Dinosaur Valley State Park
🏆 Walk Where Dinosaurs Walked — 113 Million Years Ago — Updated for 2026 with track visibility conditions, entry fees, and trail status
You’re standing in the Paluxy River, water lapping around your ankles, when you look down and realize your foot fits entirely inside a single dinosaur track. The three-toed print — pressed into limestone by a two-ton Acrocanthosaurus 113 million years ago — is so perfectly preserved you can see the claw marks. Twenty feet away, a series of dinner-plate-sized depressions march across the riverbed: the footprints of a Sauroposeidon, a long-necked plant eater that stood 60 feet tall and weighed 44 tons. The tracks are real. They’re right under your feet. And in that moment, the Cretaceous Period stops being an abstract concept and becomes something you can touch.
Welcome to Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas — the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas” and one of the most important dinosaur track sites in the world. This 1,587-acre park protects multiple trackways in the bed of the Paluxy River, where visitors can walk among, wade through, and literally stand inside real dinosaur footprints that have survived 113 million years of geological history. It’s equal parts science museum, swimming hole, and outdoor adventure — and unlike any other state park in America.
👣 Track Visibility is Water-Dependent!
Dinosaur tracks are visible when the Paluxy River is low — typically late summer through early fall. After heavy rain, the river rises and covers the tracks. Always check the park’s Facebook page or Instagram for current conditions before visiting. River level can change daily.
What Makes Dinosaur Valley Unique
Real Dinosaur Tracks
113-million-year-old sauropod and theropod footprints preserved in the Paluxy River bed.
Swimming in Prehistory
Swim in the same river that runs over dinosaur tracks — the Blue Hole is a legendary Texas swimming spot.
20+ Miles of Trails
Hiking and mountain biking through limestone hills, river crossings, and Hill Country forest.
Life-Size Dino Models
Two fiberglass dinosaurs from the 1964 World’s Fair — a T. rex and a Brontosaurus — greet visitors.
The Dinosaur Track Sites
Dinosaur Valley protects several track sites along the Paluxy River, each revealing different species and trackway patterns. Two types of dinosaurs left their marks here 113 million years ago during the Early Cretaceous Period:
| Dinosaur | Track Type | Size | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🦕 Sauroposeidon proteles | Large, round prints | Up to 3 ft across | Massive long-necked herbivore, ~60 ft tall, ~44 tons. Left huge circular depressions in the riverbed |
| 🦖 Acrocanthosaurus atokensis | Three-toed prints | ~2 ft long | Large carnivore, ~38 ft long, ~3 tons. Sharp three-toed tracks with visible claw marks |
Key Track Sites
| Site | Access | What You’ll See |
|---|---|---|
| 📍 Main Track Site | Easy — paved path from large parking lot, stone bridge | First sauropod trackway ever discovered (by Roland T. Bird, 1930s). Both sauropod and theropod tracks. Most accessible site |
| 📍 Blue Hole | Easy — short walk from parking | Theropod tracks visible under shallow water. Also the park’s most popular swimming hole |
| 📍 Ballroom Site | Moderate — may require wading | “Ballroom” of tracks going in all directions, as if dinosaurs were dancing. Often partially submerged |
| 📍 Denio Site | Moderate — often remains dry | Long sequence of sauropod tracks plus well-preserved theropod prints. Best for dry viewing |
🦕 Track Viewing Pro Tips
- Best visibility: Late summer through early fall when the Paluxy is at its lowest. Check park social media for daily updates
- Wear water shoes: You’ll be wading in the river to see most tracks. Rocks are slippery with algae
- Look for wet tracks: Even when water covers the prints, pouring water on the surrounding dry rock reveals track outlines beautifully
- Sunrise photography: Low-angle morning light creates dramatic shadows inside the track depressions — best for photos
- Ask the rangers: Park staff know exactly which tracks are visible on any given day and can point you to the best spots
Swimming at Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is one of the most unique swimming experiences in Texas — a deep, cool pool in the Paluxy River where you can literally swim above dinosaur tracks. The clear water, shaded by overhanging trees and bordered by limestone ledges, makes it a classic Hill Country swimming hole. During low water, theropod tracks are visible under just a few inches of water as you wade out to the deeper sections.
