94% (23 reviews)
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Dinosaur Valley adventure.
Hike, bike, and horseback ride in the footprints of dinosaurs at this riverside park.
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Top-rated campgrounds near Dinosaur Valley State Park
99%
(462)
Pecans on the Paluxy - River Views
5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Pitch your tent or boondock your RV on the Paluxy River under giant pecan trees. Enjoy the scenic view of our beautiful river. Our private property is located near the historic square of glen rose but feels like you are miles away in the country. Have fun kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the views. We have 5 different spacious sites to choose from. Most have a tree break area in-between for privacy. Or rent all 5 and have the entire property to yourself.
Updated river photos will be posted on our Facebook page, or message me for updates. Unfortunately, I'm not able to control the river. It goes up and down depending on rain and temperatures. The river gets pretty low during July and August. Wheeler Branch Reservoir(only a few miles from camp) is a great spot to swim and fish when the river water levels are lower. Very small lake that is good for swimming and kayaking with a dock, clear waters.
We have 5 different sites. All of them overlook the Paluxy River, have rock fire pits, seating areas, patios, and stairs down to riverbed. You will have access to one of the most beautiful parts of the Paluxy River.
During drought conditions and high temperatures I always recommend keeping your head above water and avoiding stagnant areas in the river.
In order to reserve a spot you must be 21 or over. This is not a extremely remote place where you can party and go crazy. We want everyone to be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
Site Big Pecan: This is the farthest site upriver and has one of the largest pecan trees I've ever seen. The trees provide great shade cover during the summer. This site has an awesome rock patio seating area with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs overlooking the river with stairs to provide easy access down into the water. It also has a rock firepit with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs on a rock patio. Also includes a kids sand box, and a picnic table with shade umbrella, and numerous extras available to rent.
Site 1 Limestone ledge: Firepit seating area overlooking the river with 4 Adirondack chairs and a shade umbrella, separate rock patio closer to the water overlooking the river with 2 wooden rocking chairs, stairs down to riverbed, huge pecan trees, kids play set with sand box, 1 picnic table, shade umbrella, and a 10' x 10' raised tent deck platform overlooking the river.
Site 2: Firepit seating area overlooking limestone riverbed with 3 Adirondack chairs, picnic table with a shade umbrella, 10' x 10' raised tent / deck platform, stairs down to riverbed and shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
Site 3: Firepit seating area overlooking the riverbed, 2 wooden Adirondack chairs, 2 picnic tables, 1 shade umbrella, 2 sets of rock stairs to the riverbed, shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
Site 4 Farthest site downstream. Nice rock patio overlooking the river with two wooden rocking chairs. Easy access for RVs and trailers. Rock stairs to the river for easy access. Fire pit with rock patio around it with 4 wooden Adirondack chairs. Picnic table with shade umbrella. Kids sand box. Shallow areas for kids to play in the river. Deeper fishing hole about 100 feet down river. Great area to sit in the river with a lawn chair. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
A lot of people buy two sites for more privacy and room for larger groups. For example, many purchase Big Pecan and site 1 together. Or sites 2 and 3.
kayaks, wood, outdoor games, frisbee golf baskets and disc, grill and utensils, propane firepit, and other extras available for rent. Please select those during checkout
Tips:
Bring river shoes, nose plugs, swimming essentials. Parts of the river can be very slippery. Bring life jackets, especially for children.
Bring the essentials for any camping trip including: sunscreen, bug spray, anti-itch meds, etc. Chairs and sunshades to sit in the river are always popular.
The Paluxy river ranges from just a few inches deep to 5 feet deep in our camping area. There are more swimming holes a little deeper up and downstream.
No restroom or water - pack in, pack out. Bring your own potty and water. If you are not familiar with dry camping do some research. There are all types of methods for restrooms, heating, cooling, etc. available now to make it enjoyable.
Dogs are allowed on leash. Please do not allow your dog to roam freely if they are aggressive in nature. Clean up after them.
