Dinosaur Valley State Park
Glen Rose, TX
Want to indulge in a little outdoor fun without having to worry about the dangers of wild animals? Then Dinosaur Valley State Park is certainly the place for you! Unlike most amusement parks which have been designed with modern comforts and facilities in mind, this state park offers a more rustic experience that harkens back to a bygone era. Nevertheless, it still provides plenty of opportunities for visitors to enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, and even horseback riding.
To give you a better idea of what to expect when you visit, here is a detailed guide that will take you through everything you need to know about Dinosaur Valley State Park!
History of Dinosaur Valley State Park
This park was established in 1972, and it encompasses a whopping 1,524 acres along the Paluxy River. It also features approximately 15 miles of hiking trails that visitors can explore in order to get a glimpse of the park’s many natural wonders.
In addition, this state park is home to some well-preserved dinosaur footprints that have been designated as National Historic Landmarks. This makes this park one of only four sites in Texas that have received such distinctions—and it’s a pretty amazing one at that!
Best Attractions at Dinosaur Valley State Park
To give you a much better idea of what you have to look forward to at this park, here is a closer look at some of the most notable things that you’ll find there.
1) Hiking Trails
As mentioned before, the park boasts 15 miles of hiking trails for visitors to enjoy. These trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous, so there’s something for everyone! The harder hikes will definitely reward you with some amazing views, though—just be sure to come prepared with plenty of water and snacks.
2) Dinosaur Tracks
Of course, one of the main reasons people visit this state park is to see the dinosaur tracks! These fossilized footprints date back around 113 million years ago and give us a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric times.
If you want to get up close and personal with these incredible ancient creatures, then this is definitely the place for you.
3) Stunning Scenery
In addition to the dinosaur tracks, another highlight of this state park is its gorgeous scenery. The hiking trails will take you through a variety of different landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and open meadows. You’ll also have the opportunity to see some stunning rock formations.
4) Single Kayaks
One of the best ways to explore the park is by kayak, and rental companies are available on-site. If you don’t have any experience paddling, no worries – there are plenty of calm waters where you can practice before venturing out into rougher areas.
5) Free Fishing
Another great activity available in the park is fishing. No license is required, so this is a perfect opportunity to try your hand at this popular pastime.
After you’ve enjoyed all the sights and activities that the park has to offer, be sure to swing by the visitor center before heading home. Here you can learn more about the geology and history of Dinosaur State Park, as well as pick up souvenirs for your friends and family.
Dinosaur Valley State Park – Click here for dates, hours & directions
