The best camping in Government Canyon State Natural Area, TX

Name: Government Canyon State Natural Area
Address: Government Canyon State Natural Area
Rating: 4.4

88% (4)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Government Canyon State Natural Area adventure.

Top-rated campgrounds in Government Canyon State Natural Area

Frontcountry Campground

1. Frontcountry Campground

88%

(4)

Campground in Government Canyon State Natural Area · 25 sites

Soak up your time at Government Canyon’s campground -- because you won’t get to stay very long

Top-rated campsites near Government Canyon State Natural Area

Lost Woods

1. Lost Woods

94%

(1495)

4.4mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to our little piece of paradise! 55 acres of woods hidden near town. A network of trails criss-cross the creek and wind throughout the property under a peaceful canopy of large beautiful trees. Don't be surprised if you run into deer, squirrels, or roadrunners! Our property is home to a wide variety of hill-country wildlife. - Each of our campsites are private and surrounded by forest. - Each site has a fire ring for campfires - Our trees are our most precious natural resource and set this campground apart! Please don't do anything to harm them. - Port-o-john is available on site. - All of our campsites are primitive. No electric or water here. - When you camp with us you are welcome to explore and play on the entire property! We have 55 acres of trails and woods to explore! Please bring your bikes, trail shoes, or whatever helps you have fun in the wild! - Hammocks welcome! We have so many trees! All of our sites are hammock-friendly. - When you check-in, just text us, your host will help you find your campsite. - Some sites are drive-in where your vehicle can park right next to the fire. Others are walk-in and require a short hike of 100' or less from your parking space. You can indicate your preference during booking or at check-in. If you want to drive right into your site, Campsites 2, 3, 6, and 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than others and offer extreme privacy in the most beautiful settings we have to offer. If you're looking for a wilder campsite surrounded by huge old trees and all the peace the woods have to offer, just request Campsites 4, 5, 7, or 8. Each of these sites requires a walk of at least 50' from your vehicle to the fire ring. Site 13 is only for backpackers or people willing to hike about 500 yards to the campsite over rough terrain. There is no way to drive to it or even get close except on foot. But it is spectacular and beautiful! Only three sites can accommodate a smaller trailer or camper. Site 1, Site 2, and site 6. Please notify me in your booking if you intend to bring a camper and I can accommodate you. We practice leave-no-trace as much as possible. So please pack out anything you pack in. You are responsible for removing all trash. If any garbage is left behind in your site you will be billed for the cleanup. We have a dumpster located near the front gate. Please use it and put all your trash in there. Heads-up! We have a small farm on the property. Dogs are always welcome and we LOVE our furry friends! For their safety and the safety of our livestock please keep them leashed while on property.

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We Are Groot

2. We Are Groot

100%

(44)

12mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 1 site

After a lifetime of travels, we are now (since 2019) settled down in the Texas Hill Country. We started out with 5 of us in a travel trailer in the woods, and have slowly carved out the Groot’s home. Living in an area that was once subdivided to provide camp sites for people coming to enjoy Medina lake, it only seems right to make our land available for people to do just that. Enjoy. Learn more about this land: Peace, quiet, and nature are just 30 minutes from San Antonio loop 1604. You will find our back yard travel trailer and surrounding camp site tucked away in a little forest of Elm trees. Surrounded by scrub brush and with our container workshop as a privacy wall you will enjoy the feeling of having your own space as you enjoy some relaxation around a camp fire or in the hammock. The trees offer shade and draw in nature, while the surrounding Texas Hill country and nearby Medina Lake offer plenty of additional sights and opportunities to explore.

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J-D Ranch Texas

3. J-D Ranch Texas

100%

(27)

12mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 3 sites

We are about 150 acres of the beautiful Texas hill country. There are lots of natural trails throughout the property to hike. There is a wonderful creekbed that is fun to explore when it's dry and a special treat when it's wet. There is a hill with a view that goes on for miles. The Cowboy Capital of the World (Bandera, Tx) is only a short drive from our ranch.

