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Texas
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Texas State Parks

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USA Parks
Texas
Prairies & Lakes Region
Dinosaur Valley State Park
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Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
Dinosaur Valley State Park © Karyl K Holloway
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DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK
DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK
1629 Park Road 59
Glen Rose, Texas   76043
(lat:32.2469 lon:-97.8136) map location

Phone: 254-897-4588
Reservations: 512-389-8900
Dinosaur Valley State Park, located just northwest of Glen Rose in Somervell County, is a 1524.72-acre, scenic park set astride the Paluxy River. The land for the park was acquired from private owners under the State Parks Bonds Program during 1968 and opened to the public in 1972.

Eastward-dipping limestones, sandstones, and mudstones, deposited from approximately 113 million years ago along the shorelines of an ancient sea, form the geological setting for the park area. Over the last million years or so, these layered formations have been dissected and sculpted by the Paluxy River which, in many places, has cut down to resistant beds and planed off sizable exposures of rock in the river bottom.
Nature of the Area
The Paluxy River runs through the area, and the terrain is wooded, hilly, and semi-rocky. Plants in the Paluxy River drainage are characteristic of the Cross Timbers and Prairie vegetational areas. The uplands show similarities with the plants of the Edwards Plateau to the south and west, supporting Ashe juniper, live oak, Texas red oak, and Texas ash, with some post oak and mesquite and various grasses and shrubs. Trees in the bottom lands are mainly American elm, cedar elm, Texas sugarberry, burr oak, and green ash. In well-watered zones along the river, the woodlands are made up of pecan, walnut, cottonwood, sycamore, black willow, and several kinds of shrubs, and vines.

The area hosts many species of both resident and migrant birds including the endangered Golden-Cheek Warbler and the Black-Capped Vireo along with wild turkeys. Waterfowl are occasionally seen near ponds and slack water pools. Mammals known to live in this environment include white-tailed deer, coyote, bobcat, raccoon, beaver, skunk, opossum, armadillo, fox squirrel, rabbit, and small rodents. There are also several kinds of lizards and snakes, and a variety of fish live in suitable portions of the river. A bird checklist is available at park headquarters. Go to the USGS Somervell County Butterfly Checklist for information on butterflies in this area.
Swimming
1. Dinosaur Valley State Park offers two main swimming areas: the Blue Hole and Paluxy River.
2. The Blue Hole is a popular spot, with clear water surrounded by limestone cliffs.
3. Swimming in the Paluxy River allows visitors to cool off while exploring dinosaur tracks along its bed.
4. No lifeguards are on duty at either location; swim at your own risk.
5. Water shoes are recommended due to rocky riverbeds and potential sharp fossils underfoot.

6. Tubing down parts of the slow-moving river provides another fun way for park guests to enjoy water activities.

7. The best time for swimming is typically from late spring through early fall when temperatures rise above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

8. Picnic tables near both locations make it easy for families or groups planning an all-day outing involving meals as well as swims.


9. Swimming after heavy rains can be dangerous because currents may become stronger than usual so always check conditions before entering any body of water.



10. Children should always have adult supervision during their aquatic adventures within this state park.




Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Paluxy River, with species including catfish, bass and sunfish. No license is required for bank or pier fishing within park boundaries. Visitors are encouraged to follow catch-and-release practices to preserve fish populations.


Location
Dinosaur Valley State Park is located near Cleburne, Granbury and Burleson

Picnicking
1. Dinosaur Valley State Park offers numerous picnic tables throughout the park.
2. Picnic sites are available near river areas for scenic views.
3. Some picnic spots come with grills and shade shelters.
4. You can enjoy picnicking while viewing dinosaur tracks in certain locations.
5. Group pavilions, perfect for larger gatherings, require advance reservation.

Bicycling
Biking enthusiasts can enjoy over 20 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging. Helmets are strongly recommended.

Some paths offer steep climbs and descents which require advanced biking skills for safe navigation.

The Blue Trail is a beginner-friendly option with mostly flat terrain but does have some rocky sections.

For more experienced riders, the Red Trail provides difficult terrains including sharp turns and sudden elevation changes.

Remember that all bikers must yield to hikers on shared-use trails as per park rules.

Be aware that trail conditions may change due to weather; always check before setting out.

Riding off designated tracks isn't allowed in order protect local wildlife habitats and prevent soil erosion.

Lastly, ensure your bike has proper safety equipment such as lights if you plan on riding after sunset.
Trails
Day use only horseback riding is allowed in the South Primitive Area (users must provide their own horses, no overnight equestrian facilities). Backpack campsites are from 1 to 5.5 miles in to the North Primitive area; no restrooms in the area; water is available at the trail head. There are 7 miles of trails for hiking and backpacking and 12 for mountain biking.
Birding
Birdwatchers can spot various species such as the Painted Bunting, Summer Tanager and Blue Grosbeak. The park is home to numerous birds of prey like Red-tailed Hawks and American Kestrels. Waterfowl including Wood Ducks are also common sights in the area's river habitat. Birding trails offer opportunities for spotting migratory songbirds during spring or fall migration periods.
Area Attractions
Nearby attractions include Meridian and Cleburne State Parks; Acton State Historic Site (the state's smallest state park); Somervell County Museum; Somervell County Expo Center and Amphitheater, Comanche Peak Visitor's Center, Squaw Creek Reservoir, and the Fossil Rim Wildlife Park.

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Area Campgrounds
Tres Rios Resort
2322 County Road 312
Glen Rose, TX
254-221-0018
Oakdale Park
1019 Northeast Barnard Street
Glen Rose, TX
254-897-2321
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
The park is located 4 miles west of Glen Rose. Take US Highway 67 to FM 205 for 4 miles to Park Road 59; then go one mile to the headquarters. There is an honor box located at headquarters for collecting fees after office hours.

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Texas
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Texas State Parks

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