Government Canyon State Natural Area

First Saturday Guided Hike

Join dedicated volunteers for an informative and FUN hike at Government Canyon SNA.

First Saturday Guided Hike - Read More…

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike

Do you want to hike to Government Canyon’s Protected Habitat (Pro Hab)? Are you feeling unsure about taking on such a long hike? Join experienced guides who will lead you on a series of progressively longer hikes to help you prepare for the annual Hike to the Pro Hab.

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike - Read More…

Guided Hike to the Protected Habitat Area

Ready for a longer hike? Join experienced guides for an all-day excursion into the farthest reaches of Government Canyon SNA.

Guided Hike to the Protected Habitat Area - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Nature Journaling

Slow down and deepen your experience of the natural world with mindful observations.

Nature Journaling - Read More…

Sounds of the Night

Sssshhhh...did you hear that? What was that noise?

Sounds of the Night - Read More…

Birding for Beginners

Was that a kinglet, or a kingbird? Learn how you can add birding to your outdoor skills set.

Birding for Beginners - Read More…

Prairie in Your Pocket

Wildlife habitat isn't just in our parks. Your own yard can provide a place of refuge for butterflies, birds, and other wildlife...as well as yourself.

Prairie in Your Pocket - Read More…

Colors of the Canyon

Create beautiful artwork that captures the colors of an autumn day at Government Canyon.

Colors of the Canyon - Read More…

Night Crawlers

Glow-in-the-dark scorpions, mysterious moths, and more...this night walk is just for invertebrate enthusiasts.

Night Crawlers - Read More…

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants

Take a plant walk to discover the diverse native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs of Bexar County.

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants - Read More…

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants

Take a plant walk to discover the diverse native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs of Bexar County.

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants - Read More…

First Saturday Guided Hike

Join dedicated volunteers for an informative and FUN hike at Government Canyon SNA.

First Saturday Guided Hike - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Bluff Spurs Hike

Get a bird’s-eye view of Government Canyon on this ranger-led hike.

Bluff Spurs Hike - Read More…

CANCELED-Hike to the Dino Tracks

Take a 5-mile hike with a ranger to see the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon.

CANCELED-Hike to the Dino Tracks - Read More…

Sunset History Hike

Join us on a trip back in time with a short but beautiful hike to the historic Kallison Ranch complex.

Sunset History Hike - Read More…

Kallison Ranch Hike

Join us on a trip back in time with a short but beautiful hike to the historic Kallison Ranch complex.

Kallison Ranch Hike - Read More…

CANCELLED-Kallison Ranch Hike

This hike has been cancelled due to the earlier-than-normal summer heat wave. We'll do it again another time!

CANCELLED-Kallison Ranch Hike - Read More…

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike

Do you want to hike to Government Canyon’s Protected Habitat (Pro Hab)? Are you feeling unsure about taking on such a long hike? Join experienced guides who will lead you on a series of progressively longer hikes to help you prepare for the annual Hike to the Pro Hab. These hikes will take place on rocky, uneven trails with moderate elevation change.

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike - Read More…

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike

Do you want to hike to Government Canyon’s Protected Habitat (Pro Hab)? Are you feeling unsure about taking on such a long hike? Join experienced guides who will lead you on a series of progressively longer hikes to help you prepare for the annual Hike to the Pro Hab. These hikes will take place on rocky, uneven trails with moderate elevation change.

Prep for the Pro Hab Hike - Read More…

Veterans Day Hike

Come out to Government Canyon State Natural Area and celebrate our military members with a Veteran’s Day Hike.

Veterans Day Hike - Read More…

Insectigation Hike

What's bugging you? Let's take a hike to observe some of the little things that are really running the world.

Insectigation Hike - Read More…

Nature's Gifts

For thousands of years, the diverse native plants of south-central Texas have offered food, medicine, fiber, and other gifts to people who know how to use them.

Nature's Gifts - Read More…

Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk/Ruck

Join us for a walk in honor of those we have lost to suicide and in support of those still struggling to find a way to live after their service.

Veteran Suicide Awareness Walk/Ruck - Read More…

Full Moon Hike

Join us for a short hike in the Frontcountry under the silvery light of the moon.

Full Moon Hike - Read More…

CANCELED--Fall Plant Walk

This hike is canceled, but other plant walks are coming up. Check the event calendar for other hikes. Join us as we search for fall colors, late bloomers and other interesting plants on this guided walk.

CANCELED--Fall Plant Walk - Read More…

Winter Solstice Night Hike

Take a walk over fields and through the woods on a starry (fingers crossed), moonless night...the longest night of the year.

Winter Solstice Night Hike - Read More…

CANCELED--The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants

Take a plant walk to discover the diverse native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs of Bexar County. This event is canceled on August 17, but will be offered again on August 25 and Sept. 29.

