Colorado Bend State Park: A Solo Camping Journey of Self-Discovery

Divorce. It's a word that carries a lot of weight, a word that can leave you feeling lost and adrift. As I navigated my own recent split, I knew I needed to reconnect with myself, to find that inner strength I seemed to have misplaced somewhere along the way. What better way to do that than by immersing myself in nature? So, I packed my car and headed to Colorado Bend State Park, a gem nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, ready for a solo camping adventure. This Texas State Park Getaway would be my chance to find myself again. Turns out, it was exactly what my soul needed. As a beginner camper but an experienced hiker and kayaker, I felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. Would I survive setting up a tent alone? Would I get lost? Turns out, with a little planning (and a lot of patience), I not only survived but thrived. This is my story of finding peace, strength, and a surprising amount of humor amidst the rugged beauty of Colorado Bend.

Finding My Way: The Road to Colorado Bend

The drive to Colorado Bend State Park is an experience in itself. Winding through the scenic Texas countryside, the landscape slowly transforms from rolling hills to more rugged terrain. I punched the coordinates for the Gorman Falls trailhead (30.9584° N, 98.5254° W) into my GPS, a crucial step since cell service becomes increasingly spotty as you get closer. A word to the wise: download offline maps on the AllTrails app before you go! Trust me, you'll thank me later.

Now, about Park Road 4… let’s just say it’s not for the faint of heart. This unpaved road is notorious for being prone to washboarding, those relentless little ripples that rattle your teeth and test your suspension. Seriously, heed this warning: use a vehicle with higher clearance. My little sedan groaned and complained the entire way, but we made it. Just be prepared for a bumpy ride!

Setting Up Camp: A Comedy of Errors

Arriving at the designated camping area, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty of the place. Towering trees provided ample shade, and the air was filled with the sounds of birds chirping. This was exactly the escape I needed.

Then came the moment of truth: setting up my REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 tent. Now, I’ve been hiking for years, but camping? Not so much. Armed with the instructions and a healthy dose of optimism, I laid out the tent, unfurled the poles, and promptly got tangled in a web of fabric and frustration. After what felt like an eternity (but was probably only 30 minutes), I finally managed to erect a somewhat lopsided but functional shelter. Victory!

Next up: the Coleman Classic Propane Stove. Oh, the stories I could tell! This seemingly simple device proved to be my nemesis. I wrestled with the propane tank, fumbled with the igniter, and nearly set my eyebrows on fire in the process. (More on that in the viral video concept below!). Let’s just say there were multiple matches involved, a fair amount of cursing under my breath, and a brief moment where I considered eating cold beans straight from the can. Eventually, after consulting a YouTube tutorial and channeling my inner engineer, I managed to coax the stove to life. The triumphant sizzle of bacon frying was one of the most satisfying sounds I’ve ever heard.

Park Rules: Respecting Mother Nature (and Avoiding Fines)

Colorado Bend State Park is a treasure, and it’s important to treat it with respect. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has several regulations in place to protect the park's natural resources, so it's vital to familiarize yourself with them before your visit. Some key rules to keep in mind:

• Quiet Hours: Keep the noise down between 10 PM and 6 AM. Your fellow campers (and the local wildlife) will thank you.
• Leash Laws: If you bring your furry friend, make sure they're on a leash at all times. (Check the latest pet policies, as they can change).
• No Firewood Collection: Do not collect firewood within the park. You can purchase firewood at the park store or bring your own.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in. Let’s keep this place beautiful for future generations.

Bathrooms & Showering: Creature Comforts in the Wild

Let’s be honest, bathroom facilities are a crucial part of any camping trip. Colorado Bend State Park offers clean and well-maintained restrooms throughout the camping areas. They’re not exactly luxurious, but they get the job done.

For those craving a proper shower, the park provides pay-per-use shower facilities. These are located near the restrooms and offer a welcome opportunity to rinse off the dust and sweat of the day. The showers were surprisingly clean, and the water pressure was decent – a definite upgrade from my usual post-hike bird bath.

Activities: Exploring the Wonders of Colorado Bend

Colorado Bend State Park is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. With miles of hiking trails, stunning waterfalls, and fascinating caves, there's something for everyone.

Gorman Falls Hike: A Descent into Paradise

The Gorman Falls hike is undoubtedly the highlight of Colorado Bend State Park. This 1.5-mile roundtrip trail leads you to a breathtaking 65-foot waterfall cascading down a travertine cliff.

The hike itself is relatively short but can be challenging in sections. The terrain is steep and slippery, especially as you approach the falls. Be prepared to use the cables provided to descend the final stretch. It can be a bit daunting, but trust me, the reward is well worth the effort.

