Support Us Button Widget

How we’re celebrating 100 years of Texas State Parks

We’re getting outside to enjoy South Texas’ most beautiful outdoor spaces.

government-canyon-adventures_withchristina-1.jpg

Government Canyon is the only state park in Bexar County.

This year marks 100 years of Texas State Parks, and we want to celebrate.

Our state is full of natural beauty, and in our entirely unbiased opinion, South Texas may be the most beautiful region of all.

As nature lovers, we want to commemorate the centennial of the agency that maintains these natural resources for our enjoyment. That’s why, over the course of 2023, we’ll be visiting and writing about all nine state parks in Bexar and surrounding counties. That includes:

Before we hit the trails, let’s learn a bit more about what we’re celebrating.

  • Texas’ State Parks program was created in 1923, but it was initially conceptualized as a collection of roadside attractions for travelers. It wasn’t until Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal that the program expanded, resulting in more than 50 parks.
  • Today, Texas State Parks encompass more than 630,000 acres across 89 parks.
  • The state acknowledges that much of its parkland is located on the lands of indigenous peoples. Learn more about Native American history in Texas.
  • The only state park in Bexar County is Government Canyon State Natural Area, where you can see the only known dinosaur footprints on public land in the area.

Join in on the fun locally with San Antonio-area events throughout the year, or check out how you can prepare for your next road trip.

Or, join us on our journey. Share your state park experiences with us at hello@satxtoday.com or by tagging us on Instagram @satxtoday.

More from SATXtoday
San Antonio is currently under Stage 3 Drought Restrictions.
We’re turning back the clock thanks to the band, Earth, Wind, and Fire.
See which local 12 restaurants you can find at the Frost Bank Center this NBA season.
Explore San Antonio’s art and culture scene at our local museums + galleries.
Now brewing: Cozy San Antonio vibes.
By turning off non-essential lights from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. you can ensure local birds travel safely.
Plan your downtown routine ahead of these detours.
As San Antonio continues to grow, we’re keeping an eye on upcoming developments and recently opened businesses.
We break down the perks and sign up process for a public library card.
See which artists and performers are coming to the Jo Long Theatre this season.