Nic and I (Government Canyons State Natural Area)

A message from Nic:

May your trails be crooked, winding, lonesome, dangerous, leading to the most amazing view.

- Edward Abbey

Episode Description:

Just a short drive from San Antonio lies one of Texas’ most unique outdoor treasures—Government Canyon State Natural Area, where 12,000 acres of rugged canyons, rare habitats, and even 110-million-year-old dinosaur tracks await. In this episode of Trailblazing Texas Podcast, we sit down with Nic the parks Site Superintendent to explore what makes this place so special.

We dive into the story behind the park—from its mission to protect fragile ecosystems to the fascinating difference between a State Park and a State Natural Area. You’ll hear how the staff balances public recreation with conservation, and why certain areas remain off-limits to preserve their wild character.

Then we head deep into the park’s history and geology, uncovering the tale of the famous dinosaur tracks—how they were discovered, what species made them, and how they’re preserved for future generations. Plus, we reveal hidden geological gems and lesser-known historical sites that most visitors never see.

Of course, no trip to Government Canyon would be complete without trail talk—from family-friendly hikes and solitude-seeking backcountry routes to tips for spotting wildlife and the best season to visit. We also cover essential visitor advice, including timed entry, camping options, and Leave No Trace reminders for this sensitive landscape.

Finally, we discuss the challenges and rewards of managing a wild space so close to a major city, current conservation projects, and how the community can get involved through volunteer programs and future park initiatives. Whether you’ve visited before or have yet to set foot in Government Canyon, this episode will inspire you to see it in a whole new light.