Under two hours from Austin, Colorado Bend lets you experience nature and wilderness. The park is home to six miles of the Colorado River, perfect for boating, paddling, and bass fishing, along with spring-fed swimming holes and waterfalls. The 70-foot Gorman Falls, with its striking travertine formations and lush vegetation, is a highlight. There are also more than 400 caves and 35 miles of trails, including hiking trails and some of the best mountain biking in Texas. All camping areas are primitive camping, including drive-up sites, walk-in tent sites, and hike-in sites, although some include access to picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and composting toilets.

• Best for river access: The walk-in primitive campsites at the Colorado Bend Campground offer 28 sites for tent camping along the riverbank with a 50-yard walk-in.
• Best for small RVs: The drive-in primitive campsites are suitable for self-contained RVs and campers up to 30 feet. There are no hookups or dump stations.
• Best for groups with river access: The River Group Camp offers space for 48 right next to the river.

1. Plan to make a reservation as soon as you know your dates. Regular campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance, while the group sites can be reserved 12 months in advance. 
2. If your plans are flexible and you’d like smaller crowds, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or in winter. Those traveling light can also opt for a hike-in site.
3. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to see about grabbing any unreserved sites available for walk-ups.

Spring and summer are the busy seasons at the river and the park, which are open year-round. March through June is the best time to visit for wildflowers, while entrance roads can flood during and after heavy rains. Be sure to check the weather and road conditions before finalizing travel plans.

• The gift shop rents kayaks and sells ice and firewood, but doesn’t take credit cards. Bring cash, or head to the general store just outside the park.
• The park has no lifeguards or showers aside from a simple outdoor "wash off" shower.
• Wear sturdy shoes for the Gorman Falls trail, which can be very rocky and slippery. Do not swim, wade, climb, or fish in the Gorman Falls area, creek, or spring.
• Fishing licenses are not required when fishing in the park. 
• Caves can only be accessed by guided cave tours, which must be reserved in advance.
• There is limited to no cell phone coverage inside the park, but WiFi is available at the gift shop.