This 12,244-acre state park opened to the public in October 2005. It preserves the rugged canyons and hills of typical Texas Hill Country. It is a great place to hike, picnic, and see wildlife. It is also an excellent place to learn about the local flora and fauna.
The Government Canyon State Natural Area offers an abundance of hiking trails. The terrain ranges from remote canyon lands to gentle grasslands. Whether you’re a first-time hiker or an experienced outdoor enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to explore. Hiking trails through the natural park feature prehistoric dinosaurs, Native American habitats, a 19th-century dwelling, and other attractions. In addition to the natural beauty, hiking is also an excellent way to learn about 
the area’s history and culture.
There are over 40 miles of hiking trails in Government Canyon. Some trails are designated for hiking only, while others are perfect for exploring the area’s varied terrain. Besides hiking, visitors to the Natural Area can also enjoy trail running, geocaching, and biking. There are also regularly scheduled programs and guided hikes.
To avoid crowds, plan to arrive early. The park is typically open from 7 am to 10 pm. During holidays and spring breaks, there are extended hours. If you’re planning to hike or bike, check their website for updates. The park also maintains a social media account where visitors can find out about park closings and other information.
There are many species of birds and animals that live at GCSNA. Golden-cheeked warblers and black-capped vireo nest in the area, while armadillos, wild turkeys, and skunks are common. Some animals are rare, including mountain lions and fox squirrels.
The Government Canyon State Natural Area is located in northwest Bexar County, TX. It contains over 12,000 acres of land. Some of its attractions include dinosaur tracks, a historic house, and remnants of a ranch. The area also protects the Edwards Aquifer, which supplies the city of San Antonio with water.
This area was once home to Native Americans and early human settlers. During these times, they used plentiful wildlife and rich soil for farming. Eventually, European immigrants began using the region for ranching. In the 1850s, the US government laid a road through the region. This road became known as the government road. The name has stuck.
There are a few campgrounds nearby for those who prefer to spend more time outdoors. The Government Canyon State Natural Area has tent camping about twelve miles from San Antonio. The nearby Tejas Valley RV Park has over 100 sites with full hookups and showers. If you are traveling with a motorhome, Medina Lake RV Campground offers over 400 sites with full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
