Camping at Government Canyon State Natural Area

Overview of Government Canyon State Natural Area

Government Canyon State Natural Area, located in Bexar County, Texas, is a beautiful and expansive natural area that spans over 12,000 acres. It is a part of the Texas State Park system and is situated in the northern part of the city of San Antonio. This park is known for its rugged terrain, scenic vistas, diverse wildlife, and prehistoric dinosaur tracks. It offers a serene getaway for nature enthusiasts with over 40 miles of hiking and biking trails.

Camping Information

Reservations:

• Campsites can be reserved in advance, which is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
• Reservations can be made online through the Texas State Parks reservation system or by calling the park.

Types of Camping:

• Government Canyon State Natural Area offers both front-country (near the parking area) and backcountry (hike-in) campsites.
• The campsites are primarily primitive, with no electric or water hookups.

Front-Country Camping:

• These campsites have nearby restrooms with flush toilets and are relatively close to parking areas.
• They may also include amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.

Back-Country Camping:

• Back-country sites require hiking several miles into the natural area, so campers must be prepared to carry all essentials.
• These sites offer a more secluded and wilderness-like experience but do not have access to water or restroom facilities.

Facilities and Amenities:

• While some essential amenities are provided, campers are expected to bring their necessary gear, like water (especially for back-country camping), food, and camping equipment.
• Fires are typically permitted in designated fire rings, but it is crucial to check for current burn bans due to varying conditions.

Rules and Regulations:

• It is essential to follow Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and minimizing the impact on the environment.
• Pets are allowed in the park but must be kept on a leash at all times.
• It is important to respect the park's wildlife and plants by not disturbing or feeding them and staying on designated trails.
• Quiet hours are typically enforced to ensure a peaceful experience for all campers.

Activities and Attractions

Hiking and Biking:

• With over 40 miles of trails, visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking through diverse habitats and geological features.

Wildlife Viewing:

• The natural area is a habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, reptiles, and insects - making it an excellent site for wildlife enthusiasts.

Dinosaur Tracks:

• A significant attraction of the park is the set of well-preserved dinosaur tracks that are over 110 million years old.

Educational Programs:

• The park often offers interpretive and educational programs that vary by season and include guided hikes, star parties, and nature talks.

Preparation Tips

• Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly; weather can be quite hot in summer and cool in winter.
• Make sure to have a map of the park and familiarize yourself with the trail system, particularly if you plan to use back-country campsites.
• Carry plenty of water, especially if you're camping or hiking in the back-country, as the Texas heat can be intense and dehydration is a risk.
• Don protective clothing and use repellant to guard against potential ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests.
• It's always wise to inform someone about your camping or hiking plans and expected return time.

Contact Information and Location

Before heading out, contact the park directly or visit the Texas Parks and Wildlife website for the most current information and any alerts or updates that may affect your visit.

Government Canyon State Natural Area 12861 Galm Road San Antonio, TX 78254 Phone: (210) 688-9055

Operating hours and access can vary, so it is essential to confirm details prior to planning your trip.