Government Canyon State Natural Area
Explore ancient dinosaur tracks and rugged trails in this expansive natural area northwest of San Antonio.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Best Time
Pleasant temps for hiking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore ancient dinosaur tracks and rugged trails in this expansive natural area northwest of San Antonio.
"Walk in the footsteps of giants and enjoy stunning Texas landscapes at Government Canyon!"
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, pack more than you think you need. Heat rescues happen even in spring. :droplet:
👟 Trail Terrain Alert
Many trails are rocky and uneven. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and stability. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dinosaur Tracks
Main Trail
Walk in the footsteps of giants! See 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks from large sauropods.
+1
Overlook Trail Views
Overlook Trail
Capture panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. A must-see for scenic beauty.
Kid-Friendly Trails
Front Country
Stroller-friendly paths and a playscape make it fun for the whole family.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Hydration is Key!
Check Park Status & Reservations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, pack more than you think you need. Heat rescues happen even in spring. :droplet:
👟 Trail Terrain Alert
Many trails are rocky and uneven. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and stability. :athletic_shoe:
🐾 Dog Policy Check
Most trails are 'no dogs allowed.' Check specific trail rules before you go. :dog:
📅 Check Park Hours
Government Canyon is only open Friday through Monday. Plan accordingly! :calendar:
Tips
from all over the internet
💧 Bring Extra Water!
Seriously, pack more than you think you need. Heat rescues happen even in spring. :droplet:
👟 Trail Terrain Alert
Many trails are rocky and uneven. Wear sturdy hiking shoes for comfort and stability. :athletic_shoe:
🐾 Dog Policy Check
Most trails are 'no dogs allowed.' Check specific trail rules before you go. :dog:
📅 Check Park Hours
Government Canyon is only open Friday through Monday. Plan accordingly! :calendar:
📱 Download Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download offline maps of the trails beforehand. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and the unique dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon. The well-maintained trails and friendly staff are frequently praised. However, some find the rocky terrain challenging, and the limited operating days (Friday-Monday) can be a drawback for some planning their visit.
"Hiked the Bluff Spurs trails (north & south). If you enjoy wildlife, flowers, scenic views, and birds this is the place to enjoy it. Day passes are $6, for camping it is recommended reserve in advance via the website. Staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. Trails are maintained but the terrain is hilly and rough. Most of the trails are “no dogs allowed”. The huge number of trails and the remote location insures no crowded areas. We very much enjoyed hiking here and will be back to try other trails."
Reuben Reyes
"Government Canyon State Natural Area is only open Friday through Monday. If you are camping, I'd make a reservation in advance. If the trails are wet/muddy they will close access because of erosion. Some of the trails I hiked have dense cedar trees which block the wind so expect if the temperature is hot you won't get much breeze. Trails with small loose rocks make it a challenge for hikers. You also have to watch out for mountain bikers going very fast on shared trails. The trails are very well marked and the front country is more like a state park than a natural area. I'll be back again when it is cooler to explore more trails."
Larry B.
"Such a beautiful area! We hiked almost 7 miles just past the tracks, hopped on Overlook Trail and then headed back. The tracks are really cool to see. The best view is from the Overlook Trail. The only negative, the trail is rocks. I'm not a fan of hiking on gravel but this was some smaller gravel and a lot of larger rocks. We hiked it in about 2 hours 20 minutes but took our time."
Angie Andrews
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Government Canyon State Natural Area is located about 25 miles northwest of San Antonio. The most common way to get there is by car. Take TX-16 N to Camp Bullis Rd, then turn left onto Ralph Fair Rd. Follow Ralph Fair Rd to John's Rd, and then turn right onto Government Canyon Rd. The park entrance will be on your left.
Currently, there is no direct public transportation service to Government Canyon State Natural Area. Visitors typically need to drive their own vehicle or arrange for a ride-sharing service.
From San Antonio, head northwest on TX-16 N. Turn left onto Camp Bullis Rd, then left onto Ralph Fair Rd. Continue on Ralph Fair Rd until you reach John's Rd, where you'll turn right. Finally, turn right onto Government Canyon Rd, and the park entrance will be on your left.
Government Canyon State Natural Area is approximately 25 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio. The drive typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
While there is no separate parking fee, the park charges a day-use fee per person. This fee is $6 per adult for day passes. Camping fees are separate and vary.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Government Canyon State Natural Area is open Friday through Monday. It is closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Always check the official Texas State Parks website for the most up-to-date hours and any potential closures.
