They tiptoe daintily to the edge of the water. Delicate ears twitch at the slightest sound; large brown eyes blink in the waning light of day. Then they bend slim necks downward to drink.

They are Grant's gazelles, originating in Kenya, the Sudan and Ethiopia, and they are but a few of the wonders waiting at the new Foothills Safari Camp.

The Safari camp, situated in the heart of one of the nation's largest wildlife centers -- Fossil Rim Wildlife Center near Glen Rose -- is a dream-come-true for those who want to get close to nature.

The nation's first encampment of this type, the Foothills Safari Camp features six double occupancy tents that are seasonably comfortable with central air and heat, a private bath and costum-designed interior decor.

Only yards from the tents, guests can watch as exotic animals migrate at dawn and dusk to the private lake -- animals such as the greater kudo, addax, gemsbok water buck, axis deer and sable antelope.

Especially sable antelope. Author James Michener said of Fossil Rim, "I saw more sable antelope there than I did in Africa."

A glass-walled pavilion and dining room provides guests with breathtaking scenery as they dine on a variety of homemade southwestern-style delights for breakfast and dinner.

But the three-day, two-night safari isn't just in the camp, gazing at the animals or eating delicious food. The days and nights offer an exciting variety of adventures to choose from. Experts in natural sciences, wildlife photography, paleontology and wildlife conservation will lead discussion sessions and guide safari guests in photography game drives, nature walks, stargazing, fossil hunting expeditions, visits to the red wolf and cheetah breeding facilities and much more.

This close-up adventure that puts you among 29 species of endangered, threatened and exotic wildlife costs $325 per person. Price includes all meals, and accommodations. Children 18 and under are welcome only on pre-planned family safaris, and no pets are allowed.

For more information, contact The Foothills Safari Camp at (817) 897-3398