Activities Nearby: Dinosaur Valley State Park (Hiking, Biking, Swimming) - 4.5 miles Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Drive through the park) - 3.9 miles Historic Glen Rose Square (Eat, shop) - .5 miles Big Rocks Park (Free, Kids love to crawl on the huge boulders and wade in the river) - 1.3 miles Oakdale Park (Swimming pool, playground) - 1.4 miles Paluxy Heritage Park / River Walk (Free, Pretty walk, Connects to Big Rocks dam)- 1.2 miles Somervell County Museum (Free, donation) - .7 miles Wheeler Branch Reservoir - (small lake, good kayak fishing, clear)Expo Center (Rodeos, dog shows, different events depending on schedule)
Places to eat:*Hammonds BBQ - 2 miles*Sexton Feed Mill Grill/Bar (River View) - .7 miles Los Primos Mexican Food/Bar - 1.7 miles*Mama Mia Mexican Cuisine -*Riverhouse Grill (Lil more upscale) - .4 miles*The Green Pickle (Hamburgers) - .7 milesLa Vita Italian Food - .7 miles*Big Cup Eatery (Breakfast, Dinner) - .9 miles* Storiebook Cafe (Sandwiches, wraps)- .8 miles Beehive Cafe - (hamburgers, Mexican food)Simple Simons (Pizza, calzones) -Snyder's Tavern Bar - .5 miles Blackies Bar/Grill - .7 miles Bull Lion Ranch Winery - .7 miles*Shoo-Fly Soda Shop (Ice-cream, pies) - .7 miles*Loco Coyote Grill/Bar (BBQ) - 8.8 miles Crave Bakery (coffee, pastries) - .8 miles*Grounded Coffee Shop (Coffee, salad bar)Debbie’s Restaurant (Breakfast) -Tiger Corner (Pastries, Sandwiches) -Subway -Sugar Biscuits (Lil Everything) -Teriyaki Chinese Food -Sunshine Doughnuts - *Rough Creek Lodge (upscale reservations, lunch $25, Dinner $125) - 15 miles*Overlook Cafe Fossil Rim (Free by bypassing main entrance, hamburgers, awesome view, petting zoo, gift shop) - 4 miles 7-Eleven Laredo Taco -Tacote (breakfast burritos, lunch)
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94%
(505)
Gypsy Moon Hideaway
13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Weatherford, TX
Located at the end of the road. There is over 20 acres. Some cleared and some still in original woods. Trees, grass and deer everywhere. There is over a quarter mile of Brazos riverfront property although you cannot get to the river on all of it due to it being in its natural state. There is a beach at the main camp that provides easy in and out of the water. the water depth varies with the rainfall but is usually between 2-4 feet deep.
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$28
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Booked 11 times
High Hope Ranch
8 sites · Tents1000 acres · Walnut Springs, TX
Welcome to High Hope Ranch, a sprawling 1000-acre sanctuary nestled atop the majestic Texas Hill Country. As you traverse the rolling hills, you'll be greeted by breathtaking vistas that stretch out to the north, offering sweeping views of The Great Plains beyond.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural wonders of the ranch, where millions of years of geological evolution have left their mark. Explore the rugged terrain and discover prehistoric ravines carved by ancient oceans, adorned with fascinating oceanic fossils such as sand dollars, sea urchins, and ammonites.
Our camping sites offer a primitive yet immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature in its purest form. Pitch your tent amidst fields of vibrant bluebonnets in April, or revel in the splendor of the Milky Way under the October sky. For a truly enchanting experience, set up camp alongside the flowing creeks at sites like Uchawi, where the soothing sound of water creates a tranquil ambiance.
Embark on an adventure along over 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through the ranch's diverse landscapes, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Be sure to schedule a visit to our working farm, where you can interact with friendly animals like pigs, goats, and Zoey the Donkey, gaining insight into sustainable farming practices and animal husbandry.
Before you depart, don't forget to visit our Farm Store, where you can stock up on a variety of farm-fresh delights, including pasture-raised meats, canned goods, and freshly harvested produce grown right here on the ranch.
At High Hope Ranch, we invite you to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and embrace the serenity and splendor of the Texas Hill Country. Whether you seek adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with nature, our ranch offers a sanctuary where dreams take flight and memories are made to last a lifetime. Welcome to High Hope Ranch, where the spirit of the land beckons you to explore, discover, and thrive.
