’t you plan a trip to these amazing swimming holes?

These swimming holes are ideal for a fun time with family and friends.

1. Barton Springs Pool

Barton Springs Pool is located in Zilker Park in Austin. Fed by spring water, this 1000-foot-long pool maintains a temperature of 68 degrees F throughout the year. 

It is a perfect summer escapade for families. 

2. Devil’s Waterhole

Located in the Inks Lake State Park, Devil’s Waterhole is a popular swimming hole in Texas. You can also hike through the canyon in the Inks Lake State Park.

Further, you can plan camping and overnight stays in this beautiful state park. 

3. Blanco State Park

Blanco State Park has a dam that creates a beautiful lagoon and waterfall. You can swim here and indulge in the scenic beauty. 

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Meet Sibashree Bhattacharya, a travel enthusiast who has a decade-long experience in transcending virtual barriers with her words! Her deep love for travel is apparent from her travel escapades to the mountain, often taking her readers on a journey, her words acting as Portkey! Fun fact: Sibashree loves to dive deep into the history of the places she is about to visit, making her travels even more wholesome. If you were wondering how her articles are not short of time travel, this answers it!

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BY  Abdul Aziz Nov 11, 2021

Finding the right summer destination that offers a wide array of activities for all your family members can be a daunting task. However, opting to go for vacation in Myrtle Beach for the summer is a decision you will most definitely not regret. For years, millions of travelers have been thronging Myrtle beach during the summer holidays. Myrtle Beach offers tourists extensive tourist attraction sights, a favorable subtropical climate, and numerous festivals and cultural events in the beach city (features that check all the boxes for any traveler). Read now to find top reasons why this beach city is highly favored as a top summer destination. Here are the top reasons Why Myrtle Beach Is the Ideal Summer Destination Regardless of whether you're looking for a solo getaway or merely looking for a family excursion with family, Myrtle Beach should have you covered. So what makes Myrtle Beach stand out from the rest? Can you guess how long myrtle beach is? 60-mile long beach is the greatest tourist attraction. Here are the prime reason for choosing Myrtle beach as the ideal summer destination. 1. The Extensive Beach One of the best places you can spend your summer is on the beach. This is why millions of people visit Myrtle Beach every summer to enjoy the extensive sandy beaches. Myrtle Beach has access to a coastline that extends for about 60 miles from Cherry Grove all the way to Surfside beach. Once your toes sink into the sand of the beach, you will forget every concern or worry you have in your mind and will be taken aback by feelings of serenity thanks to the calming sounds of the cool ocean water. Many travelers are asking about how many hours to myrtle beach, South Carolina, only 9 hours drive. The long stretch of coastline makes it great for travelers to indulge in water activities and games along the beach. 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Starbucks – Best Review By Users In 2022 [Genuine Information]

BY  Barsha Mar 2, 2022

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Cruise In Alaska Is Ready To Create New Records: Know Why!

BY  Mashum Jan 26, 2021

A cruise in Alaska is one of the most immersive ways of taking in all the beauty that the state has to offer.  It is one of the best multigenerational vacation ideas you can think of.   Further, cruising in Alaska is crucial for the economy. For example, Juneau has been one of the most popular cruising ports in Alaska.   The City and Borough of Juneau (CBJ), in association with the McKinley Research Group, has conducted research on the “ECONOMIC IMPACT OF JUNEAU’S CRUISE INDUSTRY.” The 2023 report says,   “The cruise industry accounted for $375 million in direct spending in Juneau in 2023, $320 million of which is attributable to passenger spending; $39 million to cruise line spending; and $16 million to crew member spending. Spending was largely concentrated in the tour/activity ($152 million) and retail ($144 million) sectors.”  Cruising in Alaska is like surfing through paradise. And you know that Alaska will not look the same in the coming years. 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The little one especially loves watching the birds, whales, and other sea animals.   Further, looking at the glowing glaciers and just relaxing on the cruise deck can be the perfect “Aha” moment for you! Let’s go cruising!   Cruise In Alaska FAQs   Are Cruises To Alaska Worth It?  Yes, cruising in Alaska is definitely worth it. Sitting on the decks of the ships, you will get to enjoy the panoramic view of Alaska. You will come across small islands, majestic cliffs, and icebergs.   The trip also includes disembarking at designated locations and exploring the local areas on foot.   What Is Unique About Alaska?  Alaska is unique, with its icebergs and monumental cliffs rising over three thousand feet. 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