Colorado Bend State Park
State park
0.4 mi
4.7 (2507)
2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824
Riverside park featuring a 60-ft. waterfall & caves, plus areas for hiking, fishing & camping.
Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroom
RiverTX
Colorado Bend State Park
By Hidden Swimming Holes Team · Record updated
Background photo from a past visit, not current conditions. View photos and source links
Plan swimming at Spicewood Springs and the Colorado River, compare camping facilities, check entry fees and reservations, and understand Gorman Falls restrictions.
Swimming restriction
Swimming is allowed at Spicewood Springs and in the Colorado River. No lifeguards are provided. Do not swim or wade in the Gorman Falls area, Gorman Creek or Gorman Spring. Follow current park closures and posted restrictions.
Official sources checked:
Water type
River
Access
Designated area only
Fee
$5 daily adult entry; children 12 and under free. Camping costs extra; confirm current rates
Best season
Check water levels, road conditions and park alerts before choosing a date. Spring and summer are busy
Nearby towns
Bend, San Saba, Lampasas
Water body
Spicewood Springs And Colorado River
Location
Map & Directions
Nearby towns
Bend, San Saba, Lampasas
Designated beach search
Colorado Bend State Park 1201 Colorado Park Road Bend Texas
Map searches for the named location. Confirm the entrance and current access with the park before you go.
A closer look
Photos of Colorado Bend State Park
Photos show past visits, not current water levels or swimming conditions. Select a photo to view it larger.
Sources & checks
This is a desk-researched listing. A record update or map check does not confirm current swimming permission or water conditions.
- Swimming rules
- Official sources checked . See the rules above and check for current closures.
- Access location not verified
- The recorded location has no completed source check. Confirm the entrance, legal access, and parking before travelling.
- Record updated
- · This is a data update, not a field visit.
Found an error? Send a correction with the location and a source. How we research listings.
Choose the right swimming area at Colorado Bend
Swimming is allowed at Spicewood Springs and in the Colorado River. No lifeguards are provided. Do not swim or wade in the Gorman Falls area, Gorman Creek or Gorman Spring. Follow current park closures and posted restrictions. A waterfall photo from elsewhere in this large park is not evidence that its water is open for swimming.
Approach and parking
The park describes a short, flat approach to the first Spicewood Springs pool. Continuing farther is a different outing; confirm your route and conditions with staff. Use the official park address, 1201 Colorado Park Road, Bend, TX 76824. Check the park map for the approach to your chosen swimming area. The entrance road can flood during heavy rain; call 325-628-3240 for current access information. A full trail length is not the same as the walk to the first pool.
Fees and reservations
$5 daily adult entry; children 12 and under free. Camping costs extra; confirm current rates. Day-use and camping reservations are strongly recommended because the park can reach capacity. Check official alerts for trail restrictions and scheduled park closures before leaving.
Facilities and camping
Facilities depend on the area. Walk-in campsites list nearby water and restrooms; backcountry River and Windmill camping areas have no water or toilets. Drive-up sites have no hookups. Do not assume facilities are beside the swimming pools. Drive-up, walk-in and backcountry camping have different facilities. Reserve separately; daily entrance fees are additional.
Current notices and official sources
On September 23, 2026, the park alert page listed a burn ban, maintenance closures affecting Gorman Springs Trail and part of Old Gorman Road Trail, and scheduled autumn park closures. Check current park alerts before every visit rather than relying on this dated summary.
Sources: park information, swimming activities, Gorman Falls restrictions and campsite facilities.
Getting There
Use the official park address, 1201 Colorado Park Road, Bend, TX 76824. Check the park map for the approach to your chosen swimming area. The entrance road can flood during heavy rain; call 325-628-3240 for current access information.
Quick Navigation
Access Notes
Day-use and camping reservations are strongly recommended because the park can reach capacity. Check official alerts for trail restrictions and scheduled park closures before leaving.
Plan Your Visit
Parking & Access
Confirm the entrance, parking arrangements, and legal access with the land manager. A map pin does not establish a public right of access. Follow posted routes and never block gates or driveways.
Regulations & Fees
Swimming is allowed at Spicewood Springs and in the Colorado River. No lifeguards are provided. Do not swim or wade in the Gorman Falls area, Gorman Creek or Gorman Spring. Follow current park closures and posted restrictions. Public park access does not necessarily include permission to swim. Respect private property and posted restrictions.
Seasonality & Flow
Water conditions can change quickly. This listing does not provide a current safety or water-quality assessment. Check official alerts and avoid entering water when conditions or permission are uncertain.
What to Bring
Bring sturdy water shoes to protect your feet on rocks and slippery surfaces. A waterproof dry bag keeps your phone, keys, and valuables safe. Pack a quick-dry towel, sun protection, and drinking water - never drink from the natural water source.
Nearby Facilities
Nearby places from saved public map data, not necessarily facilities at the swimming spot. Confirm access, hours, fees, and amenities with the operator before you drive.
Map data retrieved 2026-06-15
Restroom
Public bathroom
4.5 mi
5 (1)
2HF5+M7W, Bend, TX 76824
Lampasas
Parking
19.1 mi
Texas 76550
Lampasas is a city in and the county seat of Lampasas County, Texas, United States. Its population was 7,291 at the 2020 census. Lampasas is part of the Killeen – Temple – Fort Hood metropolitan area.
