Dinosaur Tracks in Government Canyon

Step back 110 million years at Government Canyon State Natural Area, where your kids can see real Acrocanthosaurus dinosaur tracks preserved in limestone! This incredible Hill Country preserve combines prehistoric wonder with beautiful hiking trails, making it an unforgettable educational adventure that gets children excited about science and nature.

• ✓Authentic 110-million-year-old Acrocanthosaurus dinosaur footprints visible in limestone
• ✓The scenic 1.3-mile Dinosaur Tracks Trail with interpretive signs
• ✓Over 40 miles of additional hiking and biking trails for extended family adventures
• ✓Educational visitor center with exhibits about Hill Country ecology and paleontology
• ✓Stunning views from the canyon overlook

1. 1.Make reservations online in advance - the park limits daily visitors to protect the natural areas and track sites, and weekends fill up quickly
2. 2.The dinosaur tracks are about 1.3 miles from the trailhead; wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water as the trail can be rocky
3. 3.Download or pick up the park's interpretive guide to help kids identify different track types and understand what they're seeing
4. 4.Arrive early (right at 7 AM opening) for cooler temperatures and the best light for photographing the tracks
5. 5.Bring binoculars for wildlife spotting along the trails - kids love looking for deer, roadrunners, and various bird species

Visit on cooler weekend mornings (Friday-Monday) between October and April. Early morning arrival (7-8 AM) offers comfortable temperatures for hiking, better wildlife viewing, and smaller crowds. Avoid summer midday heat when temperatures can exceed 100°F.

Day passes are $7 for adults (kids 12 and under are free) and must be reserved online at Texas State Parks website. The park is closed Tuesday-Thursday for resource protection. Bring your own snacks and water as there are no food services on-site.

Best visited October through April when temperatures are mild for hiking. Summer visits (May-September) are challenging due to extreme heat; if visiting in summer, go immediately at opening. Park may close during severe weather or high fire danger. Spring wildflower season (March-April) adds extra beauty to the trails.

Head to Bulverde (about 15 minutes away) for kid-friendly options like Creek Restaurant for burgers and comfort food, or drive 20 minutes to Boerne's Main Street for multiple casual dining options including Chipotle, Which Wich, and local ice cream shops.