Dinosaur Valley State Park is a premier fossil collecting location in Somervell County, Texas. The site exposes Early Cretaceous fossils where visitors can hunt for dinosaur tracks in-situ trackways.
Tracks are protected; viewing only – no collecting allowed. Visitors can walk in the river to see tracks when water level permits (seasonal). Visitor center with excellent exhibits about dinosaurs and track formation. Multiple trackways visible showing both theropod and sauropod dinosaurs. Entrance fee charged. One of the best places in North America to see in-situ dinosaur tracks. The tracks show clear details including toe pads and claw marks.
Dinosaur Valley State Park preserves some of the best-preserved dinosaur tracks in the world. The trackways were discovered in the 1930s in the Paluxy River bed. Both theropod (meat-eating) and sauropod (long-necked plant-eating) trackways are visible. The park was established to protect these remarkable trace fossils.
This complete guide covers everything you need to know about fossil collecting at Dinosaur Valley, including directions to the site, collecting rules and regulations, the types of fossils you can find, and what to expect during your visit. Glen Rose provides the nearest services and amenities for visiting collectors.
Location and Directions
You can find Dinosaur Valley in Somervell County, Texas.
Directions to Dinosaur Valley
To reach Dinosaur Valley: You can park at the entrance off US 67 south of Glen Rose; trails lead to dinosaur trackways in Paluxy River.
When you arrive, the fossil collecting area is located at the Paluxy River dinosaur trackways preserved in limestone.
What Fossils You’ll Find
Fossils at Dinosaur Valley date to the Early Cretaceous. Dinosaur tracks is the most commonly found fossils at this Glen Rose, Texas site.
Geologic History
Dinosaur Valley exposes the Glen Rose Formation, a significant Early Cretaceous geological unit in Somervell County, Texas.
Millions of years ago, the area that is now Glen Rose, Texas was a river floodplain and tidal flat environment. The climate was warm and humid subtropical to tropical with seasonal variations and tidal influences.
As these ancient organisms died, sediments buried and preserved their remains. Over millions of years, geological processes transformed these sediments into the fossil-bearing rocks visible at Dinosaur Valley today.
How Dinosaur Valley Became a Fossil Collecting Site
Dinosaur Valley was established as a protected area to preserve fossil resources while providing public access for education and collecting. Recognition of the site’s paleontological importance led to its designation as a managed collecting location.
Park or preserve status protects Dinosaur Valley from commercial exploitation while maintaining access for hobbyists and researchers. This management approach ensures fossil resources remain available for future generations while allowing current visitors to experience the thrill of discovery.
Collecting Rules & Regulations
Is Fossil Collecting Allowed?
Dinosaur Valley does NOT allow fossil collecting for visitors.
Sources
Texas State Parks Dinosaur Valley documentation; Glen Rose Formation geological studies
New to fossil hunting? Start here! Beginner's Guide to Fossil Hunting!
Have questions? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.