The Regency Suspension Bridge San Saba
The Regency Suspension Bridge in San Saba was built in 1894 and is the oldest suspension bridge still standing in Texas.
The bridge spans the scenic San Saba River, which is known for its limestone bluffs and clear water.
Its a popular tourist site, so its important to plan your visit accordingly.
Be sure to check out the views from the top of the bridge for an amazing perspective on this historical landmark!
Visit The Tallest Waterfall In Texas
A post shared by Austin Wilson on Apr 13, 2018 at 8:49pm PDT
As you know, everythings bigger in Texas, so dont miss your chance to see the states tallest waterfall. Gorman Creek cascades down for 65 feet to create the inspiring Gorman Falls.
Gorman Falls Trail is the parks most popular. Its only 1.5 miles long, but prepare for a challenging, rocky hike with a steep descent.
Colorado Bend is beautiful and secluded. It is home to Gorman Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in Texas, but even besides that the park is gorgeous with awesome bluffs, river, trails, swimming hole, kayaking, and views. The Dyrt camper JJ T.
Early Days Of Big Bend
The Mojave American Indians were the regions earliest inhabitants and lived along the shores of the Colorado River more than 10,000 years ago. When translated, the Mojave name means people who live along the water. This ancient civilization of people lived in the surrounding mountains, and utilized the river as a life source. Europeans began making their way to the area when Spanish explorer Melchor Diaz visited the present-day Big Bend of the Colorado River and of course, early pioneers, also made their way west to California.
Though hard to imagine when visiting today, Big Bend, Laughlin was still a tiny community up until the 1960s. People certainly lived in the area, but there were no casinos to be found and not even a way of crossing the river to Bullhead City. That is, up until Don Laughlin came into the picture and opened his Riverside Resort. Over time, a town formed and was named in his honor, and several other major casinos expanded the Laughlin Strip you see today.
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Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway
850 Caprock Canyon Road, Quitaque, TX 79255
Located in the states panhandle, between Lubbock and Amarillo, this stunning state park is worth a detour. The scenery alone is enough of an attraction, with red rock cliffs rising up from green canyon floors and sweeping views in all directions. Nearly 90 miles of trails are available for hikers and cyclists of all levels. Swimming, fishing, and no-wake boating are available on Lake Theo. Wildlife viewing includes coyotes, pronghorn antelope, and prairie dogs, but the real draw is the Texas State Bison Herd that roams the park. Youre almost guaranteed to safely spot these magnificent beasts during your visit. There are 31 campsites with water and electricity available at Honey Flat Campground near Lake Theo. Campground facilities include playgrounds, a store, and a dump station.
Hike To The Famous Gorman Falls
The highlight at Colorado Bend State Park is the beautiful Gorman Falls.
The stunning 70 foot tall waterfall is the tallest in Texas.
Gorman Springs Creek falls over the striking limestone travertine rock formations on the western bank of the river to create this amazing waterfall.
Visitors flock here year round to see this cascading beauty!
The Gorman Falls hiking trail is 3 miles long round trip, of moderate difficulty level with an elevation gain of 200 feet, and takes about an hour and a half to complete.
The trail takes you through a rocky canyon and then ends at the picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush mosses and ferns.
There is a steep descent near the end, just before you reach the falls. The Gorman Falls trail is often rough and rocky, plus crowded on the weekends.
Visitors cannot swim, fish, or climb in either the Gorman Spring or the Gorman Falls.
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Visiting Big Bend State Park Today
Located only 8 miles from downtown Laughlin, Big Bend State Park is a top destination for outdoor recreationalists. Since joining the Nevada State Parks system in 1996, this stretch of the Colorado River has become the ultimate southern Nevada stomping grounds for picnicking, bird watching, fishing, boating, camping, jet skiing, hiking, and swimming. Because the park is located along an actual big bend in the river, it offers unique views of Bullhead City, AZ across the river and dramatic views of the surrounding mountains. Best yet, the park is located just a few miles downstream of Davis Dam, so the river is clear and cool year-round. The park encompasses two miles of trail-studded shoreline and riparian areas, along with panoramic viewpoints and rock formations
Best Time To Visit Colorado Bend State Park
Spring and summer is definitely the peak season to visit Colorado Bend State Park.
The natural beauty of Colorado Bend State Park can be found at its best during springtime when wildflowers are blooming all over the park, including the famous Texas bluebonnets.
During summer, visitors come here often to cool off from the intense Texas heat and take a dip in the natural swimming holes.
The misty Gorman Falls hike is also amazing on a hot June day.
You can also rent a kayak or go paddle boarding in the river to escape the sun.
In the fall, you can see stunning spots of fall colors on the river banks.
Visit in the off-season of winter to avoid crowds and enjoy this natural paradise with an occasional smattering of snow!
