Colorado Bend State Park
00 review1201 Colorado Park Rd., BEND, Texas, 76824, United States
Colorado Bend State Park
$5.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use fee is $5 per person aged 13 and older. Site fees vary with primitive camping listed at $15 per night and other sites reaching up to $75 per night. The park requires reservations for both camping and day-use. Additional fees apply for cave tours, bookable online.
About this campground
Deep in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Colorado Bend State Park beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This rugged paradise offers primitive camping beneath star-filled skies, where spacious sites sprawl across the landscape without barriers, inviting campers to connect with nature's raw beauty. The park's crown jewels—the spectacular Gorman Falls and the mystical Spicewood Springs—draw hikers from across the state to traverse well-maintained trails through untamed terrain. With only compost toilets and no electrical hookups, this is where modern conveniences fade away, replaced by the crackling of campfires and the whisper of wind through canyon walls.
This state park focuses on primitive and backcountry camping experiences, offering no modern RV or glamping options.
Historical Significance.
Weather and SeasonsThe park transforms with the seasons, each bringing its own character to the landscape. Spring awakens the hillsides with wildflowers and perfect hiking temperatures, while autumn paints the scenery in warm hues with crisp, comfortable days ideal for trail exploration. Summer cranks up the intensity, with temperatures soaring past 90°F, turning hikes into true endurance tests that reward the determined with stunning vistas. Visitors should note that seasonal droughts can dramatically alter water features, sometimes reducing the normally flowing springs and falls to mere trickles—a reminder of nature's ever-changing moods.
ElevationElevation details not explicitly provided.
Natural Features and SceneryColorado Bend State Park unfolds across a dramatic canvas of Texas Hill Country, where ancient limestone cliffs plunge toward the winding Colorado River below. Rocky outcroppings and rugged bluffs create a natural playground for explorers, while hidden springs bubble up from the earth, feeding emerald pools and creating unexpected oases of lush vegetation. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem—white-tailed deer bound through the brush at dawn, armadillos shuffle through campsites at dusk, clever raccoons investigate after dark, and countless bird species fill the air with their songs, creating a living soundtrack to your outdoor adventure.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of natural forces, this slice of Texas Hill Country showcases nature's architectural prowess. The Colorado River has sculpted a landscape of dramatic contrasts—towering limestone bluffs, boulder-strewn trails, and hidden grottos that tell the story of ancient seas and patient erosion. This rugged terrain challenges hikers while rewarding them with geological wonders at every turn, from fossil-laden rock faces to spring-fed pools tucked into rocky alcoves.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park offers limited accessibility options due to rocky trails and lack of developed infrastructure.
Sites SizeCampground sites are spacious, with some primitive riverfront camping options available.
Sites PrivacyCampsites offer minimal privacy, with some sites closely clustered, while others offer seclusion near the river.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 19 is noted for shade and preferable conditions. Site 44 has direct sunlight for long hours. Primitive sites along the river are spacious and scenic.
Best CampsitesRiverfront primitive sites are highly recommended for views and proximity to water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
6:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
Day-use reservations limit access, and camping reservations are required.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Primitive camping sites do not have specific guest limits stated
- one user review mentioned a violation of site capacity (35 people in one site).
Groups
Group campsites are available, particularly along the river, featuring large open spaces suitable for gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are large but lack privacy. South and North loops include slope or stair access.
Open and Closed SeasonGate opens from 6am to 10pm. Day-use reservations are mandatory, and public hunt periods may restrict access.
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations available via the official Texas Parks and Wildlife website.
Walk-in AvailabilityDay-use reservations are mandatory; walk-up availability is not confirmed but likely limited.
Cancellation PolicyThe official source recommends modifying/canceling reservations promptly to open availability for others.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Colorado Bend State Park is renowned for its diverse and rugged outdoor activities ranging from hiking, fishing, and bird watching to challenging trails featuring river views and waterfalls.
Hiking
The park features over 30 miles of hiking trails, including Gorman Falls Trail and Spicewood Canyon and Springs Trails, known for their difficulty and scenic beauty. Trail conditions range from rocky to steep descents with cable assists.Fishing
The Colorado River offers fishing opportunities, with some guests reporting good catches near day-use areas. The park includes a fish cleaning station, though it is reportedly in disrepair.Swimming
Swimming is possible in the Colorado River and natural spring pools, although low water levels and drought conditions have affected enjoyment.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available with rocky and technical terrain that require advanced skill levels.Boating
Boating is supported with a boat ramp. However, the ramp is currently closed due to a washout.Wildlife viewing
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including coyotes, deer, raccoons, and various bird species. Bird watching is a popular activity.Winter Activities
Some guests report enjoying trails during winter months when conditions are cooler.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are popular on the Colorado River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No fires allowed during high-risk periods; propane stoves recommended.
