Government Canyon State Natural Area

Government Canyon State Natural Area offers families an incredible outdoor adventure with over 40 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, plus the unforgettable experience of seeing actual dinosaur tracks preserved in stone. This 12,000-acre Hill Country preserve provides endless opportunities for wildlife spotting, nature education, and getting kids excited about geology and paleontology in a stunning natural setting.

• ✓110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks visible along an accessible interpretive trail
• ✓Wildlife viewing including deer, roadrunners, armadillos, and over 200 bird species
• ✓Junior Ranger program with activity booklets for kids
• ✓Historic Zizelmann House and springhouse offering glimpses into Hill Country history
• ✓Scenic overlooks with panoramic views of the Texas Hill Country perfect for family photos

1. 1.Make reservations online in advance as daily visitor numbers are limited to protect the natural area,weekends fill up quickly
2. 2.Start with the Dinosaur Tracks Trail (1.4 miles round trip) to see 110-million-year-old tracks,bring a field guide to identify the different species
3. 3.Arrive early (when gates open at 7 AM) for cooler temperatures, better wildlife viewing, and parking closer to trailheads
4. 4.Pack plenty of water (bring more than you think you'll need), sun protection, and sturdy closed-toe shoes,trails are rocky and there's limited shade
5. 5.Stop at the visitor center first for trail maps, Junior Ranger activity booklets, and to let kids use the nature discovery boxes before hitting the trails

Visit October through April for the most comfortable hiking temperatures, ideally on weekday mornings when trails are less crowded and wildlife is most active. Spring (March-May) offers wildflower blooms and milder weather, making it perfect for families with younger children.

Day passes are $8 per adult (kids 12 and under free). No pets allowed to protect wildlife. Bring all food and drinks as there are no concessions on-site, and cell service is limited throughout the preserve.

Summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot with temperatures over 100°F,visit early morning only if coming in summer. Trail conditions may be muddy after heavy rains. The park occasionally closes for prescribed burns or extreme weather, so check their website before visiting.

Head to The Barn Door Restaurant (8 miles away) in Helotes for Texas-sized portions of comfort food including chicken tenders and burgers kids love, or stop at Rudy's Country Store and Bar-B-Q (10 miles) for quick, family-friendly Texas barbecue with outdoor seating.