Northwest SA
Government Canyon State Natural Area
HikingCampingBirdingTrail Running
Northwest SA
Government Canyon State Natural Area is a 13,000-acre Texas Parks & Wildlife preserve on San Antonio's northwest edge — by far the largest protected open space within reach of the city — with more than 40 miles of trails crossing grasslands, rocky canyons, and riparian corridors. The headliner is the Joe Johnston Route, a backcountry trail that leads to both the 1880s Zizelmann House and the only known dinosaur footprints on public land in Bexar County, tracks left by Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon roughly 104 million years ago. Hikers can also reach the Chula Vista and Sotol overlooks via the Far Reaches Trail, while the 1.23-mile Discovery Trail offers an accessible entry point for families. The park's Protected Habitat Area — home to the endangered Golden-cheeked Warbler — opens annually September through February. The park is open Friday through Monday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and Tuesday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Day-use entry is $6 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Twenty-three walk-in tent campsites and two group tent camps are available for overnight stays. Because the backcountry trails are long and largely shadeless, carrying at least two liters of water per person is essential in warm months.
Shade Details
Mixed cover: exposed limestone ridges alternate with shaded creek drainages. Backcountry routes more exposed.
Conditions & Tips
Park closes during Stage 2+ burn bans. Backcountry camping requires advance reservation. Carry at least 2L water per person.
Dry creek crossings become impassable after heavy rain.
Lytle's Loop
Good introductory loop, mostly flat
Savannah Loop
SWR Parkway Walking Path
Old Stillwater Ranch Path