With how huge Texas is, it’s no wonder that we could write three whole articles about its lesser-known wonders – and even then, we’re not covering every elusive treasure our state has to offer. Here are 10 more hidden gems in Texas that will leave you astounded at the sheer amount of beauty in the place we call home. From hidden flower fields to secret waterfalls in Texas, we’re surely in for a good time.
- Willow City Loop (Fredericksburg)
Dave Hensley/Flickr Everyone knows Texas is full of wildflowers, but the sheer amount we have is unbelievable and can’t be fully understood from seeing just any old patch of bluebonnets. Take Highway 16 to FM 1323 to Willow City and experience the beauty for yourself. It’s one of the best hidden flower fields in Texas, and you’ll see why.
- Krause Springs (Spicewood)
Trek Texas/Flickr Yeah, yeah, Hamilton Pool is beautiful. Yawn. That may be very true, but what about places that are less well-known and not absolutely slammed with people during the summer? Krause Springs, roughly 30 miles West of Austin, is another gorgeous place with not just one but an entire system of swimming holes to enjoy. Definitely something to add to your summertime (or any time, really) to-do list. This hidden oasis in Texas is secretly perfect.
Address: 424 County Road 404, Spicewood, Texas, 78669
- Medina River (near Bandera)
mlhradio/Flickr You’ll be instantly swept into serenity the moment you step into this river lined with beautiful bald cypress trees. Without the crowds that flock to the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, you can enjoy a solitary afternoon with just a kayak and the sound of gently flowing water.
- Gorman Falls (Colorado Bend State Park)
Jason St Peter/Flickr You might think you’ve stepped into the world of Tarzan when you visit this hidden gem. Waterfalls over 60 feet tall cascade down limestone rock and create a natural wonder that nobody would ever expect to find here. It’s among the best secret waterfalls in Texas, and you’ll fall in love with it on first sight. They’re tucked away inside Colorado Bend State Park. Of all the hidden gems in Texas we love, this one is one of the most amazing.
Address: 2236 Park Hill Drive, Bend, Texas, 76824
- Tonkawa Falls (Crawford)
Rockin’Rita/Flickr If you’re looking for a place to get in a nice float without feeling like a sardine, take a trip to Tonkawa Falls. How surprised would you be if you just stumbled upon this oasis nestled away in the middle of nowhere? What a fun thing to think about.
Address: 524-550 East 4th Street, Crawford, Texas, 76638
- Bracken Bat Cave (San Antonio)
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters/Flickr That’s right - there’s another bat spectacle in Texas besides Congress Avenue, and this one is even bigger. We bet most people don’t know that the largest bat colony in the world lives in Texas - at least until they migrate for winter. Still, it’s a sight that can’t be missed out on, that’s for sure.
Address: 26101 FM3009, San Antonio, Texas, 78266
- Seminole Canyon State Park (Comstock)
John Karwoski/Flickr We all know about the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, but there’s another canyon in Texas that is highly underrated. Most travelers come here to view the 4,000 year old Native American rock art - pictographs depicting shamans and animals can be found covering the walls. The 2,000+ acre park offers more than 10 miles of trails with breathtaking views. We think it’s time to plan a trip.
- Hill Country Herb Garden (formerly known as Fredericksburg Herb Farm) (Fredericksburg)
Curtis Simmons/Flickr If you like gardening, this hidden gem is definitely the place for you. It’s more like a garden resort with comfy cottages, a 5,000 square foot spa where natural healing techniques are implemented, a fine restaurant where chefs use herbs grown on-site to create fantastic flavor combinations, and a gift shop with handmade items also using herbs from the property. This is a relaxing weekend destination if we’ve ever seen one. Reservations can be made on the website, and please note the name has changed to Hill Country Herb Garden.
