Celebrate Our Geologic Heritage

During 2023 we celebrate the 14th Anniversary of National Fossil Day!  Join paleontologists, educators, and students in fossil-related events and activities across the country in parks, classrooms, and online during National Fossil Day.  National Fossil Day is an annual celebration held to highlight the scientific and educational value of paleontology and the importance of preserving fossils for future generations. Learn more, Dig 20 Ideas Inspired by National Fossil Day.

Next National Fossil Day is
Wednesday October 11, 2023

drawing of a turtle-like fossil

2023 Art Contest Announced

This year's contest theme is, “The Rise of Ancient Life in our National Parks and Monuments”

National Fossil Day poster with blue border and scene of prehistoric shark and other marine animals

NFD 2023 Poster Artwork

Featuring Mammoth Cave's Mississippian age shark and other marine animals.

two dinosaurs walking across a dry lakebed

Age of Dinosaurs

inosaur fossils found at least 21 NPS areas encompasses everything from some of the earliest to the last known dinosaurs of North America.

illustration of two Columbian Mammoths

Prehistoric Life of Tule Springs

Meet the Ice Age creatures that once roamed near modern day Las Vegas.

collage of partner logos

Partners Make NFD Happen

Artwork depicting the Coconino desert environment and two primitive tetrapods

Fossil Footprints Across Our Parks

Take a virtual ranger-guided hike through time and across parks!

painting of a large prehistoric bird-like animal hunting a smaller rodent-like animal

2022 Art Contest Winners

2022 Theme: “The Age of Mammals in our National Parks and Monuments”

ranger-led group activity learning about fossils

Become a Junior Paleontologist

Last updated: April 3, 2023

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