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Al’s Hideaway: Hill Country Couples

4. Al’s Hideaway: Hill Country Couples

98%

(338)

12mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Escape to Al’s Hideaway, a peaceful Hill Country retreat designed for adults and couples seeking quiet cabins, scenic RV sites, and relaxing tent camping under the stars. Tucked away on 20 acres in Pipe Creek, our property offers a calm, nature‑rich setting where you can unwind, reconnect, and enjoy the beauty of Texas Hill Country. Stay in one of our cozy, fully furnished cabins, perfect for romantic getaways and weekend escapes. Each cabin includes comfortable beds, private bathrooms, kitchen essentials, and inviting outdoor spaces where you can sip morning coffee, watch wildlife, or enjoy a glass of wine at sunset. For RV travelers, our spacious full‑hookup sites provide privacy, shade, and easy access to all amenities. Tent campers can choose from peaceful, open‑sky spots ideal for stargazing, campfires, and quiet nights surrounded by nature. Guests love our pool, shaded pavilion, walking trails, and the laid‑back atmosphere that makes Al’s Hideaway feel like a true Hill Country sanctuary. Whether you’re relaxing by the fire, grilling dinner, exploring nearby wineries, or heading out for a scenic drive, this is the perfect basecamp for couples looking to slow down and enjoy the outdoors. Located just minutes from Bandera, Boerne, and Medina, our property offers quick access to hiking, river floats, breweries, shopping, and some of the best Hill Country views around. After a day of adventure, return to your peaceful site and enjoy the quiet, star‑filled sky that makes this area so special. If you’re looking for a romantic, adult‑friendly getaway with cabins, RV sites, and camping options, Al’s Hideaway delivers comfort, privacy, and an unforgettable Hill Country experience. Come relax, recharge, and enjoy the simple beauty of nature.

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Full hookups

Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

5. Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

98%

(627)

14mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Hi HipCampers! Spend some time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country at Boulderdash. Located along the serene Medina River, you can enjoy riverfront access and the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. Boulderdash hosts a variety of accommodations for every type of camper. Enjoy a cozy rustic three-bedroom cabin, primitive tent camping, full hookup RV sites, riverfront tent sites, and more! Play in the river,(please check lake levels) unplug, reconnect with friends and family, and enjoy the views of this beautiful country setting! Enjoy feeding the deer and watching the many varieties of birds, foxes, armadillos, squirrels and others! Our place is just 9 miles from Bandera, TX, the "Cowboy Capital of the World," where you can get a taste of the cowboy lifestyle with horseback riding, ranch tours, rodeos, museums, and more! This is one Texas destination you don't want to miss!

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Full hookups

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

6. Sparrow Bend River Retreat

95%

(1319)

14mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Sparrow Bend River Retreat is a beautiful 8 acre multi-site vacation rental property with camping, RV sites and 2 vacation homes.With a private 300yard stretch of the crystal-clear, spring fed MEDINA RIVER your party will spend the day exploring its majestic cliffs and coves, paddling/floating the river (tubes and kayaks for rent), splashing in the shallows, playing yard games on the lawn or sunbathing on a massive bolder.Enjoy a delicious and memorable dinner in Lakehills (15min), Bandera (20min) or Boerne (25min). Or stay in and grill out over the fire, or at the provided grill.Camp sites each have a customized picnic table for you convenience.Spend you evening sharing laughs around the provided firepit as you take in the dazzling canopy of stars. (Firewood available for sale)Our family has always dreamed of hosting a place for families and friends to come enjoy nature however we would have never dreamed of finding a property as unique and beautiful as this. A lake when the water is high, a beautiful river when the waters low. All crowned by a majestic limestone bluff, complete with boulders, coves and endless room for adventures.This land was once a part of a wagon trail along the river and, if you're lucky, you can still find arrowheads along the paths.The property is gated with a high privacy fence along the neighboring borders for security.

