Discover Dinosaurs: Top Fossil Sites in the USA
Dinosaurs and other extinct plants and animals have long captivated our imaginations, and while contact with these ancient creatures may seem impossible outside of Jurassic Park, they are actually around us. The North American continent is home to numerous fossil sites featuring ancient creatures, both big and small. These fascinating locations include deserts that were once the floors of ancient oceans and urban corridors where, millions of years ago, continents tore apart.
Whether you have fossil-obsessed kids at home this summer or are a fossil enthusiast yourself, there are excellent destinations to investigate the prehistoric past firsthand. Here are some exciting locations where you can indulge your interest in dinosaurs.
Dinosaur National Monument, Utah
Located just across the Colorado border in Utah’s Unita Mountains, Dinosaur National Monument is renowned as one of the most famous fossil hotspots in the country. Here, you can find fossils of creatures such as the stegosaurus, allosaurus, and apatosaurus. Many specimens from this area are displayed in leading science museums worldwide, including the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History and NYC’s Museum of Natural History.
Explore dinosaurs embedded in the stone of the Carnegie Quarry, or visit McKee Springs to see ancient petroglyphs created by the Fremont indigenous group over 1000 years ago. Outdoor beauty also abounds—head to Harpers Corner for breathtaking views or to Echo Park to watch the confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers.
Where to camp nearby
There are six campgrounds within Dinosaur National Monument. Alternatively, if you prefer a more luxurious experience, consider camping at nearby Vernal, Utah, where you can stay in Steinaker State Park or Red Fleet State Park.
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, Nebraska
Moving on to Agate Fossil Beds, this site is famous for mammalian fossils, where scientists unearthed 20-million-year-old mammals such as the moropus—a hybrid of a donkey and anteater—and the massive dinohyus (equal to a bison in size).
Hike the Fossil Hills Trail to view the quarries where significant fossils were found in the early 1900s, or explore the Daemonelix Trail, which showcases the strange petrified homes of the palaeocastor, or dry land beaver. Make sure to have a fully charged phone and a full tank of gas as this location provides a unique experience while promoting social distancing.
Where to camp nearby
Though there’s no camping directly at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument, you can find sites at Toadstool Geologic Park, where you can learn more about ancient fossils as well.
Dinosaur State Park, Connecticut
Dinosaur State Park hosts one of the largest dinosaur track sites in North America, with 3,500 tracks made during the Jurassic period. The best examples are housed in the Exhibit Center, a geodesic dome serving as the park’s centerpiece. Although the center is temporarily closed, you can still enjoy the surrounding trails, showcasing volcanic rock and flora from the dinosaur era.
Where to stay nearby
While Dinosaur State Park does not offer camping, there are nearby vacation rentals, ideal for those who prefer staying indoors.
Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, Colorado
The scientific exploration of the rich fossil deposits at Florissant began in the late 1800s and continues today. Paleontologists are uncovering new pieces of the area’s history, investigating volcanic ash, fossil insects, and petrified forest stumps. For fossil enthusiasts, outdoor exhibits featuring ancient forest stumps and a geologic trail highlighting earth’s forces offer a lasting impression.
Where to camp nearby
While camping isn’t available within Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, you can find campgrounds at nearby Mueller State Park or Pike National Forest. A little further away is 100 Mile Overlook at 105 West Ranch, a private glamping location.
Big Brook Preserve, New Jersey
Shifting focus to a different era, Big Brook Preserve serves as a hotspot for finding Cretaceous-era fossilized shark teeth. It was once submerged by the ocean, and in addition to shark teeth, bones and teeth from mosasaurs and plesiosaurs have been discovered. You are encouraged to sift through the creek beds, but remember, you can only keep five fossils a day and must respect the rules of fossil gathering.
Where to stay nearby
Although camping is not permitted near Big Brook Preserve, plenty of excellent hotels are available in nearby Middletown, including Oyster Point, a boutique hotel with marina views.
Badlands National Park, South Dakota
The stunning rock formations of Badlands National Park have sheltered ancient wildlife throughout history. Fauna such as the oreodont, Nimravid (false saber-toothed cats), and brontothere (ancient rhinoceros) roamed these lands, and paleontologists continue to explore this area.
Although the visitor center’s paleontology lab is near, it’s temporarily closed. The park is recognized as one of the best places in the country for fossil exploration. Enjoy hiking, scenic drives, and night sky viewing amid the region’s geological wonders.
Where to camp nearby
There are numerous camping options within Badlands National Park, or for a unique experience, explore Plenty Star Ranch, located near Wind Cave National Park.
Montour Preserve, Pennsylvania
At the Montour Preserve Fossil Pit, you can explore a site rich with fossilized brachiopods, gastropods, trilobites, and more. Visitors should bring basic tools such as a small hammer, safety goggles, and a brush. For an optimal experience, arrive early to beat the heat.
Where to camp nearby
While camping isn’t permitted at Montour Preserve, you can explore backcountry camping options at Barakah Heritage Farm, where a tent is available for rent if you lack camping gear.
