Located in northwestern Bexar County just outside of San Antonio, the 8,624-acre Government Canyon State Natural Area opened to the public six years ago this month. The area was purchased by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1993, in cooperation with Edwards Aquifer Authority, San Antonio Water System, the Trust for Public Land and the federal government's Land and Water Conservation Fund.
The best time to visit Government Canyon, which is part of the state's rich ranching history, is between September and February, when protected habitat areas are open to the public. All other trails are open year around, but the Protected Habitat Trails provided a visitor with a glimpse into Texas' past, when soldiers rode the trails to Fort Sam Houston.
Monthly the park puts on Haiku Hikes that allow visitors to recite their own, or hear others poetry. The sites include ancient Live Oaks rooted by the creek, draped with Spanish moss. Picnic sites are available for families and large groups.
For more information go to http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/findadest/parks/government_canyon/