Located in the heart of Texas, Dinosaur Valley State Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, prehistoric history, and outdoor adventure. Situated just northwest of Glen Rose in Somervell County, this 1,524-acre park along the Paluxy River is renowned for its well-preserved dinosaur footprints, making it a must-visit destination for families, hikers, campers, and history enthusiasts. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Dinosaur Valley State Park, including its trails, camping options, tickets, nearby hotels, and more.
Ultimate Guide to Dinosaur Valley State Park: A Prehistoric Adventure in Texas
Where is Dinosaur Valley State Park?
Dinosaur Valley State Park is located at 1629 Park Rd 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043, approximately an hour’s drive southwest of Fort Worth and two hours from Austin. The park is easily accessible from major highways:
- From Fort Worth: Take Hwy 377 South to Granbury, then Hwy 144 South to Hwy 67. Go west on Hwy 67 to Glen Rose, then take FM 205 north for 4 miles to Park Road 59. The park headquarters is 1 mile ahead.
- From Waco: Take Hwy 6 to Meridian, then Hwy 144 to Glen Rose. Follow FM 205 north for 4 miles to Park Road 59.
The park’s proximity to Glen Rose, known as the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas,” makes it a perfect weekend getaway for those seeking a blend of outdoor activities and paleontological wonders.
Things to Do at Dinosaur Valley State Park
Explore Dinosaur Footprints
The park’s main attraction is its fossilized dinosaur tracks, dating back 113 million years to the Early Cretaceous Period. These tracks, found in the bed of the Paluxy River, were left by sauropods (large, long-necked herbivores) and theropods (carnivorous, three-toed dinosaurs). Key track sites include:
- Main Track Site: Home to the first sauropod trackway discovered, accessible via a short hike.
- Blue Hole: A deep sinkhole where theropod tracks cover the surrounding limestone shelves, ideal for swimming and track viewing.
- Ballroom Track Site: Features multiple tracks, best viewed by wading into the river when water levels are low.
Tip: Tracks are most visible during dry summer months when the river recedes. Check the park’s website or social media for track visibility updates, as high water levels can obscure them. Wear water shoes for better grip on slippery rocks.
Hiking and Biking Trails
Dinosaur Valley State Park boasts over 20 miles of trails suitable for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Trails range from easy to moderate, offering scenic views of the Paluxy River, limestone ledges, and wooded areas. Popular trails include:
- Overlook Trail (0.5 miles): An easy-to-moderate hike with panoramic views of the Paluxy River Valley.
- Cedar Brake Outer Loop (7.5 miles): A longer trail along the park’s perimeter, featuring limestone ledges and rolling hills.
- Black-Capped Vireo Trail via Limestone LLOGOTYPE (4.1 miles): A moderate trail with river crossings and opportunities to spot the endangered black-capped vireo.
Download the free Dinosaur Valley State Park app for GPS-enabled trail maps. Trails may close due to wet conditions, so check the park’s Facebook page for updates.
Water Recreation
The Paluxy River offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. The Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot, with clear waters and nearby dinosaur tracks. Fishing for catfish and other species is permitted with a Texas fishing license. For a relaxing afternoon, try the day-use area near the playground, where steps lead to a riverbank opening.
Horseback Riding
Bring your own horse to explore the 100-acre South Primitive Area, or book a guided ride with Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company (817-382-9855). Options include horseback rides, horse-drawn wagon rides, and wrangler-assisted trails for kids ages 3–14.
Wildlife and Bird Watching
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, the endangered golden-cheeked warbler, and the Texas horned lizard. Birders can spot black-capped vireos and other species along the trails. The park is part of the Great Texas Wildlife Trails, making it a prime spot for nature enthusiasts.
Other Activities
Visit the interpretive center for exhibits on the park’s geology and dinosaurs, or shop at the park store for souvenirs, camping supplies, and books. Geocaching is popular, with several caches hidden throughout the park. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges through ranger-led programs, which also include stargazing and wildlife talks.
Camping at Dinosaur Valley State Park
Campground Options
The park offers 61 campsites, catering to various camping styles:
- Developed Campground (44 sites): Features water and electric hookups (30/50 amp), paved parking, fire rings, picnic tables, and lantern posts. Sites are close together, sharing one set of restrooms with showers. Maximum trailer length is 35 feet due to winding roads.
- South Primitive Camping Area (8 sites): Walk-in sites (1/3–1/2 mile from parking), with fire rings and lantern posts. No water or restrooms; the closest potable water is 1/3–1/2 mile away.
- North Primitive Camping Area: Hike-in sites (1–2.5 miles), requiring a river crossing. No facilities; water is available at the trailhead. Ideal for a backcountry experience.
- Group Campsites: Two sites for 20 or 40 people, available for reservation up to 12 months in advance.
Cost: Developed sites range from $18–$70 per night, depending on amenities. Primitive sites are cheaper but require more preparation.
Camping Tips
- Reserve campsites up to 5 months in advance via Texas State Parks, as the park often reaches capacity, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Arrive before dark for primitive sites, especially if unfamiliar with the area.
- Check river conditions for hike-in sites, as high water levels may make them inaccessible.
- Restrooms and showers are clean and well-maintained, with modern fixtures in the developed campground.
