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Frontcountry Campground

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

The sites in the frontcountry campground can only be reserved for Friday and Saturday nights; occasionally, additional camping nights are opened up on holidays. The 23 walk-in tent sites are about 20 to 60 yards from the parking lot and come with picnic tables and fire rings. Running water and primitive toilets are nearby. The sensitive natural area stresses the “leave no trace behind” mantra, so pack up everything when you head out -- including all the candy wrappers from your late-night s’mores binge. The two group sites are about 20 to 60 yards from the parking lot and come tricked out with picnic tables, fire rings, and nearby running water and composting toilets. Each group site can accommodate 16 of your closest friends -- as long as they can all pick up after themselves.

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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Government Canyon State Natural Area

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(1345)

More to explore nearby

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4 ratings · 2 reviews

Kelsie L.

November 24, 2017

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.

Sue R.recommends

November 7, 2017

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.

Your guide to camping in Frontcountry Campground

Overview

Biking

Over 40 miles of trails cross through the grasslands of Government Canyon. The paths are well-maintained, perfect for mountain bikers looking for something a little more relaxed, or casual cyclists in search of off-road adventures. Ten trails are open to bikes. Take the Joe Johnston Route for a tour past the Wildcat Canyon Ranch and up to Canyon Overlook, where you’ll find 110 million-year-old dinosaur tracks. This trail map will you guide you on your way through Government Canyon’s impressive network of trails.

Hiking

Hiking at Government Canyon is not recommended for the indecisive. There are so many options to choose from! Over fifteen trails zigzag across Government Canyon’s rolling hills. Whether it’s rare wildlife, historic homes, dinosaur tracks or scenic views that you’re after, you’ll find it here. Check out the Far Reaches Trail for the Chula Vista and Sotol Overlooks, or stay close to home to see the lush native grass of the Savannah. Trails range from easy to challenging. Watch out for bikes, too. With the exception of the northern protected habitat area, most trails are open to hikers and bikers alike.

Wildlife watching

The endangered golden-cheeked warbler is a native to these parts, but that’s not the only wildlife you’ll find here. Beautiful trees such as the mountain laurel, mesquite, and ashe juniper fill the scenery, and diverse bird life makes Government Canyon a favorite spot among birders. Although the dinosaurs have been gone for 110 million years, their tracks are still worth the visit!