Address: 405 Whitney Street, Fredericksburg, Texas, 78624
- Caprock Canyons (Quitaque)
mhlradio/Flickr You don’t have to trek all the way out to Utah or Arizona to catch a glimpse of the legendary red rocks of the west. You can see them right here in Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Lubbock. More than 28 miles of trails with marvelous views await you, as well as world-class fishing and camping. Look out for bison while you’re there, too! The last remnants of the historic southern plains bison herd live here.
- Copper Breaks State Park (Quanah)
Pierce Place/Flickr A beautiful, picturesque landscape can be found at this remote state park. Located about half an hour from the Oklahoma border, this classic Old West state park is most famed for its impeccably clear night skies, where seemingly every star is visible. There are also 10 miles of trails, lakes, and some interesting Native American history that make the secluded park worth a visit. Check the website for the most up-to-date park information, including closures and fees.
Address: 777 State Highway Park Road 62, Quanah, Texas, 79252
Texas never ceases to amaze us. Have you visited any of these places? Which hidden gems in Texas are your favorites? Tell us about them in the comments! Need more Texan hidden gems? Check out this article for loads more inspiration.
Dave Hensley/Flickr
Everyone knows Texas is full of wildflowers, but the sheer amount we have is unbelievable and can’t be fully understood from seeing just any old patch of bluebonnets. Take Highway 16 to FM 1323 to Willow City and experience the beauty for yourself. It’s one of the best hidden flower fields in Texas, and you’ll see why.
Trek Texas/Flickr
Yeah, yeah, Hamilton Pool is beautiful. Yawn. That may be very true, but what about places that are less well-known and not absolutely slammed with people during the summer? Krause Springs, roughly 30 miles West of Austin, is another gorgeous place with not just one but an entire system of swimming holes to enjoy. Definitely something to add to your summertime (or any time, really) to-do list. This hidden oasis in Texas is secretly perfect.
Address: 424 County Road 404, Spicewood, Texas, 78669
mlhradio/Flickr
You’ll be instantly swept into serenity the moment you step into this river lined with beautiful bald cypress trees. Without the crowds that flock to the Guadalupe and Comal rivers, you can enjoy a solitary afternoon with just a kayak and the sound of gently flowing water.
Jason St Peter/Flickr
You might think you’ve stepped into the world of Tarzan when you visit this hidden gem. Waterfalls over 60 feet tall cascade down limestone rock and create a natural wonder that nobody would ever expect to find here. It’s among the best secret waterfalls in Texas, and you’ll fall in love with it on first sight. They’re tucked away inside Colorado Bend State Park. Of all the hidden gems in Texas we love, this one is one of the most amazing.
Address: 2236 Park Hill Drive, Bend, Texas, 76824
Rockin’Rita/Flickr
If you’re looking for a place to get in a nice float without feeling like a sardine, take a trip to Tonkawa Falls. How surprised would you be if you just stumbled upon this oasis nestled away in the middle of nowhere? What a fun thing to think about.
Address: 524-550 East 4th Street, Crawford, Texas, 76638
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Headquarters/Flickr
That’s right - there’s another bat spectacle in Texas besides Congress Avenue, and this one is even bigger. We bet most people don’t know that the largest bat colony in the world lives in Texas - at least until they migrate for winter. Still, it’s a sight that can’t be missed out on, that’s for sure.
Address: 26101 FM3009, San Antonio, Texas, 78266
John Karwoski/Flickr
We all know about the stunning Palo Duro Canyon, but there’s another canyon in Texas that is highly underrated. Most travelers come here to view the 4,000 year old Native American rock art - pictographs depicting shamans and animals can be found covering the walls. The 2,000+ acre park offers more than 10 miles of trails with breathtaking views. We think it’s time to plan a trip.
Curtis Simmons/Flickr
If you like gardening, this hidden gem is definitely the place for you. It’s more like a garden resort with comfy cottages, a 5,000 square foot spa where natural healing techniques are implemented, a fine restaurant where chefs use herbs grown on-site to create fantastic flavor combinations, and a gift shop with handmade items also using herbs from the property. This is a relaxing weekend destination if we’ve ever seen one. Reservations can be made on the website, and please note the name has changed to Hill Country Herb Garden.
