Local Landmark
The Waterfall That Named Wichita Falls Was Washed Away in 1886
A flood destroyed the original falls on the Wichita River in 1886, but the city built a 54-foot artificial waterfall in 1987 that now stands beside Lucy Park.
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.
Source to confirm: City of Wichita Falls – The Falls