Texas is a land full of wide skies, dusty roads, and deep history — and with all that comes some seriously spooky stories. From ghostly figures to strange creatures, these legends have been passed down for generations.
Some are based on true events, while others live on through whispers and warnings. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, these eerie Texas tales are sure to send a shiver down your spine.
Let’s explore 15 of the creepiest and most famous myths and legends from the Lone Star State.
1. The Chupacabra
Known as the “goat-sucker,” this creature is said to suck the blood out of livestock, leaving behind dead animals with strange puncture wounds. It’s described as a hairless, dog-like monster with sharp teeth and scaly skin. Sightings still pop up from time to time.
2. La Lechuza
This legend tells of a woman turned into a giant owl with the face of an old woman. It’s said she cries like a baby to lure people to their death, seeking revenge for the death of her child.
3. El Muerto
A headless horseman wearing old Mexican vaquero clothing rides through the night with arrows in his body and his head tied to the saddle. His tale dates back to the 1850s and mixes legend with a bit of history.
4. The Lake Worth Monster
Half-man, half-goat, the “Goat-Man” of Fort Worth was first seen in 1969. He allegedly jumped onto a couple’s car and scratched it. Witnesses described glowing orange eyes, fur, and scales.
5. La Llorona
The “Weeping Woman” walks near rivers and canals, crying for her lost children. Legend says she may drown others or attack men who cross her path.
6. The Black-Eyed Children
First reported in Abilene, these strange children have completely black eyes and often ask for help or rides. Many say they feel intense fear around them. The rule? Never let them in.
7. Donkey Lady Bridge
In San Antonio, this ghostly figure is said to be the burned and grieving spirit of a woman who lost her family in a fire. Locals say her donkey-like face still screams in the night near Elm Creek.
8. Arlington’s Screaming Bridge
After a tragic accident in 1961, people claim to still hear the screams of teenage girls who died when their car fell from the bridge. The bridge is now closed but remains a chilling location.
9. Bigfoot Wallace
A legendary mail carrier in South Texas who wore hickory wood in his shirt to block arrows. His bravery made him a Texas folk hero, though many details of his story remain part of legend.
10. Centre Theater
In Corpus Christi, this old theater is said to be haunted by a former usher who was murdered. Shadows and strange figures are still seen by visitors during shows.
11. The Dancing Devil
A schoolgirl sneaks out to a dance in a red dress and ends up dancing with the devil himself. The floor melts, and she vanishes in a puff of smoke, never to be seen again.
12. The Fang Baby
A group of drunk friends see a bloody baby on the side of Old Pearsall Road. Later, the driver claims the baby attacked him and bit his neck. The legend warns people never to return to that road.
13. Ghost Handprints
At a railway crossing in San Antonio, legend says a school bus full of children was hit by a train. Now, if you stop your car there, small handprints appear on the windows, as if the kids are trying to push you to safety.
14. The Lady of White Rock Lake
A young, wet woman in 1930s clothing appears to drivers near Dallas, asking for a ride. Once in the car, she vanishes, leaving behind a soaked seat.
15. Old Alton Bridge
Another Goat-Man story, but this one comes with a tragic twist involving racism and revenge. The spirit of a black farmer, Oscar Washburn, is said to haunt the bridge after being lynched by the KKK. Cross the bridge without headlights, and you might meet the Goat-Man face to face.
Conclusion: Do You Dare Believe?
From headless riders to weeping spirits and black-eyed children, Texas has no shortage of scary stories. Some may be just folklore, others rooted in truth — but all of them add to the mysterious charm of the Lone Star State.
Whether you’re in Dallas, San Antonio, or a small town in between, be careful where you go after dark. In Texas, you never know what might be waiting in the shadows.