Ashfall Fossil Beds
Housed within 360 acres of Nebraska prairie, Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park offers visitors an immersive journey through ancient and modern ecosystems. Located near Royal, Nebraska, this active dig site preserves over 200 complete fossil skeletons. Explore the story behind the volcanic eruption and ashfall that froze this ancient watering hole in time through exhibits inside our air-conditioned Visitor Center. Visit with researchers as they excavate new fossils, or see the preserved fossils left in-situ (in place) inside the Hubbard Rhino Barn. Investigate modern wildlife and habitats by hiking one of our geology and nature trails. Come see why this National Natural Landmark is often referred to as “the Pompeii of prehistoric animals.”
Things to Do
Rockin' Rhino Bash
Saturday, July 12 | 9:30am-4:30pm
Join us for a Rockin' good time to celebrate Ashfall Fossil Beds' 35th anniversary. We'll have fossil preparation and casting, hands-on activities, demonstrations on fossil trackways, and more. Plus enjoy some cake and ice cream in our picnic pavilion. Activities included with admission.
Hubbard Rhino Barn
The highlight of most visits to the park, a boardwalk allows visitors to safely view excavated fossils in-situ while chatting with our researchers and student interns.
Nature Trails
Our park has several trails visitors can hike to explore the geology of the region, as well as the flora and fauna. Watchable wildlife signs help guests identify plants and animals to look for.
Heritage Center
Try your hand at being a paleontologist by digging for fossils inside our replica ash bed.
2026 Ashfall Fossil Beds Public Fossil Dig
Join an active fossil dig with UNSM paleontologists and paleontology student interns from Ashfall Fossil Beds.
The 2026 public fossil excavation will take place in rural Antelope County, Nebraska, near Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park. Previous excavations at this site have uncovered camel and horse fossils, as well as a large species of barrel-bodied rhino, Teleoceras fossiger. The site is scheduled for expansion to accommodate this year’s excavation.
Excavation dates are July 23-25, 2026. A maximum of 12 participants are allowed each day. Participants must be at least 16 years of age, and participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult (19+). All participants must carry their own insurance, and must sign a liability waiver and a photo release form. Additional details are available in the registration form.
COST: $100/registrant per day
Education
On-Site Programs
Explore the park and fossils in-person
- Self-guided field trips
- Spring guided tours
- Summer guided tours
- Fall guided tours
Distance Learning
Bring the museum directly to your classroom!
- Virtual Field Trips
- Science Chat Specials
- Educator Resources
Become a Member
Explore more, save more, experience more across all UNSM sites with a museum membership.
- Unlimited access to Morrill Hall, Ashfall Fossil Beds, Trailside Museum
- Monthly Museum Happenings e-newsletter and bi-annual the Mammoth print newsletter
- Reciprocal access to dozens of science centers across the U.S. through the ASTC Passport Program