News Release

Still Time to Join National Fossil Day!

Tim Gohrke, Artist-in-Residence

News Release Date: October 25, 2018

Contact: Thomas Condon Paleontology Visitor Center, 541-987-2333

Kimberly, Oregon– On October 27, from 10 am until 5 pm, visit the Thomas Condon Paleontology Visitor Center to celebrate our national fossil heritage. This annual celebration highlights the value of paleontology and the importance of fossil preservation.

While at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, immerse yourself in everything fossil. Join a practice lab with a paleontologist, create your own plaster leaf casts, and attend a ranger program. Oregon’s U.S. Senators encourage you to join in on the celebration.

“National Fossil Day is particularly special in Oregon, where we have the stunning John Day Fossil Beds National Monument,” said Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley. “Fossils tell the story of how Oregon’s and America’s natural wonders came to be. On this National Fossil Day, we should all reflect on the treasures that national monuments preserve so that all Americans can enjoy them now and for generations to come.”

“As a big part of Oregon’s Seven Wonders, the John Day Fossil Beds have a significant role in our state’s recreation and tourism economy built on our unmatched natural treasures,” Oregon’s U.S. Senator Ron Wyden said. “Fossil fans of all ages have a unique opportunity this National Fossil Day right here in Oregon to learn more about fossils and have fun at the Thomas Condon Paleontology Center– a fantastic science and education resource throughout the entire year.”

The visitor center will be open from 10 am – 5 pm. Throughout the day, earn your Junior Paleontologist badge, your John Day Fossil Beds Junior Ranger badge, and watch the park film. Park superintendent Patrick Gamman says, “This is such a special park with 40 million years’ worth of mammal fossils. Join us as we explore and celebrate ancient Oregon during National Fossil Day.”

As a reminder, winter operations at John Day Fossil Beds National Monument are from November 1 through February 28. During this time, the visitor center will be open 10 am - 5 pm, Tuesday through Saturday. The visitor center will be closed on Sundays and Mondays as well as all federal holidays. Beginning March 1, 2019, the visitor center will be open daily, 10 am - 5 pm. All outdoor recreation activities such as overlooks, hiking trails, and parking lots are always open daily from sunrise to sunset.