Swimming is available year-round but best from May through September. No lifeguards on duty — swim at your own risk. Water shoes are essential (slippery rocks). The park also offers kayak rentals for paddling the river during appropriate water levels.
Hiking & Mountain Biking
Beyond the dinosaur tracks, the park offers over 20 miles of trails through limestone hills, creek crossings, and Texas Hill Country forest:
| Trail | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🦕 Paluxy River Track Trail | 0.5 mi | Easy | Connects the main track sites along the river. The essential dinosaur walking tour |
| 🌿 Limestone Ledge Trail | 2.5 mi loop | Moderate | River overlooks, limestone formations, Hill Country views |
| 🏔️ South Loop Trail | 6.2 mi loop | Moderate-Difficult | Mountain biking and hiking, creek crossings, remote sections |
| 🚵 North Loop Trail | 5.5 mi loop | Moderate | Mixed-use (bikes allowed), river views, shade through oak forest |
| 🐴 Equestrian Trail | 7.0 mi | Moderate | Horseback riding (BYO horse), separate from hiker trails |
Photography Guide
📸 Best Photo Spots & Tips
• Dinosaur tracks (early morning): Low-angle sunrise light creates dramatic shadows inside the track depressions, making them pop. Wet the rock around dry tracks for contrast. Place a human hand or shoe inside a track for scale.
• Blue Hole (midday): The overhead sun illuminates the underwater tracks beautifully. Use a waterproof camera or polarizing filter to cut through surface reflections.
• World’s Fair dinosaur models: The fiberglass T. rex and Brontosaurus near the entrance are fun photo ops, especially with kids “running” from the T. rex.
• River overlooks (golden hour): The Limestone Ledge Trail offers elevated views of the Paluxy River valley — beautiful at sunset with warm Hill Country light.
When to Visit: Seasonal Guide
| Season | Months | Weather | Tracks? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🍂 Late Summer/Fall | Aug–Nov | 70-95°F | ✅ Best visibility | 🏆 Best track conditions (low river), swimming, comfortable hiking |
| 🌸 Spring | Mar–May | 65-85°F | ⚠️ Variable | Wildflowers, pleasant hiking temps, some tracks visible depending on rain |
| ☀️ Summer | Jun–Jul | 90-105°F | ⚠️ Variable | Swimming at Blue Hole, potential track visibility if no storms |
| ❄️ Winter | Dec–Feb | 40-65°F | ✅ Often good | Hiking, tracks often visible (dry season), fewer crowds |
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Entry Fee | $8/person (13+), children 12 & under FREE. TX Parks Pass ($70/year) covers entry |
| ⏰ Park Hours | 8 AM – 5 PM (winter) / 8 AM – 10 PM (summer, extended gate hours) |
| 🏕️ Camping | Water/electric sites, walk-in tent sites, primitive backpack camping. $15-30/night |
| 🐕 Pets | Leashed on trails, not in buildings or swim areas |
| 🎣 Fishing | From shore within the park — no license required. Catch and release encouraged |
| 📱 Cell Service | Limited within the park — download maps before arriving |
Budget Calculator
| Expense | Day Trip | Camping Weekend | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Entry | $8/person | $8/person | Free 12 and under. TX Parks Pass $70/year |
| Camping (2 nights) | — | $30-60 | Tent to electric hookup |
| Gas (from DFW) | $20-30 | $20-30 | 90 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth |
| Food | $15-30 | $50-80 | Pack lunch or eat in Glen Rose |
| Total (family of 4) | $50-$75 | $110-$200 | One of the best educational values in Texas |
Safety
| Hazard | Risk Level | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| 🌊 Flash Floods | CRITICAL (after rain) | The Paluxy River can rise dramatically and rapidly after storms. NEVER wade or swim during or after heavy rain. Flash floods are the #1 danger |
| 🩴 Slippery Rocks | High | River rocks are covered in algae and extremely slippery. Water shoes with good grip are essential. Falls are the most common injury |
| ☀️ Heat | High (summer) | Triple-digit temps in July-August. Hydrate constantly, wear sunscreen, take shade breaks |
| 🐍 Snakes | Low | Copperheads and water moccasins are present. Watch where you step near the river. Give any snake a wide berth |
Getting There
- 📍 Address: 1629 Park Road 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
- 📍 From Dallas/Fort Worth: 90 minutes southwest via US-67 through Cleburne
- 📍 From Austin: 2.5 hours northeast via TX-6 and US-67
- 📍 From San Antonio: 3.5 hours north via I-35 and US-67
Nearby Attractions
- 🦁 Fossil Rim Wildlife Center: 5 miles south. Drive-through safari with giraffes, cheetahs, rhinos, and more — one of the best in the US
- 🦖 Dinosaur World: 3 miles east in Glen Rose. More life-size dinosaur models, fossil digs, and a museum
- 🏛️ Glen Rose Historic Town Square: Charming small-town shops, restaurants, and the courthouse
- 🌊 Paluxy River Walk: Scenic walking along the river outside the park boundaries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you really see dinosaur tracks?