As I rounded the final bend and caught my first glimpse of Gorman Falls, I was completely mesmerized. The sound of the rushing water filled the air, creating a soothing and invigorating symphony. Lush greenery clung to the cliffs surrounding the falls, creating a vibrant oasis in the arid landscape. I spent a long time simply sitting and soaking in the beauty, feeling the cool mist on my face and letting the sound of the water wash away my worries.

Spicewood Springs Trail: A Refreshing Respite

After the Gorman Falls hike, I decided to explore the Spicewood Springs Trail. This 2.6-mile loop offers a different kind of beauty, with clear, spring-fed pools perfect for swimming and cooling off.

The water was incredibly refreshing, and I couldn't resist taking a dip. It was a welcome respite from the Texas heat, and I felt rejuvenated and invigorated after my swim. The Spicewood Springs Trail is a great option for families with children, as the pools are shallow and safe for swimming.

Cave Exploration: Delving into the Darkness

Colorado Bend State Park is also home to a fascinating network of caves. Guided cave tours are offered regularly, providing a unique opportunity to explore the park's subterranean wonders.

I signed up for the Discovery Cave Tour, which promised a challenging but rewarding experience. And challenging it was! The tour involved squeezing through tight passages, crawling on my hands and knees, and navigating slippery rocks. I strongly recommend wearing long pants and closed-toe shoes for this adventure.

The cave formations were incredible, with stalactites and stalagmites creating otherworldly landscapes. Our guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, sharing fascinating facts about the cave's geology and history. It was a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Colorado Bend Cave Tours are a must-do!

Stargazing: A Celestial Spectacle

One of the things that sets Colorado Bend State Park apart is its commitment to reducing light pollution. The park has taken steps to minimize artificial light, creating an ideal environment for stargazing. Texas Stargazing Locations do not get better than this.

As darkness fell, I ventured away from the campground and found a secluded spot to lie down and gaze at the night sky. The stars were absolutely brilliant, stretching across the heavens in a dazzling display of light. I downloaded the Sky Guide app on my phone, which helped me identify constellations and planets. As I stared up at the vast expanse of the universe, I felt a sense of solitude and peace wash over me. All alone, I realized how strong I had become. Camping after divorce was the right decision. The silence was profound, broken only by the occasional hoot of an owl. It was a truly magical experience, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists in the world.

Viral Video Concept (TikTok/Instagram Reel): "Camping Fail: Stove Edition"

• HOOK (0-3 seconds): Start in medias res. Sarah is frantically trying to light the Coleman Classic Propane Stove, using multiple matches without success. Her face is smudged with soot. The camera is a close-up of her hands and the stove.
• SCENE (3-7 seconds): Style: Comedy. Lighting: Late afternoon sunlight casting long shadows at the campsite. Camera Work: Primarily close-up shots of the stove and Sarah's increasingly frustrated face. Use shaky camera movements to emphasize the struggle. Cut quickly between shots of the stove, the matches, and Sarah's face. Use a GoPro POV to show Sarah's perspective.
• TWIST (7-10 seconds): After multiple attempts, the stove suddenly ignites with a loud "WHOOSH," briefly singeing Sarah's eyebrows. Sarah shouts in surprise and winces.
• Text Overlay (10-15 seconds): "Camping Fail: Stove Edition." Fast cuts of the WHOOSH repeating.

Emotional Journey: Finding Strength in Solitude

This solo camping trip was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of self-discovery. As I struggled to set up my tent, battled with the stove, and navigated the trails alone, I was forced to rely on my own resourcefulness and resilience.

There were moments of frustration, moments of doubt, and even a few tears. But there were also moments of profound joy, moments of quiet contemplation, and moments of overwhelming gratitude.

Being surrounded by nature, away from the distractions and pressures of everyday life, allowed me to reconnect with myself on a deeper level. I realized that I am stronger than I thought I was, more capable than I believed, and more deserving of happiness than I ever imagined. Camping after divorce has been an experience of self reflection.

Gear Recommendations: What to Pack for a Solo Camping Trip

If you're planning your own solo camping adventure, here are a few gear recommendations to help you get started:

• REI Co-op Trail Hut 2 tent
• Coleman Classic Propane Stove
• Black Diamond Spot 350 headlamp
• Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter
• Therm-a-Rest Z Lite Sol sleeping pad

Conclusion: Embracing the Adventure

My solo camping trip to Colorado Bend State Park was an experience I'll never forget. It was a chance to challenge myself, to reconnect with nature, and to discover a newfound sense of strength and independence. If you're looking for a Texas State Park Getaway that offers stunning beauty, outdoor adventure, and a chance to reconnect with yourself, I highly recommend visiting Colorado Bend. Pack your bags, embrace the unknown, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime. And if you happen to struggle with your camping stove, remember you’re not alone!

Ready to book your own adventure? Click here to make a reservation at Colorado Bend State Park!