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Full hookups

Haby Ranch

7. Haby Ranch

99%

(55)

15mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 16 sites · Tents, RVs

Come enjoy over 1000 acres of a 3500 acre Texas ranch. Perfect for fossil hunting, biking, hiking, stargazing, and exploring the great outdoors. Depending on rain and current water levels, you can also enjoy creeks, swimming holes, and waterfalls. Unplug and make memories sure to last a lifetime. Located 10 miles South of Bandera, Cowboy Capital of the World.

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HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

8. HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

92%

(184)

20mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 60 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We're happily retired partners loving life in this wonderful oasis... And working hard to make it a bit better for our animals and guests, every single day. Mickey's recently retired from 21 years traveling the world with International Joint Special Forces and Vicky's a Cordon Bleu Chef who also recently retired. We are living our dream "retirement" in this gorgeous wooded Texas Hill-Country, caring for and playing with all sorts of fun animals and welcoming lovely people to our ranch/wildlife preserve/nature- resort, personally ensuring everyone has a memorable experience, from customized horseback-riding experiences (everything from trail rides, to horseback riding lessons to weddings and vows-renewals on horseback), to serving as concierge to preparing that special "made to order" fresh country breakfasts, champagne brunches and romantic or fun meals and treats like chocolate covered strawberries for any special occasion, including anniversaries and birthdays.

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Electrical hookup

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Alamo River RV Resort

9. Alamo River RV Resort

90%

(86)

20mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Alamo River RV Resort City Close, Country Quiet! Cozy RV Park and campground on the Medina River just south of San Antonio. We accommodate RV's, Motorhomes, Campers and tents. We have 4 fully appointed Deluxe cabins and 1 Rustic cabin on site. Come relax on the river! Fishing and campfires allowed.

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Full hookups

Memmie’s Farm

10. Memmie’s Farm

99%

(65)

20mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Memmie’s Farm is a special 30 acres just outside of Bandera, TX on the Medina River! We hope bring love and energy to this beautiful piece of family property by opening it up to visitors who embrace the outdoors. At the designated tent camping sites, you will find oak groves that provide opportunities for shade. The RV sites are in a picturesque field that provides excellent views of the sunset. The field leads down to incredible cypress trees lining the Medina River. We also have a primitive camping area down by the river that requires you to park in a parking area and walk to your preferred camping spot. If you are looking for solitude and untouched nature, this is the place for you. The comforts of Bandera are conveniently only a 5 minute drive away. We are located less than 2 miles from Bandera City Park! At this time, all sites are completely dry. We do have porta-potties available. RV sites are boondocking only (no water or electric at this time.) Guests may stay at Memmie’s Farm for a maximum of 6 consecutive nights. Our slice of land on the Medina River is truly gorgeous! There are beautiful cypress trees that are magical year round, and there are often small rapids. If relaxing in the shade by the river and dipping your feet in is your thing, our property is perfect for that! However, this is not a swimming hole. The Medina River is generally not considered safe in Bandera, TX, due to consistent low flow. Swim at your own risk.

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Old Herrera Ranch - Medina River

11. Old Herrera Ranch - Medina River

96%

(113)

22mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs

We're a five acre piece of an historic Texas ranch in Southwest San Antonio, just 20-minutes from downtown, sitting along the Medina River. Come for the day or stay the night for some primitive camping. We've got plenty of room for tents, roof-top-tent setups or car/van dry-camping. We’re currently in the building/restoring process, but we’ll have some electrical, drinking water, fire pits, plenty of shade, compost toilets, water in the river, and plenty of good vibes.  Old Herrera Ranch has been in our family since the early 1800's and holds a lot history. A couple of our old buildings, the "jacals", are dated from around the 1830-40's. You'll also see the old "Dance Hall" which is great for hanging out or even some cover if it rains. They say that Santa Anna's army, invading from Mexico, may have crossed through our area on their way to the Alamo. This may be because our part of the river includes some of the more shallow areas of the Medina River. For more information, feel free to take a look at our page on the San Antonio Conservation Society's website https://farmandranch.omeka.net/exhibits/show/blasherreraranch We use Hipcamp to help maintain, preserve, and restore the land my family loves so deeply. We're excited to share it with you and see what all we'll be able to do. Thank you in advance for your support! Coming soon: picnic tables, benches, outdoor cooking area, South Texas Jungle Gym, Pink Elephant Cantina (BYOB), and more!

