If your family is anything like ours—dinosaur-obsessed and always looking for our next adventure—then Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX should be at the top of your travel list. We made a spur-of-the-moment trip while staying at a cozy RV park just south of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and it turned into one of those unforgettable evenings that we’ll be talking about for years.
A Dino-Themed Welcome in Glen Rose
As soon as we rolled into Glen Rose, the town’s dino pride was impossible to miss. Giant dinosaur statues greet you from every corner—some cleverly themed to match the businesses they stand in front of. It’s quirky, fun, and the perfect setup for the prehistoric magic that awaits in the park itself.
First Impressions: Meeting Bronc and Rex
Our excitement peaked the moment we pulled into the park and saw Bronc and Rex, the life-size dinosaur statues outside the gift shop. We’d seen them online, but standing next to them in person is a whole different thrill! The kids had a blast striking silly poses in front of the dinos, and just like that, our visit was off to an epic start.
Chasing Dinosaur Tracks in the Paluxy River
Dinosaur Valley is famous for its preserved dinosaur tracks, and they do not disappoint. We started our adventure across from the gift shop on the Horseshoe Equestrian Trail, which quickly connected us to the Paluxy River Trail. Our goal? Find the legendary “Ballroom” track site—and wow, did we!
To get a good look at the tracks, we had to wade into the river (pro tip: wear water shoes!). The rocks can be slippery, so take your time. When we finally reached the Ballroom site, we were floored by the sheer number and size of the tracks—sauropods and theropods walking in different directions like prehistoric rush hour.
Next up: the Blue Hole site. Our route took us along the river over large boulders—beautiful but a little tricky. We even came across a couple of harmless snakes, so keep your eyes peeled! The track site here is small but exciting to find. It felt like a little treasure hunt!
We later drove to the Main Track Site, which had some of the deepest and most impressive tracks of the day. The site is marked and easier to spot, and the surrounding views were stunning. We wrapped up this portion of the hike with a walk up to Limestone Ledge, where we caught a golden sunset view over the river—pure magic.
And just when we thought we were done, we spotted a huge track display at the park entrance that we’d totally missed earlier! The kids had a blast stepping inside tracks that were big enough to sit in. It was a perfect send-off to our dino-filled day.
Hiking and Outdoor Fun
The park boasts over 20 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and even horseback riding. With the sun starting to set, we only scratched the surface of what this park offers. There’s also swimming and fishing in the Paluxy River—perfect for a summer day trip or camping weekend.
We’re already planning our next visit to explore more trails and maybe catch one of the ranger-led programs.
Amenities & Educational Fun
Dinosaur Valley State Park is super family-friendly with:
Shaded picnic areas
An interpretive center
A well-stocked gift shop
And even all-terrain wheelchairs available for visitors with mobility challenges
If you time your visit right, you might even catch a Track Talk or Junior Ranger program. These are great for adding a bit of learning to your adventure!
More to Do in Glen Rose
While you’re in town, check out:
Dinosaur World – a fun walking trail with life-sized dinosaur models and a fossil dig.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center – drive through and spot giraffes, zebras, and more.
Historic Downtown Glen Rose – charming shops, cafes, and a relaxed small-town vibe.
Each offers its own unique adventure, especially for kids!
Tips for Your Visit
Visit spring through fall for the best track visibility.
Bring water shoes, bug spray, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
Check trail and river conditions before you go—especially after rain!
Reserve a day pass in advance, especially during weekends or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Our visit to Dinosaur Valley State Park was everything we hoped for and more. Walking in actual dinosaur tracks, exploring scenic trails, and catching a sunset over the Paluxy River? It doesn’t get much cooler than that.
If you’re planning your next Texas road trip, this park is a must-see. And if you’ve already been—what was your favorite trail or dino discovery? Let us know in the comments!
Be sure to check out our other Texas adventures including this visit to the Guadalupe State Park in Spring Branch, TX!
