About Glen Rose
The History of Glen Rose
The area was first settled in 1849 by Charles Barnard, who opened a trading post near Comanche Peak. A three-story stone gristmill was constructed along the Paluxy River and the town that grew up around it became known as Barnard’s Mill. The citizens later voted to call the community Glen Rose. A post office opened in 1874. Throughout the period from the 1900s to the 1920s, Glen Rose was home to approximately 1,000 people. The area’s mineral springs attracted numerous doctors and self-styled healers to the community. During Prohibition, the area was a center of moonshining and Glen Rose became known as the “whiskey woods capital of the state. 111 rated businesses were located in Glen Rose as of 1991. By 2000, the population of the city had grown to 2,122 and the total number of rated businesses rose to 224.
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Local Glen Rose Attractions
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. This long trip to the past is just a short drive from Fort Worth.
Things to Do
Find dinosaur tracks, camp, picnic, hike, mountain bike, swim and fish in the river, watch for wildlife, look for a geocache, ride your horse, or visit our interpretive center.
Stay at one of our regular or backpack campsites. Explore 20 miles of trails. Shop our park store for souvenirs, camping and fishing supplies, books and much more.
Discover dinosaur tracks: It’s easy to find dinosaur tracks in the park – just head to the river!
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Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is dedicated to the conservation of species in peril, conducting scientific research, training of professionals, responsible management of natural resources and public education. Through these activities, we provide a diversity of compelling learning experiences that inspire positive change in the way people think, feel and act towards nature.
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