Grey Forest is a small – one and a half miles long and three-fourths of a mile wide – community of approximately 500 citizens nestled in a picturesque Hill Country setting located on Scenic Loop Rd., three miles east of State Highway 16. Grey Forest has the benefit of being far enough away from big city life to be a getaway for its citizens, yet, it is only about 10 to 15 minutes away from the shopping, eating, and services that our modern world offers. Grey Forest began as a camp and real estate development in the 1920s that enticed San Antonio residents to build summer homes amid the scenic beauty of the area. Both the Helotes and Lee Creeks run through Grey Forest. Incorporated in 1962, the City of Grey Forest celebrated its 50th birthday in 2012. As its name implies, the area abounds with a forest of grey-green live oaks, meandering creeks, and many quaint stone cottages, called summer houses, dating back to the late 1800s. Its location and charm are summed up in its motto – “A Scenic Playground.” The preservation of this rich heritage is a goal of the city. Citizens of Grey Forest are active in protecting the hill country and its features within and around Grey Forest and work with several organizations to accomplish this. In keeping with this tradition, the City of Grey has developed and opened the Senator Frank L. Madla, Jr. Natural Area. This 42 acre park is designed to remain predominantly natural, serve as an Edwards Aquifer conservation area and provide a home to native plants, birds and other wildlife. It features trails and views with a pavilion and seating area that serves as a starting point and gathering place. It is open to the public for enjoyment and relaxation with a bit of hiking thrown in. The City of Grey Forest works with the Senator Frank Madla Park Conservancy in maintaining the natural area. Quiet and secluded, Grey Forest has become a haven for artists and craftsmen who take inspiration from the rugged limestone cliffs and rippling creeks that dot the area. Each year on the second Saturday of October, potters, weavers, painters, sculptors and other artisans decorate their homes and gardens then open their studios to the public for a walking tour to view their works. Scenic Loop Playground was the name of a summer camp that was established in the area prior to Grey Forest becoming a city. The City of Grey Forest purchased the Scenic Loop Playground Club (SLPC) property in the fall of 2015 and now maintains approximately 28 acres of greens spaces, trails, a natural spring fed creek area and a community center for its citizens. The City also owns Grey Forest Utilities which supplies the natural gas needs of much of the northwest area of Bexar County and extends into Kendall County. Grey Forest Utilities has been widely recognized as an outstanding municipal utility company. The city owns its own water system which is also managed by Grey Forest Utilities. Residents are served by a City Police Department and Public Works Department. Fire and Rescue services are contracted with the Emergency Services District 8.
