Dinosaur Valley State Park

Open — Open year-round. Park gates open 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Trails are currently open and tracks are visible. Trails may close due to wet conditions or weather. Prescribed burns are planned October through April depending on conditions.

About

Dinosaur Valley State Park offers a unique window into prehistoric Texas where dinosaur footprints remain preserved in the limestone bed of the Paluxy River. The park's most distinctive feature is the abundance of well-preserved dinosaur tracks that visitors can walk among, providing an extraordinary connection to the age when these massive creatures roamed the landscape. Located just a short drive from Fort Worth near Glen Rose, the Dinosaur Capital of Texas, the park encompasses diverse terrain along the Paluxy River. The park features an extensive trail system with 20 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian trails winding through wooded areas and along the river. The South Primitive Area offers 100 acres for horseback riding where horses can access the river. River activities include swimming, fishing, and paddling, though track visibility and river access vary with water levels. An interpretive center provides educational exhibits about the park's paleontological significance. Camping options range from 36 developed sites with water and electric hookups to walk-in primitive sites and backcountry hike-in sites requiring river crossings. The park operates two group camps accommodating 20 and 40 people. Rangers lead programs on dinosaur tracks, stargazing, and wildlife, plus offer workshops in archery, fishing, and geocaching. With its combination of paleontological wonders, diverse recreation, and proximity to area attractions like Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Dinosaur Valley provides an engaging destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Directions

From Glen Rose, Texas, take FM 205 to Park Road 59 and follow signs to the park entrance.

Nearby Campgrounds