CANCELED--The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants - Read More…

Winter Holiday Traditions

Celebrate the holidays the old-fashioned way by hand-crafting items families might have been made on the historic ranches that became Government Canyon.

Winter Holiday Traditions - Read More…

Christmas Campfire Story and S'mores

Bring a blanket and settle in for a festive story read by a ranger, then make s'mores over our campfire.

Christmas Campfire Story and S'mores - Read More…

Wildlife Trick or Treat

Take a short, wooded hike to visit a series of trail stations where you'll learn about "spooky" wildlife including scorpions, bats, skunks and more. Bring your trick-or-treat gear!

Wildlife Trick or Treat - Read More…

Sounds of the Night

Sssshhhh...did you hear that? What was that noise?

Sounds of the Night - Read More…

Star Party

Bring a blanket or portable chairs for an evening of star gazing and planet-watching.

Star Party - Read More…

Mother/Daughter Hike to Bluff Spurs

Grab your daughter or mother and spend Black Friday outdoors!

Mother/Daughter Hike to Bluff Spurs - Read More…

Intro to Hiking for Women

Want to spend more time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, but unsure how to begin? Hiking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the outdoors and provides a great source of relaxation and physical fitness.

Intro to Hiking for Women - Read More…

Intro to Hiking for Women

Want to spend more time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, but unsure how to begin? Come learn about hiking and Celebrate National Trails Day at a women’s beginners hiking clinic.

Intro to Hiking for Women - Read More…

Explore the Canyon-CANCELLED

Join dedicated volunteers for an informative and FUN hike at Government Canyon SNA

Explore the Canyon-CANCELLED - Read More…

Explore the Canyon

Join dedicated volunteers for an informative and FUN hike at Government Canyon SNA

Explore the Canyon - Read More…

Family Stroll

Start your kids out on the right foot enjoying the outdoors! Join dedicated volunteers on a FUN and easy family-friendly walk.

Family Stroll - Read More…

Family Stroll

Start your kids out on the right foot enjoying the outdoors! Join dedicated volunteers on a FUN and easy family-friendly walk.

Family Stroll - Read More…

S'mores Storytime

Listen to some verses about vultures, take a walk with a ranger, and make a s'more at our campfire.

S'mores Storytime - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Bluff Spurs Hike

Get a bird’s-eye view of Government Canyon on this ranger-led hike.

Bluff Spurs Hike - Read More…

CANCELED due to weather-Nature Journaling

Slow down and deepen your experience of the natural world with mindful observations.

CANCELED due to weather-Nature Journaling - Read More…

Nature Journaling-CANCELED

Slow down and deepen your experience of the natural world with mindful observations.

Nature Journaling-CANCELED - Read More…

Nature's Gifts

For thousands of years, the diverse native plants of south-central Texas have offered food, medicine, fiber, and other gifts to people who know how to use them.

Nature's Gifts - Read More…

Warbler Walk-CANCELLED

Did you know EVERY Golden-cheeked Warbler born on Planet Earth is a Native Texan?? It’s true! Learn about these federally-listed endangered songbirds who come to Government Canyon every Spring to nest, mate and start their families here in the Texas Hill Country.

Warbler Walk-CANCELLED - Read More…

Sounds of the Night

Sssshhhh...did you hear that? What was that noise?

Sounds of the Night - Read More…

Insectigation Hike

What's bugging you? Let's take a hike to observe some of the little things that are really running the world.

Insectigation Hike - Read More…

Colors of the Canyon

Create beautiful artwork that captures the colors of an spring day at Government Canyon.

Colors of the Canyon - Read More…

Painted Bunting Walk

Search for one of the most colorful birds in Texas at Government Canyon.

Painted Bunting Walk - Read More…

Name That Tune: Birdsong Edition

Most avid birders eventually add sound identification to the tool set they use in identifying birds. But bird songs convey more information than just the identity of the singer.

Name That Tune: Birdsong Edition - Read More…

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants

Take a plant walk to discover the diverse native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs of Bexar County.

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants - Read More…

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants

Take a plant walk to discover the diverse native wildflowers, trees, and shrubs of Bexar County.

The Wonder of Texas' Native Plants - Read More…

First Day Hike: Birding

Learn about the fun and excitement of birding, including tips on using binoculars, cameras, field guides and sound recordings.

First Day Hike: Birding - Read More…

First Day Hike: Family-Friendly Morning Hike

Start the new year with a leisurely hike at Government Canyon State Natural Area with the Friends of Government Canyon.

First Day Hike: Family-Friendly Morning Hike - Read More…

First Day Hike: Trek to the Tracks

Take a 5-mile guided hike to see the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon.

First Day Hike: Trek to the Tracks - Read More…

First Day Hike: Trek to the Tracks

Take a 5-mile guided hike to see the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon.

First Day Hike: Trek to the Tracks - Read More…

First Day Hike: Tails to the Trails

Ease into the new year with your favorite canine friend on a guided dog-walk along the Savannah Loop Trail.