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Full Hookup RV Pad - Bandera TX

12. Full Hookup RV Pad - Bandera TX

100%

(12)

25mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 1 site

Private full-hookup RV pad in Bandera, TX, located inside Riverwalk RV Resort in the Texas Hill Country. Ideal for short stays or monthly/long-term stays, with a quiet setting near the Medina River and an easy drive to San Antonio and Kerrville. The site features a fully cemented, flat pad that accommodates RVs up to 60 feet, including slide-outs. Full hookups include water, sewer, 30/50-amp electric, and park-wide Wi-Fi. The site is close to the main guest center and has extra space behind it for outdoor seating or hammocks. Resort Amenities Include: • Community pool • Camp store • Park-wide Wi-Fi • Indoor pickleball & wiffle ball • Outdoor bocce ball, GaGa ball & checkers • Playground & dog park • Putting green • Laundry facilities • Covered picnic areas & seating • Medina River access (seasonal conditions apply) • Golf cart, kayak & tube rentals Perfect for: Snowbirds, traveling nurses, retired or active military, remote workers, and RV travelers looking for a clean, quiet, long-term-friendly stay in the Hill Country.

Pets

Full hookups

Yanawana Camp

13. Yanawana Camp

100%

(11)

25mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 4 sites

Open year-round, Yanawana Camp is a 2.4 acre RV Park consisting of 4 back-in sites with full hook-ups (20-30-50 amp, water and sewer). Currently, NO restrooms, showers, laundry are available. Please make sure your RV is fully equipped with your amenities. We can say all we like about our Camp but the only opinion that really matters is our guests. Major attractions near Yanawana Camp: The Hike and Bike Trail along the San Antonio River Mission San Juan Capistrano Mission Espada World Heritage Site San Antonio Riverwalk Stinson Municipal Airport restaurant and helicopter rides Mitchell Lake Audubon Center Mission San Jose Mission Concepcion Palo Alto Community College The Alamo San Fernando Cathedral SeaWorld San Antonio Six Flags Fiesta Texas We hope to see you soon!

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Full hookups

Family farm, swimming hole, views

14. Family farm, swimming hole, views

99%

(61)

27mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Come stay at Bird Haus Farms! We offer a secluded RV site with stunning views on several acres, away from our four short-term rentals. While the container pool is no longer available, there's a beautiful swimming hole just a short walk from the site (waiver required). Extra swimmers are $20 each. Bird Haus Farms is centrally located in the Texas Hill Country—just 30 minutes from San Antonio, 25 minutes from New Braunfels and Boerne, and 60 minutes from Fredericksburg. A Walmart and HEB are just across the highway, with Guadalupe State Park only 15 minutes away. We're also a quick 3-minute drive from Guadalupe Canoe Livery for river tubing and kayaking! Chickens, cows, and other guests’ dogs are on the property, so please keep your pets on a leash. We also have two cats and an electric fence—exercise caution. Amenities include: 50-amp electrical hookup Water and sewage hookup Toilet and sink inside a nearby shipping container Campfires allowed (if no fire ban) Reach out with any questions—we hope to see you soon!

