Earlier this month I visited Dinosaur Valley State Park located in Glen Rose, TX, about four and a half hours away from UHCL. This park is home to multiple impressively well-preserved dinosaur footprints, over 1,500-acres of nature, and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

Dinosaur Tracks

The park now has five viewable track sites, each with individually named areas where you can see the pre-historic dino marks left behind.

It’s estimated that the dinosaur tracks were originally formed approximately 113 million years ago in the early Cretaceous period. The Paluxy River has been eroding the prints since they were first exposed in 1908.

The park recommends guests to plan their visit in the late summer, as the water levels would be at their lowest and tracks are more visible. But, of course, the park is a wonderful place to visit regardless!

Out of all the dinosaur tracks, my favorite would have to be “The Ballroom” site. There’s a small ledge where visitors can view the “dancing feet” of the dinosaurs from above.

Dinosaurs in Motion

Located next to the gift shop, the Tyrannosaurus Rex (45ft tall) and Brontosaurus (a whopping 70ft long) greet guests into the park. Visitors commonly pose with the dinosaurs, and of course I did as well!

Created by sculptor Louis Paul Jonas and sponsored by Sinclair Oil Corporation, nine dinosaurs were originally showcased in the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair exhibit. Following the success of the art display, the dinosaurs went on a national tour.

Afterwards, Sinclair Oil donated two of the sculptures to Dinosaur Valley around 1970. The remaining sculptures were likewise donated to other locations throughout the country.

The dinosaurs also have animatronic parts and were able to move, but unfortunately (or fortunately) are no longer functional.

Hiking and Camping

Dinosaur Valley State Park has over 20 miles of hiking trails, with gravel paths and plenty of signs to lead visitors. Trails are covered with plenty of shade and scenic viewpoints.

Fair warning, there are areas where elevation can be an issue for some. While it can be a workout for those on foot, it can be thrilling for bike riders!

In my visit, I nearly lost my balance on a slippery rock crossing the Paluxy River on the way to my overnight stay in their “primitive” campsite, the Acro Ridge Backpacking Area. The forest was buzzingly loud after sunset, and soon after we got there I fell asleep underneath a sky full of stars.

While it might not be for everyone, it was a fun and incredibly rewarding experience for me.

Regardless of where you are, always be aware of your surroundings. Wildlife, such as coyotes, water snakes, and other critters roam the forest and trails. Maybe dinosaurs too.

Swimming

With the Texas heat getting stronger in the summer months, Dinosaur Valley allows visitors to swim anywhere in the Paluxy River unless stated otherwise or roped off.

One popular cooling spot, the Blue Hole, has a small site of Theropod tracks, clear waters, and is up to 20ft deep. Some areas in the park offer life vests as well. Make sure to bring your swimwear!

Current Controversy

As of publication, there is an ongoing dispute over a power company’s proposal to install new power lines in the area.

Oncor Electric Delivery Company’s proposed 765Kv transmissions lines (DINOSAUR – LONGSHORE) project and has been met with backlash by many due to the potential damages. The environment, local economy, and property values could all be negatively impacted by proposed routes.

In addition, Sailfish Investors propose building Comanche Circle, a 2,600-acre data center. Opponents claim that this could negatively alter the water flow of the Paluxy River, as the data center is planned to be about 4 miles north of Dinosaur Valley.

Numerous signs are set up around the city of Glen Rose by The Dinosaur Valley – Paluxy River Protection Alliance. “Don’t thread on my tracks” is boldly stated on the signs. The alliance opposes the projects, and works to protect their community from drought, air pollution, and economic struggle.

Surrounding counties are facing similar circumstances, as there are numerous industrial data center developments planned.

Closing Words

Dinosaur Valley State Park certainly lives up to the claim of being the most unique Texas state park. When coming into the city of Glen Rose, many businesses showcase their own dinosaurs and proudly declare themselves the “Dinosaur Capital of Texas”. So far, this state park is my favorite to visit and worth the drive every time.

As a state park, it’s partially tax-payer funded to facilitate their mission to conserve and protect wildlife and the natural scenery surrounding it. This allows them to set the price of general admission tickets at only $7! 

Because nearly all visitors will spend most of their time outside, and we do live in Texas, I recommend that anyone planning on visiting should, at minimum, bring plenty of water, energy gels, electrolytes, comfortable shoes, and breathable clothing.

For more information, you can visit the Dinosaur Valley State Park website.