Address: 405 Whitney Street, Fredericksburg, Texas, 78624
mhlradio/Flickr
You don’t have to trek all the way out to Utah or Arizona to catch a glimpse of the legendary red rocks of the west. You can see them right here in Texas, about 100 miles northeast of Lubbock. More than 28 miles of trails with marvelous views await you, as well as world-class fishing and camping. Look out for bison while you’re there, too! The last remnants of the historic southern plains bison herd live here.
Pierce Place/Flickr
A beautiful, picturesque landscape can be found at this remote state park. Located about half an hour from the Oklahoma border, this classic Old West state park is most famed for its impeccably clear night skies, where seemingly every star is visible. There are also 10 miles of trails, lakes, and some interesting Native American history that make the secluded park worth a visit. Check the website for the most up-to-date park information, including closures and fees.
Address: 777 State Highway Park Road 62, Quanah, Texas, 79252
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Willow City Loop, Texas, USAAddress: 424 Co Rd 404, Spicewood, TX 78669, USAAddress: Medina River, Medina, TX 78055, USAAddress: 2236 Park Hill Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76110, USAAddress: Tonkawa Falls, 524-550 E 4th St, Crawford, TX 76638, USAAddress: 26101 FM3009, San Antonio, TX 78266, USAAddress: Seminole Canyon, Texas, USAAddress: 405 Whitney St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USAAddress: Caprock Canyon, San Antonio, TX 78258, USAAddress: 777 State Hwy Park Rd 62, Quanah, TX 79252, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hidden Gems in Texas July 09, 2021 Tori Jane Where can I find amazing hidden flower fields in Texas? One of the most iconic images of the Lone Star State is any of our scenic, seemingly endless fields of bluebonnets, or any other type of flower we’re lucky enough to have here. There are some amazing places you can go to that feature these flower fields. For example, the town of Marble Falls has a special place that only locals seem to know about: it’s called the Bluebonnet House, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful house, perfect for photographers, surrounded by a photogenic field of perfect bluebonnet flowers. The town of Burnet, which, coincidentally, is nearby Marble Falls, is also known by Texans for its breathtaking bluebonnet and flower displays. In Ennis, Texas, you’ll find the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails, which is a must-see for wildflower enthusiasts in the spring. Where can I find a hidden oasis in Texas? Texas is a GIGANTIC state with so many hidden gems and beautiful places that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few, but we can try! There’s a spectacular array of hidden Texas splendor in this article, and some of our personal favorites include the incredible Devil’s River, which is a perfectly hidden oasis tucked inside Del Rio. Son’s Island, on Lake Placid, is also an incredible, underappreciated oasis gem right here in the Lone Star State. Nearby Round Mountain, you’ll find the incredible Westcave Preserve, which often goes sadly overlooked in favor of the nearby Hamilton Pool. It’s like the perfect secret right under the noses of nearby tourists! Are there any hidden waterfalls in Texas I can hike to? There are certainly plenty of well-known waterfalls scattered about the Lone Star State, but what about ones that are less appreciated? Well, perhaps they aren’t secret, per se, but some waterfalls in this gorgeous state are lesser known than their famous counterparts. Inside Colorado Bend State Park is a stunningly gorgeous 70-foot-tall spring-fed waterfall. There’s a bit of a hike to get there but trust us when we say it’s worth every moment. In Spicewood, Texas, you’ll find a little fall at Krause Springs, which trickles down into a delightful swimming hole. Need more? Check out this article for more of our favorite “secret” waterfalls in Texas!
