10 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Texas Before You Die
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Even though we’ve done a lot of hidden gem articles in the past, there seems to be no end to the diamonds in the rough in Texas. We’re beginning to think that we could visit a new place every single day for the rest of our lives and STILL not manage to see all that our state has to offer. But we have to try, right? That’s why we make these lists – to showcase the lesser-known beauty of the Lone Star State and encourage y’all to go to places you’ve never been before. So, without further ado, we present to you a list of 10 of the best hidden gems in Texas that you absolutely have to see at least once in your lifetime.
1. Caprock Canyons (Quitaque)
Caprock Canyons State Park & Trailway, 850 Caprock Canyon Park Road, Quitaque, TX 79255, USA
Although "hiding" in very plain sight, this beautiful canyon doesn't get nearly enough recognition. It always gets overshadowed by Palo Duro, which is obviously gorgeous, but both are breathtaking in their own right and need to be treated as such. Caprock Canyon is much smaller, so you'll be able to see more of it, especially if your time is limited. There's also much more lush greenery to admire as you hike through the park.
One of the best Texas hidden gems is Caprock Canyons with its amazing views and bison herds. Learn more in this video from Mr. S Travel Quest:
One of the best Texas hidden gems is Caprock Canyons with its amazing views and bison herds. Learn more in this video from Mr. S Travel Quest:
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2. Westcave Preserve (Round Mountain)
Westcave Preserve, 24814 Hamilton Pool Rd, Round Mountain, TX 78663, USA
You get two for the price of one here - Westcave is right down the road from Hamilton Pool, which, although no longer a hidden gem, is one of the most beautiful places in Texas. This preserve, however, is definitely out of the public eye. That's a crying shame because it's simply stunning. A short, guided tour through the woods gives way to this pristine grotto bursting with plant life on all sides. It's a pretty magical place, no doubt.
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3. Cattail Falls (Big Bend National Park)
Cattail Falls, Texas 79834, USA
We'd be lying if we said we knew how to access Cattail Falls, but we'll be darned if we don't try one day. Apparently, a group of hikers stumbled upon it a long time ago after wandering off the path, and since then it's been an elusive spot that everyone else longs to see in person. Pictured above is only the top portion of the falls - below this, it becomes much steeper and extends almost 100 feet down the side of the Chisos Mountains.
4. Medina River (Bandera)
Medina River, Medina, TX 78055, USA
It's easy to overlook certain rivers in Texas since we have so many. Between the Guadalupe, Comal, San Marcos, Colorado, and several others, it's no secret why not everyone has heard of the Medina River. It truly is a diamond in the rough with trees lining either side and hanging over the water like a canopy. Plus, the crystal-clear water is an added bonus that many other rivers in Central Texas can't boast.
5. Shangri La Botanical Gardens (Orange)
Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center, 2111 W Park Ave, Orange, TX 77630, USA
We've been to plenty of botanical gardens in Texas, and Shangri La always rises above them all. We don't know what it is exactly - maybe a combination of the friendly staff members who are so devoted to teaching Southeast Texas about nature and the diversity of the exhibits. Whatever it is that makes this place so special, we want everyone to experience it for themselves.
Head to Orange, Texas to see the Shangri La Botanical Gardens in this video from Secrets of Texas:
Head to Orange, Texas to see the Shangri La Botanical Gardens in this video from Secrets of Texas:
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6. Possum Kingdom Lake (Caddo)
Possum Kingdom Lake, Texas, USA
This water is supposedly some of the bluest in Texas, with over 300 miles of shoreline and plenty of scenic areas to stop and have a picnic or just bask in the tranquility of the gentle lakeside breeze. Possum Kingdom Lake is a popular fishing spot, and there are air-conditioned cabins as well as primitive campgrounds for overnight guests.
7. Bracken Bat Cave (San Antonio)
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Bracken Bat Cave, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA
Did you know there's a place with even more bats than the Congress Ave bridge? Bracken Cave holds the largest bat colony in the entire world. Each summer night at dusk, over 20 million of the creatures fill the sky with their presence. And with less of a cult-like following than its counterpart in Austin, you can get a closer view here without being blocked by annoying tourists.
8. Mayfield Park (Austin)
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, USA
Mayfield Park lets you get up close and personal with, in our opinion, one of Earth's most majestic creatures - the peacock. It's truly an incredible sight when the males extend their vibrant feathers like a fan and strut around in the hopes of attracting a female mate. There are hundreds of them scattered around the area. We've even seen a few way up high in the treetops!
9. Dead Man's Hole (Marble Falls)
Dead Man's Hole Historical Landmark, Co Rd 401, Marble Falls, TX 78654, USA
Although it has a rather somber history, Dead Man's Hole serves as both an educational lesson about the Civil War and a way to pay homage to those who perished in its depths. It was a dumping ground used by Confederates to dispose of Union sympathizers. Many years later, sacks of bones were recovered from the hole and analyzed for DNA, but any trace of the humans they once belonged to was long gone.
10. Dinosaur Valley State Park (Glen Rose)
Dinosaur Valley State Park, Glen Rose, TX 76043, USA
Ever wanted to see how your footprint compares to that of a dinosaur? If so, you're in luck. At Dinosaur Valley State Park, you'll find hundreds of dinosaur footprint fossils preserved in the rock. Kids will have a blast here - we bet some of the footprints are as big as them!
If you love ancient history and paleontology, check out Dinosaur Valley State Park for another one of the best hidden gems in TX in this video from Fired Trip Texas:
If you love ancient history and paleontology, check out Dinosaur Valley State Park for another one of the best hidden gems in TX in this video from Fired Trip Texas:
Have you ever been to any of these places? What are some of the best hidden gems in Texas that you have discovered? Share a few of them with us in the comments.
If you enjoy natural wonders, Texas has numerous hidden gem hiking trails. Check out some of our favorites in this featured article. Be sure to give AllTrails+ A try so you can find current maps and trail info.
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More to Explore
More TX Hidden Gems
What are some hidden gems in Texas?
Depending on what you consider a hidden gem, from natural wonders to secret waterfalls, or even peaceful garden getaways. Here are a few hidden gems in Texas worth checking out:
- Willow City Loop, Fredericksburg, TX: This hidden field in Texas explodes with wildflowers each spring. This 13-mile stretch of road is so vibrant with purple, blue, white, orange, and yellow blossoms in every direction. You can find this scenic drive by heading north on State Route 16 until you hit Willow City. From there, head east on Ranch Road 1323 for a few miles until you see the sign for Willow City Loop.
- Gorman Falls, Colorado Bend State Park, TX: Head to Bend, Texas (about two hours from Austin) and the Colorado Bend State Park to find some incredible waterfalls that cascade over a rock wall like a scene from Jurassic Park. Instead of a single rush of water, Gorman Falls branches off in multiple streams which is unlike most waterfalls you have seen. There are numerous hiking trails in the park so you'll have plenty of areas to explore.
- Hill Country Herb Garden, Fredericksburg, TX: In the beautiful Hill Country of Texas you'll find this charming getaway with cottages for rent and a 5,000-acre herb farm. Not only can you enjoy the beautiful gardens but they offer spa services to make your stay even more relaxing. But the main attraction is the Farm Haus Bistro where they take all of the fresh ingredients grown in the garden and turn them into magic.