The Waterfall That Named Wichita Falls Was Washed Away in 1886

The city was platted in 1876 near small natural falls on the Wichita River. A flood in 1886 washed the original falls away, leaving the city with a name but no falls. For about 100 years, visitors who came looking for a waterfall found only a river.

In 1987, the city built a new multi-level cascade on the south bank of the Wichita River in Lucy Park, standing 54 feet tall. It is visible from the I-44 bridge heading south. As of early 2026, the falls are temporarily closed for structural repairs, though the surrounding trail remains open. Check wichitafallstx.gov for current status before visiting.