The OIYS Visitor Center
Hidden Gems in Texas
July 09, 2021
Tori Jane
Where can I find amazing hidden flower fields in Texas? One of the most iconic images of the Lone Star State is any of our scenic, seemingly endless fields of bluebonnets, or any other type of flower we’re lucky enough to have here. There are some amazing places you can go to that feature these flower fields. For example, the town of Marble Falls has a special place that only locals seem to know about: it’s called the Bluebonnet House, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful house, perfect for photographers, surrounded by a photogenic field of perfect bluebonnet flowers. The town of Burnet, which, coincidentally, is nearby Marble Falls, is also known by Texans for its breathtaking bluebonnet and flower displays. In Ennis, Texas, you’ll find the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails, which is a must-see for wildflower enthusiasts in the spring. Where can I find a hidden oasis in Texas? Texas is a GIGANTIC state with so many hidden gems and beautiful places that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few, but we can try! There’s a spectacular array of hidden Texas splendor in this article, and some of our personal favorites include the incredible Devil’s River, which is a perfectly hidden oasis tucked inside Del Rio. Son’s Island, on Lake Placid, is also an incredible, underappreciated oasis gem right here in the Lone Star State. Nearby Round Mountain, you’ll find the incredible Westcave Preserve, which often goes sadly overlooked in favor of the nearby Hamilton Pool. It’s like the perfect secret right under the noses of nearby tourists! Are there any hidden waterfalls in Texas I can hike to? There are certainly plenty of well-known waterfalls scattered about the Lone Star State, but what about ones that are less appreciated? Well, perhaps they aren’t secret, per se, but some waterfalls in this gorgeous state are lesser known than their famous counterparts. Inside Colorado Bend State Park is a stunningly gorgeous 70-foot-tall spring-fed waterfall. There’s a bit of a hike to get there but trust us when we say it’s worth every moment. In Spicewood, Texas, you’ll find a little fall at Krause Springs, which trickles down into a delightful swimming hole. Need more? Check out this article for more of our favorite “secret” waterfalls in Texas!
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
One of the most iconic images of the Lone Star State is any of our scenic, seemingly endless fields of bluebonnets, or any other type of flower we’re lucky enough to have here. There are some amazing places you can go to that feature these flower fields. For example, the town of Marble Falls has a special place that only locals seem to know about: it’s called the Bluebonnet House, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful house, perfect for photographers, surrounded by a photogenic field of perfect bluebonnet flowers. The town of Burnet, which, coincidentally, is nearby Marble Falls, is also known by Texans for its breathtaking bluebonnet and flower displays. In Ennis, Texas, you’ll find the Ennis Bluebonnet Trails, which is a must-see for wildflower enthusiasts in the spring.
Where can I find a hidden oasis in Texas?
Texas is a GIGANTIC state with so many hidden gems and beautiful places that it’s hard to narrow it down to just a few, but we can try! There’s a spectacular array of hidden Texas splendor in this article, and some of our personal favorites include the incredible Devil’s River, which is a perfectly hidden oasis tucked inside Del Rio. Son’s Island, on Lake Placid, is also an incredible, underappreciated oasis gem right here in the Lone Star State. Nearby Round Mountain, you’ll find the incredible Westcave Preserve, which often goes sadly overlooked in favor of the nearby Hamilton Pool. It’s like the perfect secret right under the noses of nearby tourists!
Are there any hidden waterfalls in Texas I can hike to?
There are certainly plenty of well-known waterfalls scattered about the Lone Star State, but what about ones that are less appreciated? Well, perhaps they aren’t secret, per se, but some waterfalls in this gorgeous state are lesser known than their famous counterparts. Inside Colorado Bend State Park is a stunningly gorgeous 70-foot-tall spring-fed waterfall. There’s a bit of a hike to get there but trust us when we say it’s worth every moment. In Spicewood, Texas, you’ll find a little fall at Krause Springs, which trickles down into a delightful swimming hole. Need more? Check out this article for more of our favorite “secret” waterfalls in Texas!