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Vista De Bofecillos Campsite
Editor’s Note: There’s no photo available at the time of writing
Vista de Bofecillos is just near the main road, which means easy access to RVs. Small trailers and tent trailers are allowed here. The camping spot is surrounded by mountains and lies near the Portal del Presidio entrance.
The site is part of a vast flat expanse, where campers can easily get an authentic desert camping experience. You may light campfires and bring pets to the area, and a picnic table and toilets are available for your convenience. The best time to visit this site is fall and early spring.
Vista de Bofecillos Campsite
Fees And Facilities At Colorado Bend State Park
Image from The Dyrt user Meghan G.
As a Texas State Park, the America the Beautiful Pass and Texas State Parks Pass allow visitors to enter without paying the daily access fee. For those without either pass, the daily entrance fee is $5 for individuals 13+, and free for those 12 and under.
Campsites range in price from $10/night to $75/night . The standard drive-in campsites go for $15/night.
Note: Entrance fees are charged alongside campsite fees, so keep that in mind when budgeting your vacation.
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Enjoy The Views From Tie Slide Trail
Besides Gorman Falls overlook, the park has many other breathtaking views that are worth the hike.
The Tie Slide Trail is a 2.2 mile round trip hike that is frequented by very few visitors.
The trail takes hikers to a cliffside overlook about 200 feet above the Colorado River.
From here, hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of the flowing water and surrounding wilderness.
You can also see Gorman Falls from the viewpoint.
You can also spot wildlife on this trail.
The trailhead is located along the Gorman Falls hike you need to take a slight detour to continue on the trail.
The trail is easier compared to the challenging Gorman Falls hike but goes over rough and rocky terrain and has no shade.
The trail takes about 2 hours and is a hidden gem in Colorado Bend State Park.
About Big Bend Of The Colorado
Situated on the shores of the Colorado River at Nevadas southern tip, Big Bend of the Colorado River includes about two miles of sandy shoreline. Because the park is downstream from Davis Dam, the river is clear and cool year round. Popular activities are camping, picnicking, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking and bird watching. The variety of waterfowl and shore birds that make this park home include mallards, coots, herons and geese. Hawks, roadrunners, quail, hummingbirds, doves and owls are also abundant in the park. The nearby town of Laughlin offers the amenities of a Nevada gaming town.
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Explore The Colorado River Wilderness Along The River Trail
The geology of Colorado Bend park in Texas is intriguing.
The park features towering limestone travertine cliffs, deep canyons, and otherworldly rock formations formed by the erosion carried out by the Colorado River.
Inside the park, you will find some of the most spectacular examples of exposed geology in Texas.
We definitely recommend taking the time to explore the Colorado River Wilderness spend some time on the 3.4 miles long shaded River Trail to see the natural formations.
Big Bend Of The Colorado State Recreation Area
What better way to experience Laughlin than the way people have appreciated the area for thousands of years? Check out the nightlife and award-winning casinos that dot the Laughlin Strip then explore the boundless recreation and breathtaking views the Colorado River serves up. With tons of options on how to best enjoy this iconic stretch of waterway, dont miss out on year-round fun at the Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area.
Big Bend of the Colorado measures up for practically any outdoor hobby your crew is into. Were talking hiking, birdwatching, camping, water sports, and straight-up beach-bumming.
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Brazos Bend State Park
21901 FM 762, Needville, TX 77461
Just outside of the Houston metropolitan area, Brazos Bend State Park is an underrated gem that deserves your attention. This nature lovers paradise encompasses 5,000 acres of wetlands, woodlands, and coastal prairie. Thousands of species of plants and animals thrive in its diverse ecosystem. A nature center, interpretive trails, and ranger programs all enhance the wildlife viewing experience, from alligators to storks and pelicans. RVers wont be disappointed with the campgrounds more than 60 large, level, and well-spaced sites.
Other Things To Do At Colorado Bend State Park
- Swimming at Spicewood Springs, one of the best swimming holes in the Hill Country. You are allowed swimming in the river, too. No lifeguards on duty, swim at your own risk.
- Mountain biking on rugged terrains. The park is one of the best places for mountain biking in the state!
- Boating and paddling on a slow-moving water. Bring your own watercraft, or rent kayaks from the park.
- Caving to Colorado Bends underground world. You will crawl, slide and climb through small spaces and into large chambers with an experience guide. Reservation required.
- Fishing for bass. Do you know that you dont need a fishing license when fishing in a state park?
- Joining the ranger program and if you are visiting with children, let them do the Junior Ranger program.
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Big Bend Ranch State Park may not be as popular as Big Bend National Park, but it has pretty much the same charm. Its landscape is dominated by a large portion of the Chihuahuan Desert, interrupted by rock formations like Solitario Peak. The massive Colorado Canyon looms over the parks Rio Grande section, while the Madrid Falls is a sight to behold. Herds of free-roaming cattle from the parklands ranches are a sight as common as encounters with the areas diverse wildlife. At night, the dark, unobstructed sky makes the park a popular stargazing spot. Needless to say, the whole place is a haven for tourists, campers, and nature lovers alike, and is there any better way to enjoy it than camping? Read on to discover the best camping spots in Big Bend Ranch State Park, Texas.
