Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground near Glen Rose features numerous preserved dinosaur tracks along the Paluxy River. The region's limestone terrain creates natural swimming holes and fossilized imprints dating back 113 million years. Summer temperatures often exceed 100°F, making river access points particularly valuable for cooling off during hot months.
What to do
Explore dinosaur tracks: Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground where fossilized dinosaur footprints are visible in the riverbed. "This place is awesome. One of the best natural swimming holes I've found near DFW. There are dinosaur fossils everywhere. hiking is great, and even on a hot summer day you can go swim in the river or the blue hole," notes Julie W.
Wade in the Paluxy River: Access the water through trails at Dinosaur Valley RV Park where you can cool off during hot Texas days. "Site 412: on the newest 'row'... EASY access to the river (path was directly across from 411) and it was great for hanging out in the water. Shallow with shelves to sit on. Suggest water shoes for traction but our kids had a great time. Gentle flow - enough to be clean and refreshing but not too rough," explains Tiffany H.
Fish from the shoreline: Cast your line at Cleburne State Park's small lake located 27 miles east of Glen Rose. "We were able to fish, hike, and kayak. We got two large tents at our campsite and had plenty of room. The trees were also perfect for hanging out hammocks," shares Sarah J.
What campers like
Direct state park access: Campers at Dinosaur Valley RV Park appreciate the private entrance to the state park. "DVRVP shares a property line with DVSP. Guests are able to purchase a day pass online through the DVSP website and access DVSP without ever having to drive through the front entrance. It was a simple 1 minute walk to access the park through DVRVP," writes Jim H.
River proximity: The Paluxy River features multiple access points with varied depths. "Fantastic RV sites.. trees everywhere and each site is nestled amongst them. The Paluxy river runs through a few trails and there are Dino tracks. Gorgeous rock face above the River. Bring waterproof shoes or prepare to have wet shoes crossing the River," reports Jeff N.
Swimming areas: Meridian State Park Campground offers a 72-acre no-wake lake with designated swimming areas. "This is a great park for family fun, and would be awesome for family reunions or youth groups! They have literally everything you can think of for summer fun! Fishing, swimming, hiking, kayaking, bird watching!" says Brittany S.
What you should know
River conditions vary: Water levels at Dinosaur Valley State Park fluctuate based on recent rainfall. "Most of the trails, and primitive camp sites, are accessed by fording the river. This can be impossible depending on recent rain," warns Caleb H.
Site selection matters: At Cleburne State Park Campground, location impacts amenities. "We stayed on the East side so we would be close to bathrooms and drinking water. Be aware if you stay on the West side the bathrooms and water are about a mile away," advises Brittany S.
Pet restrictions: Some campgrounds limit the number of pets allowed. "2 pet limit per site. We would love to bring all three of our dogs. One is tiny and is an incident dog," notes Jim H. about Dinosaur Valley RV Park's policy.
Tips for camping with families
Book early for screened shelters: Meridian State Park Campground offers lakeside accommodations. "The BEST place to stay is the shelters on the lake hands down! There is also a CCC building at this park that serves as a gathering area on the lakeshore," recommends Tori M.
Seek shade during summer: Look for sites with natural coverage. "Keyhole camp grounds are great! About 4-6 sites backing up to a creek. Great if you have a big group. Close to bathrooms and trailhead. Great Lake area too. But we went in November," shares Amanda C. about Cleburne State Park.
Plan for water activities: Dog friendly campgrounds near Glen Rose often include water features. "Oakdale RV Resort & Motorcoach" sits across from Big Rock Park with river access. "This campground is right across the street from Big Rock Park and a close drive to Dinosaur State Park. This a a large RV Park with campsites and cabins. There's a huge pool with lifeguards and a big playground with updated equipment. My boys loved this place!!" says Paula M.
Tips from RVers
Consider pull-through accessibility: Oakdale RV Park offers sites for various rig sizes. "Pull-thru accommodations for large coaches with Full Hook ups. Nice city walking trail nearby and the Paluxy River. Family oriented with pool," explains John B.
Check site dimensions: At Tres Rios RV River Resort and Campground, site placement affects your experience. "Good place for full time campers or people with kids. Has decent playground for the kids and a pool. They are family friendly. Staff is friendly. Easy access to rivers. Nice walking area. Camping itself is right next to other campers, no trees and only some spots back up to the river," notes Corie E.
Look for level sites: Many Glen Rose area RV parks offer gravel pads that require minimal leveling. "We needed a last minute place to stay, and the lady who answered the phone was super nice. She gave us a fantastic pull-through spot with full hookups (30 and 50 amp) for a price that was the best we have ever seen," shares Alejandro G. about Midway Pines RV Park.
