Colorado Bend State Park
K. Reiter
Colorado Bend State Park stretches over 5,000 acres and includes caves, waterfalls, and the Colorado River. But, don’t be confused by its name. This park is actually located in the Hill Country of Texas.
Caves
There are more than 400 caves located in the park, but only a few are open for exploration. In the caves, visitors can view ancient stalactites and stalagmites and learn about the ecosystem of a Texas cave. Tours are available and vary depending on the level of difficulty. There are easy walk-through caves where visitors age four and up are welcome. If you want to get down and dirty, there are caves where crawling is necessary. On these tours, visitors will venture a little deeper underground. For those who like to explore by climbing, there is a climber’s tour available where visitors shimmy through tight crevices in the rock.
Hiking
With more than 5,300 acres of canyonland surrounding the Colorado River and 32 miles of trails, this is a hiker’s paradise. Some points of interest include Spicewood Springs, where hikers can wander across the creek and view spring-fed pools and waterfalls. If you dare hike to the top, you will be captivated by the stunning canyon views. Gorman Falls is the most popular hike and leads to a 60-foot waterfall. River Trail is a hike through thick foliage that crosses over the river.
Fishing
If campers are looking for something a little more relaxing, fishing on the Colorado River is a popular option at the park. Colorado Bend is known for some of the best bass fishing in Central Texas, and a fishing license is not even required. Fish cleaning stations are also available, so you will be heading to a fish fry before you know it.
So, if you want a weekend adventure or just a few hours to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, visit Colorado Bend State Park.
With its stunning caves, beautiful hiking trails, and fantastic fishing opportunities, Colorado Bend State Park in Texas is a nature lover's dream. Covering over 5,000 acres, the park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages.
One of the main draws of the park is its caves. With over 400 caves in the area, there are plenty to explore. While only a few are open to the public, these caves offer a chance to see ancient stalactites and stalagmites up close. Guided tours are available, ranging in difficulty from easy walk-through caves suitable for children aged four and up, to more challenging crawls for those who want to get down and dirty. The climber's tour is perfect for those who enjoy a physical challenge, as visitors navigate tight crevices in the rock.
For hikers, Colorado Bend State Park offers 32 miles of trails through rugged canyonland. One popular hike is the Spicewood Springs trail, where hikers can cross creeks and admire spring-fed pools and waterfalls. For those who are willing to make the trek to the top, stunning canyon views await. Gorman Falls is another highlight, with its breathtaking 60-foot waterfall. The River Trail offers a different experience, with a hike through dense foliage and a chance to cross over the Colorado River.
Fishing is also a popular activity at Colorado Bend State Park. The park is known for its excellent bass fishing, and a fishing license is not required to cast your line into the Colorado River. Fish cleaning stations are conveniently located throughout the park, so you can easily prepare your catch for a delicious fish fry.
Whether you're looking for a weekend adventure or just a few hours to escape the busy city life, Colorado Bend State Park has something for everyone. Explore ancient caves, hike through stunning canyons, or relax while fishing along the Colorado River. This park is truly a hidden gem in the Hill Country of Texas.