The Ultimate Guide to Exploring Dinosaur Valley State Park

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Looking to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park? Then you’re in the right place!

Dinosaur Valley State Park is a Texas State Park located in Glen Rose, Texas where you can discover unique dinosaur tracks!

At over just an hour away from DFW, Dinosaur Valley State Park is the perfect weekend getaway for swimming, fishing and hiking and dino-track hunting! I’ve put together this ultimate guide to visiting Dinosaur Valley State Park.

Ever since moving to DFW, Zack and I have been exploring Texas State Parks. We’ve been to a few, so I decided to pick one to visit over our three-day weekend. And we chose to explore Dinosaur Valley State Park!

Table of Contents

How to Get to Dinosaur Valley State Park

To get to Dinosaur Valley State Park from the Dallas/Fort Worth area, head south on I-35W (from Fort Worth) or I-35E (from Dallas).

If coming from Dallas, merge onto I-35W South and continue toward Alvarado. Take US-67 South at Alvarado and follow it through Cleburne until you reach Glen Rose.

Once in Glen Rose, turn right onto FM 205 and follow it for about 4 miles until you reach Park Road 59, the entrance to Dinosaur Valley State Park.

The drive typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.

Dinosaur Valley State Park Details

Cost: Adults $8 / Children 12 and under free
Address: 1629 Park Road 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
Gate Hours: 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Why Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park

The 1,587-acre Dinosaur Valley State Park opened in 1972. Its mission is to preserve these valuable dinosaur track sites and to allow people to learn from and enjoy them.

The park is home to preserved dinosaur tracks that date back to the Cretaceous period, around 113 million years ago. Visitors can see and walk in the tracks left behind by dinosaurs such as Acrocanthosaurus and Sauroposeidon.

The park is situated along the Paluxy River, which runs through the park and offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and tubing. The river also provides a scenic backdrop for picnicking and hiking.

When planning a visit to Dinosaur Valley State Park, it’s advisable to check the park’s official website or contact the park office for up-to-date information on facilities, trail conditions, and any special events or restrictions.

Things to do in Dinosaur Valley State Park

1. See Dinosaur Tracks

The park is famous for its well-preserved dinosaur tracks from the Early Cretaceous period. These tracks can be found in the bed of the Paluxy River, with several sites marked along the trails. You can walk alongside actual dinosaur footprints left millions of years ago.

Tip: Just beware that the dinosaur tracks are in the riverbed and are not always visible. You’ll want to check their Facebook Page or Instagram for any weather updates.

2. Hiking and Biking Trails

The park has over 20 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Trails range from easy to challenging and provide scenic views of the river, limestone cliffs, and wooded areas. Popular routes include the Dinosaur Tracks Trail and Overlook Trail.

3. Swimming and Wading in the Paluxy River

The Paluxy River runs through the park and is a popular spot for swimming and wading, especially in summer. Some of the dinosaur tracks are located in the riverbed, making it a unique swimming experience.

4. Camping

The park offers campsites with water and electricity for tents or RVs, as well as primitive camping sites for a more rustic experience. Enjoy a night under the stars while surrounded by nature.

5. Fishing

The Paluxy River is open to fishing, with no license required if you’re fishing from the shore within the park. It’s a great spot to catch perch, catfish, and bass.

6. Picnicking

There are several picnic areas with tables and grills, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors while taking in the scenic views of the park.

7. Wildlife Watching

Dinosaur Valley is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and numerous bird species. Bring your binoculars for a chance to see local wildlife and spot some interesting bird species.

8. Horseback Riding

The park offers horseback riding trails for visitors who want to explore the park on horseback. You can bring your own horse or take part in guided rides from nearby outfitters.

9. Visit the Dinosaur Models

Near the park’s entrance, you’ll find life-sized dinosaur models of an Apatosaurus and a Tyrannosaurus Rex, originally created for the 1964-65 World’s Fair. These are fun photo opportunities for kids and families.

10. Attend Ranger Programs

The park hosts ranger-led programs throughout the year, including guided hikes, dinosaur track tours, and educational talks on the history and geology of the area.

Other Dinosaur Things to Do Near Dinosaur Valley State Park

Glen Rose, the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas” – Tour the square, visit Barnard’s Mill and Art Museum and the Somervell County Museum. It’s called the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas” because 113-million years ago hundreds of dinosaurs used the nearby Paluxy River.
Dinosaur World – Dinosaur World offers fun for the entire family, but especially for the youngsters that are fascinated by dinosaurs. Visitors have an opportunity to literally walk among the dinosaurs. The museum is complete animatronic dinosaurs, fossil replicas and natural fossils, a dinosaur dig for the kids, and a playground.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center – Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 entity, specializing in captive breeding programs for indigenous and exotic endangered and threatened species. You can enjoy a self-guided drive through 7.2 miles of Texas hill country and see endangered antelope and possibly feed giraffes.

Final thoughts on visiting Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is also dog-friendly – we wouldn’t visit if we couldn’t hike with our dog! You can bring your pets to almost all Texas state parks. Pets must be on leash at all times. Pets are not allowed in any state park buildings. This includes motels, cabins, screened shelters, group facilities and restrooms.

If you’re heading to Dinosaur Valley State Park, then be sure to check out some things to do in Glen Rose, Texas!

Have you visited Dinosaur Valley State Park before? Let me know your tips and tricks in the comments below!

XOXO,
Katie

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Additional Texas Things

Zack and I love easy dog-friendly weekend trips from our home in Fort Worth. We’ve been to Eisenhower State Park, which is only 1.5 hour drive.

We’ve also taken Colt to Mineral Wells State Park, which is just outside of Weatherford.

And further towards Louisiana, we’ve spent a long weekend exploring Caddo Lake State Park. Here’s a list of things to do near Caddo if you’re headed that way.

And if you’re looking for things to do inside the Metroplex, check out one of the dog swim days at numerous water parks in the summer. We love NRH20’s doggie beach bash – we’ve taken both Colt and Hank several times! Dogs not allowed, but be sure to visit Ray Roberts State Park for their beach in the summer!