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$40
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97%
(460)
EcoRich Ranch
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents100 acres · Bluff Dale, TX
Come stay on our 100 acre Richard Creek Valley getaway, gently tucked away on the north slope. There are four campsites on the property and they are all at least 150 yards away from each other. Each site is private. When the ground is dry there is access for all vehicles. When the ground is muddy, Brookside, RiverRock, and Richardson Creek campsites require a 4-wheel drive and have alternate routes to get to them. Ancient Oaks is an all-weather site. You can enjoy hiking and swimming in Richardson Creek when water levels permit. Canoeing from Bakers Crossing put-in which is only 3 miles away.
Some places to check out while you are here include Dinosaur Valley State Park, Dinosaur World, Granbury Historic Square, Stephenville Rodeo, Bakers Crossing River Put-In, Oakdale Plunge Pool, and BigRocks Park in Glen Rose.
Please no loud noises after 9:00 pm as this is quiet time, out of respect for other campers.
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$35
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99%
(153)
DeerCreek Campground
7 sites · Tents57 acres · Cleburne, TX
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$35
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86%
(55)
Sandy Bottoms River Company
27 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents7 acres · Weatherford, TX
Learn more about this land:
Sandy Bottoms River Company is a diamond in the rough offering primitive tent with river access, river bank tent camping, RV spots, RV rentals, cabins and a vacation home. $28 Primitive remote tent camp is a short walk across the street to a 3 level dock for access to the sandy Brazos River. River tent sites give you the option to upgrade and camp on the river with a 300' of sandy beach to play on. $50.00 for direct primitive river front tent camping. All of our spots are heavily shaded! Porta Potties, fire rings, picnic tables and water available at all campgrounds. If you are looking for an RV, cabins or vaca home to rent for your stay, message us for more details. Enjoy 123 miles of river connecting Possum Kingdom to Lake Granbury for tubing, fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming, wildlife watching, and the great outdoors.
BOOK today for tubing, kayaks and standup paddleboard! $5 BYOTT {bring your own tube and transportation} $20 per person for tube day pass, transportation and tubes included! If you are interested in golf we can make accommodations at our local course. Check us out at Sandy Bottoms River Company @ Facebook
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$23
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Booked 1 time
Cedar Ridge RV Park
57 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Whether stopping for the night, taking in the local attractions or needing a place to stay for work we welcome you to visit our park. We have pull through sites to support large class A motorhomes with a tow behind vehicle and also smaller back in spaces for truck campers and trailers. All RV spots include full hookup, including electricity of 30 or 50 Amp, city water and sewer connection at all spaces. Restrooms, showers, laundry and Wifi free for all guests.
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$13.33
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98%
(165)
Bee Mountain Resort
9 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · Cleburne, TX
Nature and wildlife mixed with fun and relaxation, Bee Mountain Resort is truly a one-of-a-kind property! Private, spacious and beautiful, we are blessed with 1.5 miles of sandy beaches along Brazos River and the road coming here dead ends at our front gate.
Customers are usually groups of friends & family; many having camped here for years. A few even claim to have grown up on the river and, to some extent, that might be true. Bee Mountain Resort is a secluded off-the-grid campground that's been around since the '70s. And it's pretty well known to the locals.
I first discovered the Brazos River in 1985 when looking for great water to ski on. And since that time, I've developed many great memories here. I would describe our ranch as classic and old school. Change comes pretty slow here.....and we like it that way. Family, friends, kids & pets all love our amazing getaway. A rare gem best shared with good people.
Each and every campsite is located directly on the river and all of them are huge. Firewood, ice, kayaks, paddle boards and generators are available at low prices. Great tasting water from our deep well, clean restrooms and a camper dump station are located on the premises. We are very pet friendly providing your pet is friendly.
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$50
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100%
(19)
Country Woods Inn
4 sites · Lodging40 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Welcome to an adventure!
Cabin on the SAME river 113 million year old dinosaur tracks were just discovered minutes upstream in Dinosaur Valley State Park.
40 wooded acres on the Paluxy River with a river walk to the historic downtown square. Minutes from Fossil Rim, Dinosaur State Park, Dinosaur World and The Promise, this Award Winning inn is the perfect setting for Family Reunions, Church Retreats and Weddings in the breathtaking Chapel in the Woods!
