If you think Texas doesn’t get real fall colors, think again. When the weather starts to cool down, parts of the state burst into shades of red, orange, and yellow. From the Hill Country to East Texas, there are some truly beautiful spots to enjoy the season. Here are five of the best places to see fall foliage in Texas this year.
Lost Maples is the most famous fall destination in Texas. It’s known for its Uvalde bigtooth maples, which turn a mix of bright red, orange, and gold every year. The park has a peaceful, scenic vibe that makes it perfect for hiking and photography.
Best time to go:
Mid-October to mid-November, depending on the weather. The official TPWD website even posts a weekly fall foliage report so you can plan your trip perfectly.
Tips:
Get there early — parking fills up fast on weekends. The East Trail gives the best views of colorful trees and canyon cliffs.
2. Garner State Park – Concan
Garner isn’t just for summer swimming. In the fall, the cypress and oak trees along the Frio River turn deep red and amber, reflecting beautifully in the water.
Best time to go:
Late October through early November.
What to do:
Take a walk along the river trail, rent a paddleboat, or climb Old Baldy for a panoramic view of the Hill Country covered in fall color. Learn more on the Garner State Park page.
3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park – West Texas
Yes, even the desert gets a dose of fall color! In McKittrick Canyon, you’ll find maple trees and sumacs that light up the canyon floor. It’s one of the most photographed fall spots in Texas.
Best time to go:
Usually late October, sometimes into early November.
Tips:
The canyon is closed overnight, so plan a daytime hike. Bring plenty of water — it’s still dry country. Visit the National Park Service page for current conditions.
4. Daingerfield State Park – East Texas
If you love tall pines and mirrored lakes, Daingerfield is for you. The park has a mix of sweetgums, oaks, and maples that turn a rainbow of colors. The small lake in the middle reflects all the foliage perfectly — ideal for photography.
Best time to go:
Late October to mid-November.
What to do:
Take the 2.4-mile Rustling Leaves Trail around the lake, or rent a canoe to see the colors from the water. Check park details here
5. Tyler State Park – Tyler
This is one of East Texas’s most popular parks, known for its tall pines mixed with sweetgum and dogwood trees. The reflection of fall colors on the clear lake is stunning.
Best time to go:
Late October through mid-November.
Tips:
Bring your bike or kayak — the park has both land and water trails that show off the best views. More info on the Tyler State Park site
6. Palo Duro Canyon State Park – Near Amarillo
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon offers an incredible mix of red rock cliffs, golden cottonwoods, and mesquite trees that light up in fall. The contrast between the canyon walls and the yellow leaves is breathtaking.
Best time to go:
Mid to late October.
What to do:
Drive the scenic loop for stunning overlooks, or hike the Lighthouse Trail — it’s one of the most popular in the park. Visit the official park page for maps and entry info.
7. Caddo Lake State Park – Karnack
Caddo Lake is one of the most unique places in Texas. Picture towering bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, turning shades of orange and rust over calm, misty water. It’s straight out of a painting.
Best time to go:
Late October to mid-November.
What to do:
Rent a canoe or kayak and paddle through the bayous to experience the colors up close. The morning light on the water is magical. Learn more on the Caddo Lake State Park website.
8. Sabine National Forest – East Texas
This forest near the Louisiana border covers over 160,000 acres of oaks, sweetgums, and maples that shine in every fall color imaginable. It’s less crowded than state parks, perfect for quiet drives or camping trips.
Best time to go:
Late October through mid-November.
What to do:
Drive the Toledo Bend Reservoir scenic routes, explore the trails, or take a picnic near the lake. Visit the U.S. Forest Service site for details and maps.
9. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area – Fredericksburg
You might come here for the pink granite dome, but the surrounding oak and mesquite woodlands also change beautifully in the fall. Plus, the cooler weather makes hiking much more enjoyable.
Best time to go:
Late October to early November.
What to do:
Hike to the summit for 360° views of the Hill Country in fall colors. The area around Fredericksburg also has wineries and cute small-town charm — perfect for a fall weekend trip. See details on the TPWD site.
10. Colorado Bend State Park – Bend, TX
Colorado Bend combines rugged trails, waterfalls, and fall color all in one spot. You’ll see bald cypress and pecan trees along the river turning warm shades of orange and yellow.
Best time to go:
Late October through early November.
What to do:
Hike to Gorman Falls, one of Texas’s most beautiful waterfalls, or explore the Spicewood Springs Trail. Bring good shoes — it’s rocky but worth it. More info on the Colorado Bend State Park website.
Final Thoughts
Texas has a huge variety of landscapes — canyons, lakes, forests, and rolling hills — and each one offers a unique fall experience. If you plan your trips between mid-October and mid-November, you can easily catch the color change across different regions of the state.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When is the best time to see fall colors in Texas?
Usually from mid-October to mid-November, depending on the weather and location.
2. Where is the best place to see fall foliage in Texas?
Lost Maples State Natural Area is the most popular spot, but places like Garner State Park and Caddo Lake are also stunning.
3. Does Texas really get fall colors?
Yes! While it’s not like New England, Texas has maples, oaks, and cypress trees that show amazing color, especially in the Hill Country and East Texas.
4. What should I bring for a fall foliage trip?
Comfortable shoes, water, snacks, a camera, and layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons.
5. Are Texas state parks crowded in the fall?
Popular parks like Lost Maples can get busy on weekends. Try visiting early in the morning or on weekdays for fewer crowds.