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Enjoy Kayaking Down The Colorado River
Whether you want to explore the Colorado River backcountry or just take a day trip down the slow moving river, kayaking is one of the best ways to explore this park.
You can bring your own gear the park rents kayaks for those who dont bring their own.
Visit the Visitor Center for trip planning, maps and kayak rentals.
Boating, paddling, and swimming on the Colorado River is also popular.
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Where Is Colorado Bend State Park
Colorado Bend State Park is located west of Lampasas in San Saba County.
The park is located two hours northwest of Austin and can be easily visited on a day trip from Austin or San Antonio.
Take County Road 442 to the park entrance from the town of Bend.
The park is open daily from 6 am to 10 pm.
The exact address is 2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824, you need to take the dirt road to the park.
The access road can be closed after heavy rains, so check the weather before your visit.
Entrance fees to the park can be paid at the Visitor Center.
Colorado Bend: Tips For Hiking To Gorman Falls
- Bring plenty of water.
- Wear appropriate hiking or walking shoes. The ground was rocky and its pretty steep at the end. I saw several girls wearing strap sandals and boys in their flip-flops. Leave them at home if you love your feet.
- Bring snacks.
- You are not allowed to climb to the falls. If accident happened and causes the park closing the trail, its a bummer for the rests of us who respect the rules.
- Gorman Falls Trail is 1.5 mi one way with challenging difficulty. It also has little shade, so take a rest when you need one. Know your limit.
- Use your Texas State Park pass or get one if you plan to go to other state parks a lot during the year.
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Mckinney Falls State Park
5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
McKinney Falls State Park provides the perfect opportunity for RVers to visit the vibrant state capital of Austin in a spacious, natural setting. Popular with locals, the parks main feature is the beautiful Onion Creek and its series of falls. Swimming, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing areas are plentiful along the creeks and in the woods. The campgrounds 81 sites all have water and electric hookups and are suitable for big rigs. The setting is outstandingly peaceful, especially after the day-trippers leave, and its hard to believe that this park is only 20 minutes from downtown Austin. With strong cell service, its a perfect base to explore the area. It can book up fast, so be sure to plan in advance and make a reservation.
Colorado Bend State Park Campground
Image from The Dyrt user Eby H.
Roughly 6 miles into the park youll find 47 sites with access to the Colorado River. There are no hookups, but there is potable water onsite. Each site contains a fire ring, and theres a composting toilet as well as a communal shower to wash the dirt off your feet after a long day of trekking or caving.
Totally primitive. Lots of wildlife, and a great view of the sky. You are camping on top of a giant mountain/hill above the Colorado River. The Dyrt user Kim W.
The campsites were great with lots of shade and proximity to water & trails! Several of my friends were first time campers and they had a great time. The Dyrt user Hannah G.
Image from The Dyrt camper JJ T.
One of the main features of this park is the river and the easy access for fishing. During February and March there is a white bass run in which anyone with a fishing rod, reel, line and white jig can catch a fish. The Dyrt user Troy W.
We camped in a water only site, which is also a walk-in site. You park by the road and then walk down some stairs to the river level, which is where the campsites are. The campsites are numbered, but it is basically an open field. The Dyrt user Brian V.
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Rv Resorts & Campsites In Colorado Bend State Park
While Colorado Bend State Park offers a variety of primitive and developed campsites, they tend to fill up fast — and most of them arent built for RVs.
Fortunately, whether youre in your own rig or an RV rental you sourced on the peer-to-peer market at RVshare, there are other campgrounds in the area to choose from.
History Of Colorado Bend State Park
The area around Colorado Bend State Park is steeped in Native, and non-Native history. From 1492 to 1821, Spanish Revolutionaries took control of what is now Texas, commandeering trade routes established by Native Americans after centuries of use.
When the Spanish Empire was conquered by Mexican authorities, Texans decided theyd had enough. In an uprising, they rebelled against Mexico and created the Lone Star Republic.
Over a century after becoming their own republic, and being granted statehood soon thereafter in December of 1845, Texas Parks & Wildlife Department purchased part of the park in 1984, and the remainder in 1987 when the park opened with 5,328.3 acres for visitors to explore.
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Barefoot Camp And Rv Park
Want to get a real taste of Texas life? This family-owned campground is surrounded by a real, live, working cattle ranch. Doesnt get more authentic than that!
Barefoot Camp and RV Park also features three stunning miles of Colorado River frontage, and its spaces are all pull-thrus. Weekly and monthly rates are available, and modern amenities are on offer.
- Water hookup: yes