The day-use fee for adults is $6. Children 12 and under are free. Camping fees are additional and vary based on the type of campsite.
For day use, reservations are not always required but are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. For camping, reservations are essential and should be made in advance through the Texas State Parks website.
Yes, you can typically purchase day-use tickets at the park entrance. However, to guarantee entry, especially during peak times, it's best to reserve your day pass online in advance.
Children 12 and under are admitted free. Texas State Parks Pass holders may receive free entry. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for any other potential discounts or special offers.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Popular trails include the Bluff Spurs trails for scenic views, the main trail to see dinosaur tracks, and the Overlook Trail for panoramic vistas. For families, the front country trails are more accessible.
Yes, Government Canyon is famous for its 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks, primarily from sauropods. These are located along the main trail.
Absolutely! The front country area offers kid-friendly and stroller-friendly trails, along with a playscape, making it a great option for families.
Visitors often report seeing wildlife such as deer, birds, and various small animals. The park's natural setting provides a good habitat for local fauna.
Most trails at Government Canyon State Natural Area prohibit dogs. However, dogs are allowed in the front country camping area and on paved roads. Always check specific trail regulations.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Lodging
Yes, Government Canyon offers camping facilities, including campsites. Reservations are highly recommended and should be made in advance through the Texas State Parks website.
Camping reservations can be made online through the official Texas State Parks reservation system or by calling their reservation center. It's advisable to book well in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
The park offers various camping options, including primitive campsites and potentially RV sites. Check the Texas State Parks website for specific details on amenities and availability.
Campers should be aware of park hours, quiet hours, and any fire restrictions. Dogs are generally allowed in the front country camping area but not on most trails.
While Government Canyon itself is primarily for camping, there are hotels and other lodging options available in the nearby city of San Antonio for those who prefer not to camp.
📸 📸 Photography
The Overlook Trail offers stunning panoramic views, perfect for landscape photography. The dinosaur tracks also make for unique and memorable shots. +1
Yes, the natural setting provides opportunities for wildlife photography. Keep an eye out for birds, deer, and other native animals, especially during dawn and dusk.
Government Canyon was a viewing location for the 2024 solar eclipse. If you plan to photograph future celestial events, ensure you have the proper equipment and safety precautions.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require special permits. Always check with park staff if you have specific professional needs.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. This is also when wildlife is often most active.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
There's also a playscape that kids will love. The dinosaur tracks are a huge hit with children, offering an exciting glimpse into prehistoric life. +1 Remember to pack plenty of water and snacks, as the Texas sun can be strong even for young explorers. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
🏕️ Campers
Remember to pack all your camping essentials and be mindful of park rules, including quiet hours. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails
For a more challenging experience, the back country trails offer rugged terrain and significant elevation changes, rewarding hikers with remote beauty and solitude. When planning your hike, consult the Government Canyon State Natural Area map or trail map to choose routes that align with your fitness level and interests. Popular choices include the Bluff Spurs trails, known for their scenic overlooks, and the main trail leading to the iconic dinosaur tracks.
+1 Remember that many trails are shared with mountain bikers, so be aware of your surroundings and yield appropriately. Important Note on Terrain: Be prepared for rocky and uneven surfaces on many trails. The presence of small loose rocks and larger stones can make hiking challenging, so sturdy footwear is essential.
Discovering Ancient History: Dinosaur Tracks
+1 The tracks are a significant paleontological find and a major draw for visitors of all ages.To reach the dinosaur tracks, most visitors take the main trail. The hike is approximately five miles round trip and is considered moderately challenging due to the rocky terrain.
Park rangers and volunteers sometimes offer guided tours that delve into the geology and paleontology of the area, providing deeper insights into how these fossils were formed and discovered.
These tours can enhance the educational value of your visit, explaining how the area was once a shallow beach near the Gulf of Mexico during the Cretaceous Period. Camping and Outdoor Adventures
Camping reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and holidays, as the park can fill up. Camping here provides a unique opportunity to experience the park after the day-use visitors have left. Imagine enjoying the quiet evenings, stargazing, and waking up to the sounds of nature.
While dogs are generally not allowed on the trails, they are permitted in the front country camping area, making it a great spot for those who want to bring their furry companions along for the outdoor adventure. Beyond camping, the park is ideal for a variety of outdoor activities. Hiking is the primary draw, but the natural setting also lends itself to birdwatching and wildlife observation.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit