Dinosaur Valley State Park

Hike Name: Dinosaur Valley State Park Location: central TX Length: 6 Submitted by: Randy Date Submitted: 0/0/00 Rating:	more Texas trail reviews Texas national parks Texas state parks
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Description
Hiking in Dinosaur Valley State Park is a pleasant venture into central Texas, highlighted by the dinosaur tracks located in the Paluxy river. Just after one starts at the trailhead, hikers cross the Paluxy river. Rocks are in the river to facilitate this crossing but wet rocks can be slippery. A hiking staff is recommended to help you cross the river without wearing wet socks and shoes for the duration of the hike and to help navigate through the fist-size rocks and slate along much of the trail. Most hiking and the primitive campsites are east of Denio creek. Hiking the longest route, a combination of the Denio Creek trail, the Outer Ridge trail, and the River trail, will net the hiker about 3.5 miles. The “Green” bike trail (west of Denio creek) adds about 2.5 miles. There are 7 primitive camp areas from which to choose. Campsites #1 and #2 are on the banks of Denio Creek. While these are pleasant locations, being down in the creek might intensify the summer heat. Campsite #5 is on a high point in the park and catches whatever breeze that might be available. This campsite also provides a scenic overview of the surrounding area. Campsite #7 is probably the furthest from the trailhead (about 1.5 miles) and is on a natural domed-area in the terrain. While most primitive campsites are set for 2 or 3 tents, site #7 could easily handle 10 to 12 tents and would be a good site for larger groups or scout troops. On my trip in early May of 2005, there was only 1 other campsite being used during the week. Trails are well marked and criss-cross the park, making it a good location for scout troops or others to learn orienteering without getting completely lost. Dinosaur Valley is a very popular RV spot and is near the Ft. Worth/Dallas metroplex. Thus, there are many visitors during summers, on weekends, and on holidays. With fewer visitors and reduced temperatures, the park is most pleasant for hiking in fall through early spring. If you need a light hike and night or two under the stars, give Dinosaur Valley State Park a try.

Directions to Hike
The park is located on Park Road 59, off of FM 205, about 3 miles from Glen Rose, TX.

Contact Information
Contact park headquarters at (254) 897-4588 or Texas State Park reservations at (512) 389-8900.

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