Yes — these are real, 113-million-year-old dinosaur footprints preserved in the limestone bed of the Paluxy River. You can touch them, stand in them, and photograph them up close. They are not replicas or casts — they are the original impressions left by living dinosaurs during the Cretaceous Period.
When are the tracks most visible?
When the Paluxy River is at its lowest level — typically late summer through early fall and during winter dry spells. After rain, the river rises and covers the tracks. Check the park’s Facebook page or Instagram for daily track visibility updates before visiting.
Is Dinosaur Valley good for kids?
Absolutely — it’s one of the best educational state parks in the country for children. Kids can walk in real dinosaur footprints, swim in the river, see life-size dinosaur models from the 1964 World’s Fair, and attend ranger-led programs about paleontology. It turns abstract science into a hands-on experience.
Can I swim at Dinosaur Valley?
Yes. Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot in the Paluxy River, with clear cool water and some tracks visible underwater. Swimming is at your own risk — no lifeguards. Best from May through September. Water shoes are essential for the slippery riverbed.
How long should I plan to visit?
Half a day minimum to see all major track sites. A full day allows time for hiking, swimming at Blue Hole, and exploring the World’s Fair dinosaur models. Weekend camping gives you time to explore the 20+ miles of trails and catch different river conditions.
What kind of dinosaurs made the tracks?
Two main species: Sauroposeidon proteles — a massive long-necked plant eater (60 ft tall, 44 tons) that left huge round depressions — and Acrocanthosaurus atokensis — a large carnivore (38 ft long, 3 tons) that left distinctive three-toed tracks with visible claw marks.
Do I need water shoes?
Yes, absolutely. The river rocks are extremely slippery with algae. Regular shoes get waterlogged and ruined. Flip-flops offer no grip. Water shoes with rubber soles are essential for safely navigating the riverbed to see the tracks.
How much does it cost?
$8/person (ages 13+), children 12 and under are free. A Texas State Parks Pass ($70/year) provides free entry. For a family of four, it’s one of the most affordable educational experiences in Texas.
Can I go mountain biking?
Yes — the park has over 20 miles of trails, many open to mountain biking. The North and South Loop Trails offer mixed-use paths through varied Hill Country terrain with creek crossings and scenic views.
What else is nearby?
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (5 miles south) is a must — it’s a drive-through safari with giraffes, cheetahs, and rhinos. Dinosaur World in Glen Rose has more dino models and fossil digs. The town of Glen Rose itself has a charming historic square with shops and restaurants.
🦕 Walk Where Giants Walked
There are few places on Earth where you can stand inside a real dinosaur footprint. Where you can trace the claw marks of a predator that stalked this riverbed 113 million years before you. Where you can swim in a pool that’s been here since the Cretaceous Period. Dinosaur Valley State Park is that place — a living paleontology museum right in the Texas Hill Country, just 90 minutes from Dallas. Bring water shoes. Watch where you step. And try to wrap your mind around 113 million years.
📍 Address: 1629 Park Road 59, Glen Rose, TX 76043
📞 Phone: (254) 897-4588
