Day Trips from Waco
← All Waco day tripsDay Trips from Waco: Waterfalls & Swimming Holes
The best waterfalls and swimming holes within driving distance of Waco, TX. Dramatic cascades, hidden gorges, and swimmable falls that reward the drive. Trail info, drive times, and ratings included.
7 waterfalls near Waco
Devil’s Waterhole - Trailhead
Buchanan Dam, TX 78611
Just 2 hrs 5 min from Waco, 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.
Pedernales Falls State Park
Johnson City, TX 78636
Just 2 hrs 24 min from Waco, 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.
Upper McKinney Falls
TX 78744, USA
Just 1 hr 48 min from Waco, 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.
Gorman Falls
Lometa, TX 76853
Just 2 hrs 7 min from Waco, rated 4.7 stars by 134 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 1 hr 60 min from Waco, 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.
McKinney Falls State Park
Austin, TX 78744
Just 1 hr 44 min from Waco, 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.
Cypress Falls Swimming Hole
Wimberley, TX 78676
Just 2 hrs 17 min from Waco, 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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Waterfalls Day Trips from Waco
What are the best waterfalls near Waco, TX?
The best waterfalls near Waco 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 Waco?
Some waterfalls near Waco 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 Waco?
Difficulty varies widely. Some waterfalls near Waco 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 Waco?
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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