Boone RV Park
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19.1 mi
4.1 (98)
1907 US-281, Lampasas, TX 76550
Picnic tablesPublic restroomPublic showerRestroom
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19.2 mi
4.8 (82)
4120 N U.S. Hwy 281, Lampasas, TX 76550
Gender-neutral restroomPicnic tablesPublic restroomPublic shower
Our Friends RV Resort
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25.8 mi
4.4 (143)
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Barbecue grillPicnic tablesPublic restroomPublic shower
Live Conditions Nearby
Checking nearby USGS water conditions…
Frequently Asked Questions About Colorado Bend State Park
Is Colorado Bend State Park free to visit?
Reported fee information: $5 daily adult entry; children 12 and under free. Camping costs extra; confirm current rates. Verify current pricing with the managing agency before your visit.
Is swimming allowed at Colorado Bend State Park?
Swimming is allowed at Spicewood Springs and in the Colorado River. No lifeguards are provided. Do not swim or wade in the Gorman Falls area, Gorman Creek or Gorman Spring. Follow current park closures and posted restrictions.
What type of swimming spot is Colorado Bend State Park?
Colorado Bend State Park is a river on Spicewood Springs And Colorado River located in Texas, near Bend. Plan swimming at Spicewood Springs and the Colorado River, compare camping facilities, check entry fees and reservations, and understand Gorman Falls restrictions.
When is the best time to visit Colorado Bend State Park?
Seasonal planning notes: Check water levels, road conditions and park alerts before choosing a date. Spring and summer are busy; reserve entry ahead. Water levels, clarity, and temperature vary with recent weather. Check current conditions before going, especially after rain or snowmelt.
What facilities are available at Colorado Bend State Park?
Reported facilities at Colorado Bend State Park include: Facilities depend on the area. Walk-in campsites list nearby water and restrooms; backcountry River and Windmill camping areas have no water or toilets. Drive-up sites have no hookups. Do not assume facilities are beside the swimming pools. Amenities can change - contact the managing agency or check recent visitor reports to confirm current availability.
Is camping available near Colorado Bend State Park?
Drive-up, walk-in and backcountry camping have different facilities. Reserve separately; daily entrance fees are additional.
Highlights
Spicewood Springs swimming pools
Colorado River access
Gorman Falls sightseeing, not swimming
Unique Features
Spring-fed pools and river access are separate swimming options
Gorman Falls has protected formations and no swimming
Location & Area Map
Safety Information
Important Safety Tips
- No lifeguards are provided
- Check current river and spring conditions, road flooding and park closures
- Do not enter the protected Gorman Falls waters
Cultural & Historical Context
Historical Background
The park is part of the cultural and natural history of Central Texas, with ties to early settlers in San Saba and the broader Hill Country region.
Photography Guide
Photo Opportunities
Capture striking views of the Colorado River, limestone cliffs, and wildflowers. The golden hours of sunrise and sunset are ideal for photography.
Conservation & Ethics
Protect This Place
Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles to protect the park's fragile ecosystems. Avoid disturbing wildlife and tread lightly on trails.
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At a Glance
Best Time to Visit
Check water levels, road conditions and park alerts before choosing a date. Spring and summer are busy; reserve entry ahead.
Difficulty Level
The park describes a short, flat approach to the first Spicewood Springs pool. Continuing farther is a different outing; confirm your route and conditions with staff.
Fee
$5 daily adult entry; children 12 and under free. Camping costs extra; confirm current rates
Facilities
Facilities depend on the area. Walk-in campsites list nearby water and restrooms; backcountry River and Windmill camping areas have no water or toilets. Drive-up sites have no hookups. Do not assume facilities are beside the swimming pools.
Activities
Swimming
Phone
325-628-3240
Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
Camping Information
Drive-up, walk-in and backcountry camping have different facilities. Reserve separately; daily entrance fees are additional.
Nearby Attractions
- Gorman Falls - Waterfall
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Safety & Access Notice
This information is for general planning only and may be incomplete, outdated, or inaccurate. Access rules, closures, water levels, currents, hazards, and legal restrictions can change at any time. Always verify current rules with the land manager or official source before visiting.
- Do not swim where swimming is prohibited, unsafe, or not clearly allowed.
- Follow posted signs, local regulations, closures, and private-property boundaries.
- Assess conditions on site. Water flow, depth, temperature, and underwater hazards change quickly.
- Never jump or dive without personally confirming depth and underwater obstacles.
- Swim with a buddy and consider flotation for weak or non-swimmers.
- Pack out all trash; respect wildlife and fragile environments.
You are responsible for your own safety and for following all posted signs, laws, and local regulations. Read the full disclaimer.
J
Joshua Havens
Founder & Editor, Hidden Swimming Holes
Joshua Havens created Hidden Swimming Holes to make it easier for people to find — and safely visit — natural freshwater swimming destinations across the United States. He researches access conditions, water quality resources, and land management rules so you don't have to start from scratch. He holds a strong belief that good outdoor recreation information should be accurate, honest about its limitations, and freely available.
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