Camping Near Dinosaur Valley State Park
For those seeking alternatives, nearby options include:
- Dinosaur Valley RV Park: Located on the Paluxy River, offering RV sites, cabins, a pool, and family-friendly amenities (817-897-2321).
- Oakdale Park: Just south of Glen Rose, with RV and tent sites, cabins, and a pool.
- High Hope Ranch: A working farm with primitive tent sites, RV spots, and animal interactions, 15 miles from the park.
Tickets and Fees
Day Use Fee: $8 per person aged 13 and older; free for children 12 and under. A Texas State Park Pass offers unlimited entry to all state parks for $70 annually.
Camping Fees: Vary by site type (see camping section).
Reservations: Highly recommended for both day use and camping, especially during peak seasons (spring, summer, and holidays). Book online at texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com or call (254) 897-4588.
Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. No re-entry after 10:00 PM.
Dinosaur Valley State Park Map
Maps are available at the park headquarters and self-pay stations. The park’s app provides digital maps with GPS coordinates for track sites and trails. Key areas include:
- Park Headquarters: Near the entrance, with the interpretive center and park store.
- Developed Campground: Central, near restrooms and showers.
- Blue Hole and Main Track Site: Along the Paluxy River, accessible via short trails.
- Overlook: Reached via the Overlook Trail, offering panoramic views.
Human Footprints Controversy
In the past, some tracks in the Paluxy River were claimed to be human footprints alongside dinosaur tracks, suggesting human-dinosaur coexistence. However, geologists in the 1980s determined these were either metatarsal dinosaur tracks or hoaxes carved during the Great Depression to sell as fossils. The Creation Evidence Museum near the park promotes this discredited theory, but mainstream science confirms the tracks are dinosaurian, with no evidence of human prints.
Hotels and Cabins Near Dinosaur Valley State Park
Hotels Near Dinosaur Valley State Park
Glen Rose offers several motels within 15 minutes of the park, including:
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Glen Rose: Modern amenities, 5 miles from the park.
- Best Western Dinosaur Valley Inn & Suites: Family-friendly with a pool, 4 miles away.
- Comfort Inn & Suites: Affordable, 6 miles from the park.
Cabins Near Dinosaur Valley State Park
The park itself does not offer cabins, but nearby options include:
- Dinosaur Valley RV Park: Fully furnished cabins with river access.
- Oakdale Park: Cozy cabins with modern amenities.
- Sandy Bottoms River Company: Cabins and vacation homes along the river, 10 miles from the park.
Blue Hole and Waterfall at Dinosaur Valley State Park
The Blue Hole is a highlight, offering a deep, clear swimming area surrounded by theropod tracks. It’s accessible via a path near the western camping area or by walking upstream from the Main Track Site. Note that there is no significant waterfall in the park, though the Paluxy River features gentle rapids and scenic pools that some visitors refer to as “waterfalls.” Always follow swimming safety tips, as river conditions can vary.
Reviews of Dinosaur Valley State Park
Visitors consistently praise the park for its unique dinosaur tracks, clean facilities, and family-friendly activities. Highlights from reviews include:
- “The dinosaur footprints are spectacular and easily accessible. The trails are great for kids, and the Blue Hole is perfect for a summer dip.”
- “Camping here was a blast. The bathrooms are some of the best in Texas state parks, and the staff is super helpful.”
- “The hiking trails offer a mix of easy and challenging options, with beautiful river views. Bring water shoes for the tracks!”
Some note that campsites can feel cramped, and cell service is spotty, especially in the primitive areas. Overall, the park earns high marks for its educational value and outdoor offerings.
Photos of Dinosaur Valley State Park
The park is a photographer’s paradise, with opportunities to capture:
- Dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River, especially at sunrise or sunset.
- The iconic fiberglass dinosaur models (a Brontosaurus and T-Rex) from the 1964 New York World’s Fair, located near the entrance.
- Scenic views from the Overlook Trail, showcasing the river valley and limestone cliffs.
- Wildlife, including deer and rare birds, along the trails.
Share your photos on social media with #DinosaurValley for a chance to be featured on the park’s pages.
Plan Your Visit
Tips for Visitors
- Book Early: Reservations for camping and day use are essential, especially during spring break and summer.
- Check Conditions: Call (254) 897-4588 or visit the park’s social media for updates on track visibility and trail status.
- Pack Smart: Bring water shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and plenty of water for hiking and river exploration.
- Arrive Early: The park can reach capacity on weekends and holidays, so arrive by 8:00 AM to secure a spot.
- Explore Glen Rose: Visit nearby attractions like Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Dinosaur World, or the Somervell County Museum.
Weather Considerations
Winter (December–February) is dry, with highs in the 50s–60s°F and lows near freezing, ideal for track visibility. Spring (March–May) brings mild temperatures (70s–80s°F) but occasional rain. Summer (June–August) is hot (90s°F), with low river levels for track viewing. Fall (September–November) offers pleasant weather (60s–80s°F) and vibrant foliage.
Conclusion
Dinosaur Valley State Park is a one-of-a-kind destination that combines prehistoric wonders with modern outdoor recreation. Whether you’re wading in the Paluxy River to see dinosaur tracks, hiking scenic trails, or camping under the stars, the park offers something for everyone. Plan your visit today to step back in time and create unforgettable memories in the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas.”
