Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park

Visit an active excavation site full of ancient fossils.

Located in northeastern Nebraska, the Ashfall Fossil Beds is a research site actively digging and finding new specimens through their paleontological efforts. So far, 18 different species have been uncovered here, including mammals such as horses, turtles, camels, and deer. There have been discoveries here since 1991, beginning with a rhinoceros skeleton. These findings have indicated that America's heartland used to have a subtropical savanna climate. Many of the rhinos have fossilized grass seeds in their teeth, and several young calves are located right next to their mothers in the remnants of the large rhino herd that once lived here. An enormous volcanic eruption that occurred over 12 million years ago led to the extinction of this particular species.

Feel free to explore the nature and geology trails outside during your visit. This historical park is open to the public on varying days and hours from May to October. Admission is $7.50 per person, and children ages 3 and under are free to enter. Camping is available nearby at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area if you want to extend your stay in Royal, Nebraska. Discover what's in store at Nebraska's Ashfall Fossil Beds.