Day Trips from San Antonio
← All San Antonio day tripsDay Trips from San Antonio: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of San Antonio, TX. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
11 waterfalls near San Antonio
Devil’s Waterhole - Trailhead
Buchanan Dam, TX 78611
Just 2 hrs 2 min from San Antonio, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Upper McKinney Falls
TX 78744, USA
Just 1 hr 22 min from San Antonio, rated 4.7 stars by 302 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Canyon Lake Gorge
Canyon Lake, TX 78133
Just 57 min from San Antonio, rated 4.7 stars by 277 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Colorado Bend State Park
Bend, TX 76824
Just 2 hrs 27 min from San Antonio, rated 4.7 stars by 2,467 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Johnson City, TX 78636
Just 1 hr 24 min from San Antonio, rated 4.7 stars by 5,110 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Sculpture Falls
Austin, TX 78746
Just 1 hr 21 min from San Antonio, rated 4.6 stars by 724 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
McKinney Falls State Park
Austin, TX 78744
Just 1 hr 18 min from San Antonio, rated 4.6 stars by 7,980 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blue Hole Regional Park
Wimberley, TX 78676
Just 1 hr 8 min from San Antonio, rated 4.6 stars by 2,101 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Cypress Falls Swimming Hole
Wimberley, TX 78676
Just 1 hr 13 min from San Antonio, rated 4.5 stars by 617 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Krause Springs
Spicewood, TX 78669
Just 1 hr 38 min from San Antonio, rated 4.5 stars by 1,313 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Blue hole Swimming Area
TX 78676, USA
Just 1 hr 8 min from San Antonio, rated 4.4 stars, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from San Antonio
What are the best waterfalls near San Antonio, TX?
The best waterfalls near San Antonio range from roadside cascades to backcountry falls requiring a hike. Check the cards above for top-rated options with drive times and real visitor ratings.
Are there swimmable waterfalls near San Antonio?
Some waterfalls near San Antonio have designated swimming areas at their base. Always check current conditions and posted rules before swimming. State park waterfalls with established trails are generally the safest options.
How hard are the hikes to waterfalls near San Antonio?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near San Antonio are visible from parking areas or short boardwalks. Others require moderate to strenuous hikes of 2-6 miles round trip. Check individual trail descriptions before heading out.
When is the best time to see waterfalls near San Antonio?
Spring (March-May) typically offers the highest water flow after snowmelt and rain. Waterfalls are beautiful year-round though. Winter ice formations are dramatic, and fall foliage framing a waterfall is hard to beat.
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