Sometimes you want an adventure without spending half the weekend in the car. These two destinations are close enough to Dallas for a day trip but still feel like you actually went somewhere.

One lets you walk beside real dinosaur tracks in a Texas riverbed. The other has a 77-foot waterfall tucked into the Arbuckle Mountains of Oklahoma.

We’ve visited both, and each makes an easy outdoor escape from DFW. Here’s what you need to know before you go!

Dinosaur Valley State Park | Glen Rose, Texas

Drive from Dallas: About 1.5–2 hours
How long to spend: 4–6 hours
Best for: Dinosaur tracks, hiking, river time and families

The main reason to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park is right in the name—you can see actual dinosaur footprints left in the limestone along the Paluxy River.

The park has five main dinosaur track areas, along with more than 20 miles of trails. Track visibility changes with river conditions, so always check the park website before making the drive.

Don’t Miss

Main Track Site
This is one of the primary places to look for dinosaur tracks. Be prepared to walk through or alongside the river depending on conditions.

Blue Hole
Another popular area for dinosaur tracks and a beautiful spot along the Paluxy River.

Paluxy River Trail
An easy 2-mile trail that follows the river and provides opportunities to spot additional tracks.

The Dinosaur Models
Stop for a photo with the giant dinosaur models near park headquarters. They were originally displayed at the 1964–65 New York World’s Fair.

What to Bring

Bring water shoes! Many of the tracks are in or near the riverbed, and the limestone can be slippery. I’d also pack plenty of water, sunscreen, snacks and a change of clothes if you plan to get in the river.

Know Before You Go

Admission is currently $8 per adult, and children 12 and younger are free. The park frequently reaches capacity, especially during its busy season from March through November, so I recommend reserving your day-use pass before you leave home.

Road Trip Queen Tip: Check track visibility before your trip! Lower water levels can make a huge difference in what you’re able to see. Texas Parks & Wildlife posts current track and trail conditions online.

Turner Falls Park | Davis, Oklahoma

Drive from Dallas: About 2 hours
How long to spend: 4–6 hours
Best for: Waterfalls, swimming, exploring and a summer day trip

Turner Falls is one of those places that doesn’t feel like it should be this close to Dallas.

The centerpiece is the 77-foot Turner Falls, surrounded by the Arbuckle Mountains. The 1,500-acre park also has a spring-fed creek, swimming areas, hiking, caves and the ruins of Dr. Collings’ Rock Castle.