Fossil Rim Wildlife Center: A Texas Safari Experience in Glen Rose

If you are looking for a unique wildlife experience in Texas, Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose is definitely worth a visit. Located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Fossil Rim offers an experience that feels a little like going on safari without leaving Texas.

Instead of walking from one exhibit to another, you drive through large open habitats where animals roam throughout the landscape. Giraffes, zebras, antelope, deer and other wildlife may come surprisingly close to your vehicle, making this very different from a traditional zoo.

I had the opportunity to visit Fossil Rim Wildlife Center for the first time, and it was quite an experience.

A Texas Safari

Fossil Rim is a nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to wildlife conservation, research, education and environmental awareness. The property covers about 1,800 acres and is home to more than 1,100 animals representing more than 50 species.

The setting is part of what makes Fossil Rim so special. You travel through the rolling Texas Hill Country while watching animals move through large, natural-looking habitats.

You never quite know what you will see around the next curve.

Our Visit

When we visited, I quickly realized that we were not the only ones excited about photographing the animals. There were vehicles filled with children and cars filled with photographers like us, all trying to get the best possible view.

Our vehicle had a sunroof, and we were taking full advantage of it. You would have seen little more than our legs inside the vehicle because our upper bodies were sticking up through the opening as we tried to photograph the animals.

It was one of those funny travel moments that makes a trip memorable.

One important note for today's visitors: Fossil Rim's vehicle rules have changed. Current rules require guests to remain inside their vehicles during the scenic drive. Vehicles must have a solid roof and enclosed doors, and sunroofs must remain closed. Passengers also cannot ride in the bed of a pickup truck.

So while I am keeping this story because it was part of our visit, don't plan on photographing the animals that way today!

The Gosdin Scenic Drive

The main attraction at Fossil Rim is the Gosdin Scenic Drive, a self-guided 7.2-mile drive through the wildlife preserve.

You remain in your own vehicle and travel through the park at your own pace. Fossil Rim recommends allowing at least 1½ hours for the drive, although you may want to allow additional time if you stop at the Overlook.

One of the things I enjoyed most was that the animals weren't simply standing behind fences waiting for visitors to come by. They have room to move throughout their habitats, so every visit can be different.

You might be driving along without seeing much and then suddenly find an animal standing right beside your vehicle.

That unpredictability is part of the fun.

Fossil Rim also allows visitors to feed certain animals using approved animal feed provided by the park. Visitors should not bring their own food to feed the animals.

And if you enjoy photography, bring your camera. You are photographing wildlife in a natural outdoor setting rather than behind the bars or glass of a traditional zoo exhibit.

The Overlook

About halfway through the scenic drive, you'll reach the Overlook, where you can get out of your vehicle and stretch your legs.

This is a good place to take a break and enjoy the scenery. The area includes the Overlook Café, Nature Store and Animal Discoveries, as well as places to walk and explore.

If you are traveling with children, this is also a nice opportunity to take a break before continuing the drive.

Be sure to take a few minutes to enjoy the view before getting back in the car.

Things to Know Before You Go

If you're planning a visit to Fossil Rim, here are a few things worth knowing:

• Buy your tickets in advance. Current admission prices vary by date, season and age, so check Fossil Rim's website for the price on the day you plan to visit.
• Allow plenty of time. The scenic drive is 7.2 miles and takes at least 1½ hours. Allow extra time if you want to visit the Overlook.
• Stay inside your vehicle. Current vehicle and safety rules require guests to remain inside during the scenic drive.
• Sunroofs must remain closed. Current rules also prohibit passengers from riding in pickup beds.
• Pets are not allowed. Contact Fossil Rim ahead of time if you need information about service animals.
• Only use approved animal feed. Do not bring your own food to feed the animals.
• Check hours before you go. Hours and admission information can change seasonally.

For the most current admission prices, hours and rules, check the official Fossil Rim website before your visit.

Plan Your Visit

Fossil Rim Wildlife Center
2299 County Road 2008
Glen Rose, Texas 76043
Phone: 254-897-2960

Fossil Rim is located near Glen Rose, southwest of Fort Worth and Dallas, making it a great addition to a Texas road trip or an easy day trip from the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Final Thoughts

Our visit to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center was one of those experiences that was different from what I expected—and that is exactly what made it so memorable.

There is something exciting about driving down the road and realizing that the animal you came to see isn't behind a fence. It may be standing just a few feet from your vehicle.

I went expecting a wildlife park. What I found was something much closer to a Texas safari.
If you're visiting the Glen Rose area or looking for a unique day trip in Texas, I think Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is worth adding to your itinerary.

Bring your camera, allow plenty of time, follow the current park rules, and keep your eyes open.
You never know what might be waiting around the next turn.

Before You Go:

Visit Fossil Rim Wildlife Center for current admission prices, hours, reservations and visitor information

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