Celebrate Our Geologic Heritage

During 2024 we celebrate the 15th 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 16, 2024

Color artwork of prehistoric life including plants and animals underwater.
2023 Art Contest Winners

2023 theme: “The Rise of Ancient Life in our National Parks and Monuments”

cover of coloring book with text Prehistoric Life in the national parks and cartoon scene
Prehistoric Life Coloring Book

The Prehistoric Life of the National Parks coloring book and extra bonus coloring pages are available to download!

ranger-led group activity learning about fossils
Become a Junior Paleontologist

Spanish and English books available for download.

collage of partner logos
Partners Make NFD Happen

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.

Last updated: November 20, 2023

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