Fossils are evidence of ancient life. They are irreplaceable pieces of America's geologic heritage and tell the stories of America long before the United States existed. Fossils are found in the rocks, museum collections, and cultural contexts of more than 280 National Park Service areas and span every period of geologic time from billion-year-old stromatolites to Ice Age mammals that lived a few thousand years ago.
Dinosaur fossils found at least 21 NPS areas encompasses everything from some of the earliest to the last known dinosaurs of North America.
Take a virtual ranger-guided hike through time and across parks!
The history of NPS fossil preservation and growth of paleontology in U.S. are linked through colorful stories of exploration and discovery.
Get news and updates from around the parks and NNLs.
Visit national parks with paleontological resources and learn more about our important fossil heritage.
Celebrating 100 Years of Paleontological Discoveries in the Grand Canyon.
Secrets Revealed at Mammoth Cave!
Find education resources, Junior Paleontologist information, coloring books, and more.
Last updated: July 29, 2022