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Government Canyon State Natural Area

Created to protect the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and a portion of the Edward's Aquifer recharge zone — San Antonio's source of fresh water. After a day here, you’ll undoubtedly find yourself feeling recharged. This undeveloped natural area is as serene an environment as you will find.

Things to Do

Government Canyon State Natural Area has more than 40 miles of hiking and biking trails that range from remote rugged canyon lands to gently rolling grasslands. Natural Area visitors may enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including, picnicking, hiking, biking, trail running, geochaching, regularly scheduled guided hikes, and ranger programs. Some of the monthly hikes/programs include: Haiku Hike, Hike the Canyon, Explore the Canyon, and Family Fun. For those looking for a place to go bird watching, Government Canyon is a good place to find the elusive and endangered Golden-Cheeked Warbler.

The Natural Area now allows overnight camping on Fridays and Saturdays. There are regular walk-in (50-60 yards) campsites, and two group walk-in campsites that allow up to sixteen persons per site,  Reservations are now being accepted. Read the September 5, 2012 news release, "Government Canyon State Natural Area to Open Campground".

Please call ahead for further information, as trail conditions and special events may affect hours of operation and trail accessibility.

Government Canyon State Natural Area is a highly sensitive ecosystem that needs your help to remain pristine. To reduce the human impact on the natural area please follow the Leave No Trace principles of outdoor ethics. Government Canyon state natural area is an official Leave No Trace partner.

Ranger Programs

The park offers a variety of educational opportunities. Check the calendar for upcoming events or contact the park for special tours.

Volunteers are welcome at Government Canyon state natural area. There are many different volunteer opportunities for interested individuals. Organized volunteer groups include Friends of Government Canyon and Trail Patrol, but other opportunities are also available. Government Canyon also seeks park hosts to stay for an extended period in exchange for volunteer duties. Please contact Government Canyon directly for more information on volunteering. More information on volunteer opportunities at all State Parks.

Area Attractions

Nearby attractions include Casa Navarro State Historic Site, Landmark Inn State Historic Site, Hill Country State Natural Area, The Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (four Spanish frontier missions operated by the National Park Service), Sea World and Fiesta Texas.

12861 Galm Rd
San Antonio, TX 78254

Latitude: 29.571323

Longitude: -98.753246

(210) 688-9055

Make reservations online

Reserve by phone: (512) 389-8900
Reserve by fax

Entrance Fees
  • Adult: $6 Daily
  • Child 12 Years and Under: Free
Schedule

Open Friday through Monday
Closed Tuesday through Thursday
Gate is open from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.The Natural Area will be open additional days during some holidays. The 2012 additional days will be: March 13-15 (Spring Break), June 19 (Emancipation Day), July 3-5 (Independence Day), November 20-22 (Thanksgiving) and December 25-27.

The Protected Habitat Area trails are open annually September through February. All other trails are open all year. All pets and domesticated animals are restricted to the front country trails.

Contact the natural area for more information prior to arrival, as trails may be closed due to poor conditions or weather.

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