We’re kicking off our summer road trip series — Hit the Road — with an outdoor adventure-themed trip to Colorado Bend State Park. With a 70-ft waterfall and 35 miles of trails, this park is a great destination for experienced adventurers + novice nature seekers alike.
Before you start packing your bags, here’s everything you need to know about the area + our insider recommendations.
Pro tip: The site closes when it reaches capacity, so we recommend booking a day pass ahead of time.
Drive time: ~2 hours
Est. land area: 5,300 acres
Avg. high in June: 90º
Hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, and nature enthusiasts will enjoy the six-mile river + 35 miles of trails at Colorado Bend State Park. | Photo via @luffy.gumshots
🥾Things to do
Hit the trails
Colorado Bend offers dozens of miles of trails ranging in terrain and difficulty perfect for hikers, backpackers, or mountain bikers. Walk along pools and waterfalls on the 3.8-mile Spicewood Springs Trail or take it easy by hopping on and off the River Trail, which stretches 10 miles along the Colorado River.
Take in one of Texas’ prettiest water features
Colorado Bend is famous for housing Gorman Falls, a gorgeous 70ft waterfall nestled in natural rock and lush mossy landscaping. The feature is known as a “living waterfall,” and has grown over time due to mineral deposits from the limestone + carbon dioxide-rich water.
Splash around
You can’t swim in Gorman Falls, but there are several other ways to cool off in the water at this park. Rent a kayak, swim in Spicewood Springs swimming hole, or try your hand at fishing on the park’s six miles of river.
Pro tip: Although tours are closed at this time, Colorado Bend is home to 400 caves open for guided exploration. Keep an eye out for the tours’ return here.
The Bend General Store’s stage hosts live music for you to enjoy during your meal. | Photo via @awrightmusic
🍽️ Fuel up after hiking
Bend General Store
Because Colorado Bend State Park is, you know, out in nature, the closest option for bites is the Bend General Store. But this isn’t your average general store — in addition to selling camping and fishing supplies, this spot serves up burgers + sandwiches and showcases live music.
Fiesta Winery
This Texas-grown winery has locations across the Hill Country, including one just 15 minutes from Colorado Bend State Park. Stop by to sit, sip, and snack after your hike and take in some Hill Country views.
Stoneledge Winery & Vineyard
Speaking of wine, Stoneledge Winery and Vineyard is just a little further down the road from the park, and offers a variety of tastings on 11 acres of land.
Who wouldn’t want to open their tent to views like these? | Photo via @kiiileidoscope
🏕️ Cozy campsites + cabins
Camping at Colorado Bend State Park | 2236 Park Hill Dr., Bend
The park itself offers drive-up, hike-in, walk-in, and group campsites for reservation starting at $10 per night. Check out availability + book your spot.
Sulphur Springs Camp | 2935 County Rd. 446, Bend
This campsite offers cabins, RV hookups, and sites for tents as well as a natural, spring-fed pool and a souvenir store.
Hi-Line Lake Resort | 1106 Hi-Line Dr., Tow
Although about an hour away from the park in Tow, Texas, this resort on Lake Buchanan is a great place to relax after a tiring day of hiking + exploring. Post up in a cabin, RV site or campside and take advantage of the laundry room access, fishing house, and lakefront access.