- Quiet hours are No official quiet hours noted; user reviews mention noise issues due to group camping.
Hazards
General hazardsRocky trails pose risks of slips and falls, especially after rain. Rattlesnakes, feral hogs, and wildlife encounters are noted. Extreme heat in summer necessitates additional water and preparation.
Active alertsRiver and falls water levels are significantly reduced in drought conditions. Boat ramps are closed due to washouts.
Weather forecast
95
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are in Lampasas, TX (approx. 50 miles away). Nearest Ranger Station is available within the park (contact: 325-628-3240).
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is noted in user reviews during spring and fall, with high demand and full bookings requiring advance reservations.
Trash and recyclingThe park provides basic trash and recycling facilities, emphasizing a 'pack in, pack out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresThe park includes access to the Colorado River, springs, and falls. User reviews highlight reduced water levels during drought periods.
Common complaintsLack of showers and bathrooms were frequently cited with references to unpleasant odors. Poor trail markings led to wrong turns and rescues. Limited potable water sources and group noise violations affected experiences.
Host.
Campground Map
1201 Colorado Park Rd., BEND, Texas, 76824, United States
Driving directionsFrom Austin: Take Hwy 183 North to Lampasas. Take FM 580 West for 24 miles to Bend, Tx. From Bend, head South for 10 miles following signs to the park. Once at the park's entrance continue 6 miles to the Park Headquarters. Be sure to follow the signs. From Waco: Take I 35 South to Belton. Exit to Hwy 190 West and go to Lampasas. Take FM 580 West for 24 miles to Bend, Tx. From Bend, head South for 10 miles following signs to the park. Once at the park's entrance continue 6 miles to the Park Headquarters. Be sure to follow the signs. From Lampasas: Take FM 580 West for 24 miles to Bend, Tx. From Bend, head South for 10 miles following signs to the park. Once at the park's entrance continue 6 miles to the Park Headquarters. Be sure to follow the signs. From San Saba: Take HWY 190 East to FM 580 East. Take FM 580 for 19 miles to Bend, Tx. From Bend, head South for 10 miles following signs to the park. Once at the park's entrance continue 6 miles to the Park Headquarters. Be sure to follow the signs.
Access routes include paved highways until FM 580 West and dirt/gravel roads thereafter. The road quality transitions from smooth pavement to gravel near the campsites, noted in user reviews. Seasonal flooding is a concern during rainy periods, potentially affecting the gravel roads.Nearby places
Austin (approx. 90 miles, 1.5 hours), Lampasas (approx. 50 miles, 1 hour), San Saba (approx. 30 miles, 0.5 hours), Bend (approx. 10 miles, 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Bend General Store nearby offers essentials like camping supplies, fishing equipment, and snacks at 16 miles away from the park. User reviews mention high markups for items. Lampasas city offers larger grocery stores and fuel stations approximately 50 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Colorado Bend State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's rugged beauty, challenging hikes, and minimal amenities. Visitors appreciate its seclusion and natural scenery but criticize outdated facilities and inconsistent maintenance.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Scenic trails and diverse terrain
- Quiet and remote setting
- Wildlife presence and bird watching
- Riverfront campsites and primitive camping options
- Well-maintained hiking paths
Common Concerns
- Lack of flush toilets and subpar composting toilets
- Limited privacy in camping areas
- Inconsistent cleanliness of facilities
- Difficulty of trails for less experienced hikers
- Lack of showers...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring extra water and sturdy shoes due to rocky terrain
- Plan for limited cell reception and no electricity
- Make reservations in advance for day use and camping
- Avoid summer visits unless...
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Seasonal Insights
- Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather for hiking and camping.
- Summers can be unbearably hot, making strenuous activity challenging.
- Winter months are less crowded and offer cool,...
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Camper Quotes
- 'The hike to Gorman Falls is challenging yet rewarding.'
- 'Primitive sites are spacious, but lack of showers and flush toilets is a downside.'
- 'The park offers some of the best state park hiking...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site #19 is praised for providing all-day shade.
- Site #44 receives criticism for being in direct sunlight for long hours.
- The North Loop campsites are described as 'okay' with minimal privacy.
Accessibility Features
Limited accessibility noted due to rocky trails and steep climbs. Not suitable for individuals with mobility issues.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash. The trails are pet-friendly but may be too challenging for some animals.
Last updated August 10, 2025