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$175
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Skybox Cabins
5 sites · Lodging50 acres · Glen Rose, TX
At the tip-top of the Texas hill country, our cabins offer endless views from their bedroom balconies while providing a rustic feel with modern amenities. It is the perfect spot to feel both lost and found all at once.
Whether you want to go glamping or you plan to lounge in one of our luxury cabins, you'll find something to enjoy with SkyBox!
We have an incredibly easy booking and contactless check-in process so you can start your vacation smoothly!
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$222.33
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93%
(62)
HighView at The Brazos River
7 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Millsap, TX
At High View at The Brazos River, you'll enjoy all the amazing things our 50 acre land has to offer.
A small trail around the property to walk around.
Outdoor grills available.
Brazos River runs through the property and includes a great place to go tubing by.
Please be aware of any insects, bugs, snakes, etc.
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$20
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100%
(9)
The Dusty Nickel
8 sites · RVs, Tents52 acres · Cleburne, TX
Learn more about this land:
Step away from the hustle and bustle of city life back to a quiet ranch setting. Set on a beautiful working cattle ranch surrounded by hills, this camping area gives you the peace and serenity you are looking for. Spend the days exploring the ranch, playing in the seasonal creek, fishing in the stock tank, or feeding the wild cows. Then, spend the nights looking up at the stars, sitting by the campfire and enjoying the night time sounds of the wild. When you need time away from the ranch, visit nearby Cleburne State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, the Brazos river, historic Glen Rose, or enjoy a Cleburne Railroaders baseball game.
Although there is plenty of room for all campers at the Dusty Nickel, we want to leave room for our grass fed cows to roam too, so we are limiting it to 4 camping spots per night. There isn't electric, sewer or water at the sites, however, water is available near the house to refill tanks etc. The owner does live on site, but will respect your privacy and you can be out of the direct sight of the house depending where you camp.
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$40
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The best camping near Dinosaur Valley State Park guide
Overview
About
Dinosaur enthusiasts will be in their element at Dinosaur Valley. First, marvel at fossilized footprints along the shores of the Paluxy River, map out ancient theropod and sauropod tracks, then pose for photos with a Brontosaurus or T-Rex (or their model counterparts, at least). Once you’ve got your dinosaur fix, there are 20 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails to explore, after which you can cool off with a swim in the river or fish for catfish. Camping options are equally adventurous with hike-in tent sites and rustic riverside pitches, as well as RV hookups.
Notable campgrounds
- Best for family campers: Dinosaur Valley Campground has 44 sites with electric hookups, plus two group camps and a children’s playground.
- Best for escaping the crowds: North Primitive Camping Area has hike-in sites hidden away in the wilds but zero facilities—bring everything you need.
- Best for riverside views: South Primitive Camping Area has eight walk-in sites with grills and fire rings, all a short stroll from the waterfront.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- You can reserve one of the park’s 61 campsites in advance via the Texas State Parks website.
- Campsite reservations open five months in advance, or 12 months in advance for the two group sites.
- Campsites can book up fast for summer and holiday weekends—book as early as possible, especially if you have a particular site in mind.
When to go
Dinosaur Valley State Park is open year-round, but it’s busiest from March through November. Rainfall can be common at any time of year, and it’s worth checking conditions before you visit—dinosaur tracks are located in the riverbed and may not be visible during wet periods. Heavy rainfall can also mean trail closures.
Know before you go
- Dinosaur Valley State Park is located 60 miles southwest of Fort Worth, about a 1-hour drive away.
- Park entrance fees are required in addition to camping fees.
- Facilities include restrooms, picnic benches, playgrounds, and a park store selling souvenirs, camping and fishing supplies, snacks, and soft drinks.
- Dinosaur tracks are along the riverbed, so bring waterproof hiking boots and a change of clothes, as you’ll likely get wet. A GPS-activated digital dinosaur track is available to download.
- Horseback riding is possible in the park, and guided trail rides are also available. However, there is no equestrian camping.
Top cities near Dinosaur Valley State Park
- Dinosaur Valley State Park
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