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Full hookups

The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

15. The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

99%

(165)

28mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 30 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

A getaway tucked deep into 44 magical acres of rolling hills. 10 minutes outside of Center Point, Texas. Tucked into the top of a beautiful valley, where hills rule supreme! While on the property spend your time enjoying the rugged trails, bird watching, dark night skies, and the quiet. Don't forget to take advantage of our communal amenities including stock tank pools, sauna and hammock grove! Currently we have 7 A-frame cabins, RV, Bell tent, RV hookup to rent as well as dispersed camping sites! If you're interested in booking the whole property for your group shoot us a message! ~We are grateful to share that our property did not sustain any damage from the Guadalupe flood. During this time, we remain committed to being a place of restoration for all~ *We ask that guests clean up after themselves in the communal spaces during their stay. Allowing all guests to have access to a clean and welcoming space!* The Charmadillo is a great base to explore the area! About an hour from Lost Maples, Garner State Park and Enchanted Rock. About 35 minutes to Hill Country State Natural Area. Various access points to the Guadalupe river via Center Point and Kerrville. With the addition of wineries, honkytonks, and charming bars and restaurants throughout the region.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Everfree Shire Ranch

16. Everfree Shire Ranch

94%

(208)

29mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 29 sites · Tents, RVs

Everfree Shire Ranch is an 11 Acre Estate and a magical oasis for travelers, wanderers, and the displaced who are seeking an economic alternative to regular campgrounds and parks. There are 5 acres of available housing options and campgrounds with a fantasy theme! The 6 acres in the back are grazing fields for horses. Perfect for star gazers / practicing camping! Groceries a few miles out. The central building has indoor lodging available and the side bathroom with indoor toilet / washer / dryer may be used by campers as well. There is an outdoor shower with heated water but please be mindful that swimwear is required because we have not finished filling in the slots between the wood fence panels. The RV Dump station is also ready for use as well as the new outhouse! If you forgot to dump on the way out or need to before arriving, please use the free dump stations on I-35 near Natalia on either side of the highway. As of 2026 my day job hours have changed. I no longer get out of work at 3, now it is 6 PM. If you are arriving same-day you should probably message me first to make certain your site is ready otherwise you might be rolling the dice a bit.

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Full hookups

Mockingbird Farms

17. Mockingbird Farms

99%

(54)

32mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Heavily wooded acreage with goats, horses and donkeys. There is no light pollution and if there are no clouds you can see the stars very clearly. We have a ton of wild birds. Owls and Cara Cara are common. There are deer, feral hog and two resident packs of coyote. We also have ring tail cats, which are nocturnal and rare. The best seasons are October 1st thru the end of April. It gets VERY hot and dry in the summer and can just be miserable. We have a shared bathroom and an outdoor shower and tub. If you are a single woman or a family with children, we don't take other bookings while you are visiting the farm. You will have the place to yourselves. The only exception being my family and I, if we are working or staying over at the farm. We should have a second bunkhouse up and running by fall of 2025. If you are tent camping, you may camp anywhere on the property but there are certain spaces that may make curious horses your roomies.

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The Juniper Ranch & Retreat

18. The Juniper Ranch & Retreat

95%

(42)

34mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 4 sites

Need a change of scenery? Come enjoy a few fun days on the lake and comfortable nights among the stars in a luxurious bell tent at The Juniper Ranch & Retreat.The Juniper is situated between Austin and San Antonio in picturesque Texas Hill Country, only minutes from beautiful Canyon Lake.We're conveniently located within 5-10 mins of several boat ramps and parks on the lake, as well as a golf course, wineries and many other attractions. In addition to the many fun activities to do on Canyon Lake, The Juniper is within 15-30 mins of numerous Guadalupe River tubing and rafting sites, Whitewater Amphitheater and Gruene Hall, Natural Bridge Caverns and Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo, and more.The Juniper is also conveniently located within 30 mins of New Braunfels, Wimberley and Gruene, and an hour of San Antonio, Austin and Fredericksburg.For more info, find us on FB and Insta: @thejuniperranchandretreat

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HipCamp@RoosterRidgeKerrvilleTexas

19. HipCamp@RoosterRidgeKerrvilleTexas

98%

(42)

36mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 18 sites · Tents, RVs

16 dry 8 wet acres on Guadalupe river. Next to Dog Park and Close to town but still secluded from public. Hunting and Fishing Guide available . Guide available for kayak tour along river. Great place to star gaze. Small field divided by wet weather creek leading into Damned portion of River. Kayaking, Bird watching, Horse shoes and washers available. Bring your own tent, small rv or camper to the beautiful hill country. Roads have been graded recently. Pitch your tent or park your small camper trailer/rv next to the Guadalupe River. Small Lake with Lily Pads and fishing.  Kayak, canoe and paddle boats on location for rent or bring your own. Running water and Electricity are not available at this time. Area is surrounded by cedar, mesquite, cypress oak and a small field. Creek bed that feeds lake. Many types of birds, butterflies and spiders to observe. Deer, fox and turkey have been seen. Grocery Store and dump station is a few miles down road. Community area near water allows access for water vessels.  Public boat ramp near by on next property.   Experienced Motor cycle Groups welcome.  Site 4 is currently under construction for a sail boat shelter. Great fishing and kayaking river access on location. Sites 1,2,3, will have a table and fire ring with flat surface.   Sites 5 and 6 are in the sticks and setting is raw land with no grooming. This is not the Ritz! This is raw land with no electricity and no running water. There are torches and solar lights at three sites. Seclusion, privacy, and peace can be found here.

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Picnic table

RockOn Ridge

20. RockOn Ridge

100%

(50)

37mi from Government Canyon State Natural Area · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

This property was often frequented by Indians dating back to the Clovis times. It also was the camping site for laborers building the Old Train Tunnel that now houses millions of Mexican Free Tailed Bats. Sitting on the edge of the valley, you can watch the beautiful Sunsets and watch the bats emerge! Learn more about this land: Camp next to a gorgeous view and watch the sunsets and the bats emerge when they are in season. There is a fire ring for when the burn ban is off. We are within a quarter mile (walking distance) to the Old Tunnel State Park and Alamo Springs Cafe bragging the best burgers in Texas. We are also three miles from famous Bankersmith and ten miles from Luckenbach. Fredericksburg town is 20 minutes and there are many wineries in the area. We also live on the property (building a house) so we can be of some help if needed. 23 miles away you have Blanco State Park. Situated along a one-mile stretch of the spring-fed Blanco River, the small but mighty Blanco State Park is very family-friendly, offering the spectacular Falls Dam, nature trails, fishing, tubing, kayaking, and deep water for a good, refreshing swim. The stocked river is teeming with largemouth and Guadalupe bass, catfish, sunfish, and rainbow trout, and can be an excellent place for beginning anglers (you can even borrow equipment for free)

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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Bandera City Park is about 15 minutes away!

Holly

5 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Al’s Hideaway: Hill Country Couples

We had the best time. The owners were more than accommodating and even gave us firewood! 10/10 would stay here again!

Michael

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

My daughters and I had a very relaxing weekend getaway at Boulderdash thanks to our thoughtful and considerate hosts! When we arrived, we were offered a different spot from the one we booked so we could have a little extra space to ourselves, and they even had farm fresh eggs and homemade sourdough available that we snatched up for the next day's breakfast. Proximity to the river was amazing and we spent a few hours on the water together, and the bathroom and shower facilities were very clean. The grounds were also in great condition, full of greenery and wild deer we could feed with some complimentary corn (both my girls were thrilled). The cherry on top was the fact that all you could hear at night was crickets, and you could see all the stars despite some clouds in the sky. It was a great experience and we look forward to staying again!

LeeLee

2 weeks ago

With pets

11 nights at We Are Groot

It was not what we were expecting at first.. however by the time we settled in it was so quiet and peaceful when were able to enjoy the campsite.. I loved the fact it was camping with the small town close enough to get supplies if needed.. we weren't bothered at anytime by the host .. when we would have a issue arise .. I would just message Ace and everything was taken care of .. without us being aware the problem was resolved .. when I tell you he makes sure it's private... It is! I would like to take my family and friends back because it's definitely a group place! It was definitely a longer count for us we did a 10-day 11 night camp! Very highly recommend this campsite.. we had a hard month starting on March 1st and just continuing into April! This helped all my family reset and I'm thankful for this! Best trip so far!