First Day Hike: Tails to the Trails - Read More…

Grit and Grace: Women's History Hike

Celebrate Women’s History Month with a guided hike at Government Canyon.

Grit and Grace: Women's History Hike - Read More…

Sunset History Hike

Join us on a trip back in time to the historic Kallison Ranch complex.

Sunset History Hike - Read More…

Poetry Hike

Spend a morning reading and composing poetry on this special hike. We’ll be hiking about 1.25 miles on the Discovery Trail, stopping and writing along the way.

Poetry Hike - Read More…

Hike to the Dino Tracks

Take a 5-mile hike with a ranger to see the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon.

Hike to the Dino Tracks - Read More…

Spring Has Sprung!

Learn to identify local wildflowers as we search for early bloomers and coming attractions.

Spring Has Sprung! - Read More…

Wildflower Walk

Take a hike in search of spring's best colors. Learn to identify local wildflowers, and take photos if you wish.

Wildflower Walk - Read More…

Mother's Day Wildflower Walk

Spend Mother's Day with Mother Nature and learn to identify local wildflowers.

Mother's Day Wildflower Walk - Read More…

City Nature Challenge Bioblitz & Blacklight Event

Join Jane Weeden, City Nature Challenge Bexar County Coordinator, and her volunteer team on a stroll in the canyon followed by an insect blacklighting event.

City Nature Challenge Bioblitz & Blacklight Event - Read More…

iNaturalist Nature Walk

Collect scientific observations to document biodiversity for the 2025 City Nature Challenge. Help San Antonio-area naturalists defend our title!

iNaturalist Nature Walk - Read More…

Junior Ranger Academy

Explore the trails at Government Canyon with a ranger and earn your Junior Ranger badge.

Junior Ranger Academy - Read More…

Night Crawlers

Glow-in-the-dark scorpions, mysterious moths, and more...this night walk is just for invertebrate enthusiasts.

Night Crawlers - Read More…

Poetry Hike

Spend a morning reading and composing poetry on this special hike. We’ll be hiking about 1.25 miles on the Discovery Trail, stopping and writing along the way.

Poetry Hike - Read More…

Colors of the Canyon

Create beautiful artwork that captures the colors of a summer day at Government Canyon.

Colors of the Canyon - Read More…

Name That Tune: Birdsong Edition

Most avid birders eventually add sound identification to the tool set they use in identifying birds. But bird songs convey more information than just the identity of the singer.

Name That Tune: Birdsong Edition - Read More…

CANCELED-Birding for Beginners

Was that a kinglet, or a kingbird? Learn how you can add birding to your outdoor skills set.

CANCELED-Birding for Beginners - Read More…

Shade Tree Journaling

Slow down, find a shady spot, and deepen your experience of the natural world with mindful observations.

Shade Tree Journaling - Read More…

S'mores Storytime

Meet a Giant Walkingstick, listen to a story about its life, build a crafty critter, and make a s'more at our campfire.

S'mores Storytime - Read More…

Family Volunteer Day-Insect Survey

Help our wildlife managers monitor arthropod abundance and diversity in our grassland ecosystems.

Family Volunteer Day-Insect Survey - Read More…

Big Sit-Great Texas Birding Classic

Help our team tally bird species as we compete in the biggest, wildest birdwatching competition in the U.S.!

Big Sit-Great Texas Birding Classic - Read More…

Big Sit-Great Texas Birding Classic

Help our team tally bird species as we compete in the biggest, wildest birdwatching competition in the U.S.!

Big Sit-Great Texas Birding Classic - Read More…

Family Stroll

Start your kids out on the right foot enjoying the outdoors! Join dedicated volunteers on a FUN and easy family-friendly walk.

Family Stroll - Read More…

Intro to Hiking for Women

Want to spend more time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, but unsure how to begin? Hiking is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the outdoors and provides a great source of relaxation and physical fitness.

Intro to Hiking for Women - Read More…

Grit and Grace: Women's History Hike in memory of Kyle Cunningham

This October is Government Canyon's 20th Anniversary month. Let's kick off the celebration with a hike honoring the women whose efforts led to this land's preservation. We will be hiking this time in memory of one of Government Canyon's founding mothers, Kyle Cunningham, who passed away in May 2025.

Grit and Grace: Women's History Hike in memory of Kyle Cunningham - Read More…

CANCELED-Rockin' Through Time

Updated 5/23: The trails are likely to be closed on 5/24 due to the 2" of rain received early this morning, and the hike is canceled. We'll do it again sometime! The landscape at Government Canyon is full of clues about the ancient past, if you know how to look.

CANCELED-Rockin' Through Time - Read More…

Explore the Canyon

Join dedicated volunteers for an informative and FUN hike at Government Canyon SNA

Explore the Canyon - Read More…