RSS
Home
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
photo courtesy of Government Canyon State Natural Area website, http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/government_canyon/
12861 Galm Rd
San Antonio TX 78254
210/688-9055
Government Canyon State Natural Area is probably San Antonio's newest best kept secret. About half an hour west of San Antonio, near Bandera, TX, the park itself has only been around a few years, as community members with much foresight chose to help purchase and reserve the property for natural preservation purposes and for the enjoyment of visitors. The Natural Area is filled with walking trails, bike trails, pet-friendly areas, and special hike programs such as the Haiku Hike mentioned in another article, which goes out every first Sunday of the month. The Protected Habitat Area is only open September through February, which is probably an ideal time to visit Government Canyon as the Texas summer sun will be less brutal. If visiting during summer season, bring plenty of water, including for your pets, a snack and sunblock.
Park entrance fees are only $6 per adult which goes directly to the conservation of the Park grounds, thus, helping to protect local wildlife including the endangered Golden Cheeked Warblers and other species that come from the Edwards Acquifer zone. All monies collected go to the Natural Area itself. Government Canyon State Natural Area is the cleanest State or National Park I have visited and has the friendliest staff. As a new attraction for the Hill Country, they are very open to suggestions on what visitors would like to see and are seeking to expand the programs they currently offer, as well as their number of volunteers. Nature enthusiasts will feel at home here, and children will be in a natural learning environment.