Desiree

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

The area is so pretty and easy river access! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Carol & Lyn were amazing hosts, on property for any needs or questions. And it’s close to town so we had the best of both worlds. We will camp here again SOON!

Kara

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Went for a solo trip and tent camping at site 4 was perfect. Lots of shade which is important because sun really bears down at height of day. Bring pop up or umbrellas if you want to hang right on the river. Site 4 is tucked back and there is room for a hammock. The water is maybe a little over 4 ft at deepest along the river nearest the campsites. Lots of shallow walk in areas for the littler ones. Full of beautiful native Texas plants and critters. This place is a real gem! Will be back.

Nestled along the scenic bend of the river, Sparrow Bend River Retreat offers a picturesque escape that transcends the ordinary

Harriet

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

This is my third time here at Sparrow Bend Retreat. Really love camping here - we came here with a group of friends and their kids and pets. We did campsite 1 and 3. The toilets and shower are in great condition and clean. The only consideration is the hot water. It is nice and hot but sometimes it does run out. The space is spacious and quiet. I would recommend this place in a heart beat.

Mckenna

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Memmie’s Farm

The location is extremely convenient for access to Bandera, the property is beautiful and Ellie was kind and accommodating!

Stephanie

3 weeks ago

18 ft truck camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lost Woods

I had no idea this spot of land was so accessible to a main road in Helotes. This was a quick reservation to test out our camping set up before a bigger, more primitive upcoming camping trip for us and it hit all the marks we needed. It felt very secluded but that could be because it looked like no other reservations were nearby. We did not test out any trails or walked too far off from our spot. Some spots were just too muddy but we booked this a day after a very large thunderstorm so we weren’t expecting clear paths. Cute quick camping trip with our dogs. Con: Although you see nature everywhere, you could hear how close you are to the main highway, neighborhood housing, and possibly a school. Not sure. lots of dogs barking nearby. Nothing the owners could do about that but something to consider if you are wanting complete silence and only nature sounds.

Kyleigh

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

This is my second time camping on Sarah’s property and it was just as wonderful as my last trip. The facilities are tip top and always clean and ready for use. The property is beautiful and such a wonderful place to reset and recharge. Sarah has created such a special place!

Haider

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

We had an amazing stay at the campsite! We stayed at Forest 2 site. We ended up taking our paddle board out on the river in the evening to enjoy the water. Would absolutely stay here again :)

Lynette

May 2026

20 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at Haby Ranch

Can’t wait to go back to Haby Ranch! Our host Warren and his family are the nicest people, and good stewards of their land. The land is so varied… hills, creeks, waterfront when the reservoir isn’t in drought, cliffs, aoudad, deer, cattle, wild turkeys, trails everywhere, plenty of space to be off by yourself up in the hills. Hail was threatening when we were there, and Warren let us park in his shed. He made sure we could clear the trees. Even took us in his mule around to see his ranch the next day.

Carol

April 2026

23 ft campervan

6 nights at Everfree Shire Ranch

I just love this place. Water, electric, an awesome outdoor shower. Great countryside setting but close to shopping and dining. The birds are amazing. There’s some highway noise but that’s what your earbuds are for. Michael is the best. Whatever you need just ask and he’ll do his best for you.

nallely

April 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

My husband and I had a great time staying at riverfront site #1. It’s a shaded area with a short walk to the river. Port a potty was nice and clean and a short distance to walk to. There is a steep hill so expect to walk up that to shower, it’s a fun workout. 10/10 recommend staying here though. Will definitely be back

Experience RV living at its finest with our stunning riverfront sites – where every day is a postcard-worthy moment. 🚐🌊

Omer

April 2026

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Beautiful and maintained. Everything was very clean and the hosts were most welcoming. Water was clear, fishing was fun and just nice little get away. Highly recommend and will be coming back here soon!

