Animal paradises in Glen Rose STORY BY Monica Faram
Looking for a getaway outside of Cleburne? Tucked alongside the scenic Paluxy River, Glen Rose is a small town packed with big charm and even bigger adventures. Spanning just 4 square miles, the community offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and endless fun. The city has two different animal venues that offer an informative and up-close look at animals.
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center brings together stunning Texas landscapes and animals with those from Africa, Asia and beyond.
Nestled on the outskirts of Glen Rose, the 1,800-acre facility is dedicated to the conservation of some of Earth’ s most endangered species.
Visit for a day, in your own vehicle, and then become a member. As a member you’ ll be able to visit as often as you like for free for 12 months.
Spend a relaxing weekend at their newly renovated Lodge. Take traffic out of the equation by booking a guided tour, where a knowledgeable guide will help you learn about the animals you’ re seeing
and what is being done to save them.
Since opening to the public in 1984, Fossil Rim has played a key role in the research and restoration of several endangered species, recently celebrating the birth of their 18th rhino calf.
Spend your weekend learning and exploring before returning to the Lodge to the sound of wolves howling from the center’ s Jim Jackson Intensive Management Area.
As a certified nonprofit and accredited zoological facility, all proceeds spent at Fossil Rim go towards their mission of land and animal conservation. Not to mention, kids under 3 get in free. Having fun never felt so good.
Glen Rose is home to Dinosaur Valley State Park. Long ago, dinosaurs left footprints in the mud at the edge of an ancient ocean. Today, you can walk in their tracks in the bed of the Paluxy River.
Find dinosaur tracks, camp, picnic, hike, mountain bike, swim, fish and paddle in the river, watch for wildlife, look for a geocache, ride your horse, or visit our interpretive center.
Stay at one of the state park’ s campsites. Explore 20 miles of trails. Shop the park store for souvenirs, camping and fishing supplies, books and much more.
Bring your own horse to explore the
100-acre South Primitive Area. The river runs through this wooded, semirocky part of the park. No potable water is available; horses can drink from the river( bring your own bucket).
Eagle Eye Ranch Carriage Company offers a variety of equestrian services from guided horseback riding to horse-drawn wagon rides, and wrangler-assisted trail rides for children 3-14 years old. To saddle up and enjoy some spectacular views along the park’ s scenic trails, contact them at 817-382-9855 or make a reservation.
Don’ t forget to visit Glen Rose’ s Historic Downtown Square, where you’ ll discover one-of-a-kind shops, mouthwatering dining options and the warm hospitality that makes Glen Rose truly special. Whether you’ re hiking scenic trails, strolling along the Riverwalk, or hitting the greens at Squaw Valley Golf Course, Glen Rose offers something for everyone.
16 Community Life