Kaitlin

April 2026

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lost Woods

This was my second time camping in the Lost Woods and first time with my Girl Scout troop. The teens loved seeing the farm animals and petting the goats. The other campers were considerate and turned off music at an extremely reasonable hour. If you’re looking for a super quiet experience, try to book a campsite further from Braun Road. The trails were great and we had a wonderful time! Thank you!

thomas

April 2026

Tent

2 nights at Haby Ranch

Amazing property. We had it to ourselves. Perfect hill country location with creeks, amazing views. Warren a great and helpful host.

Corey

April 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lost Woods

Great place to go camping very clean environment. Sites are very well spaced out so you have plenty of privacy a hidden gym in the city of San Antonio.

Nicci

April 2026

35 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Memmie’s Farm

Mabel 🐕 and I so enjoyed our weekend. We stayed in the Rebecca!! Excellent camper and really set up well with all the kitchen essentials and more. I was totally impressed! The river was flowing so of course we had a great time in the river. The town of Bandera is so close with several thrift stores. So Fun Thanks Elli for setting us up ❤️

Vee

April 2026

With pets

1 night at Memmie’s Farm

We spent some time at the Rebecca for my dog's birthday. He had the best time. Very peaceful and relaxing. Would highly recommend and would definitely come back!

Maddie

April 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

We love this place so much! This is our second visit and it was even better than the first. The bed is so comfy, the amenities are perfect, and the location is beautiful.

Government Canyon State Natural Area camping guide

Overview

About

Get away from it all at this 12,000-acre rugged natural area located in Bexar County about 25 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio. Government Canyon State Natural Area offers 40 miles of trails overlooking unspoiled acreage full of trees, wildlife, and even dinosaur tracks. Secluded front-country campsites, 23 backcountry tent campsites, and two group tent campsites are available on weekends, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature as you sleep under the stars.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Camping is only available at Government Canyon State Natural Area on weekends and select major holidays, such as spring break.
Advanced reservations are recommended through the Texas State Parks reservation website for all camping. Reservations can be made up to five months in advance.
Due to the limited camping spots available, Government Canyon State Natural Area frequently is fully booked to capacity.

When to go

If you’re interested in hiking through the Protected Habitat Area trails, plan to visit between September through February; the rest of the year, those trails are closed. September through November can be lovely months to camp in central Texas due to the more temperate weather. It’s also helpful to keep an eye on the forecast—preservation efforts mean that rain or other inclement weather will close down all trails in this preserve, which would be a bummer if you’d had your heart set on hiking here.

Know before you go

Campsites do not include electricity. Composting toilets are available, and potable water is available at the parking lot.
Dinosaur tracks dating back 110 million years can be seen along the Joe Johnston Route, a five-mile rugged round-trip hike.
Hikers should bring sturdy hiking shoes or boots, as the trails are sometimes ungroomed.
Pets are allowed only on the front-country trails due to the fragile ecosystem of the protected habitat area.

Reviews for Government Canyon State Natural Area Campgrounds

88%

4 ratings · 3 reviews

Mixed feelings

· November 2017

Frontcountry Campground

These are all walk-in campsites and can be a bit tedious if you have a lot of gear and your site is further away. All of them have tables but mostlybuse the trees for shelter. Be sure and check the weather because the area can tend to flash flood.

Kelsie L.

8 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· November 2017

Frontcountry Campground

We have camped here twice. Nice hiking, but if you have dogs, they are allowed only on the front country trails. There are still plenty of hiking trails to hike with your dog in the front country. Each campsite has a fire ring, camp storage box, picnic table, and has ample room. The "G" next to the numbered campsites stands for group camping, as we found out recently LOL.

Sue R.

9 years on Hipcamp

October 2015

Government Canyon is a gem within San Antonio limits, and the city is lucky to have this protected area from encroaching development. Camping is allowed on Friday and Saturday only, and tent only. Site 13 has quick access to the frontcountry Savannah Loop, but we decided to explore the backcountry, and saw not one, but two rattlesnakes! The hiking provides lots of scenery, and bring a mountain bike if you want to explore two wheels.