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.”

White fossils in ground, excavated, with red circular numbered tags on top of the fossils

Things to Do

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.

Researcher talking to people on a fenced boardwalk overlooking excavated fossil digsite

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.

Nature trail sign infront of fence and gate entrance to a grass trail and field with yellowing tall grass, with trees and hills in the distance

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center houses our interpretive displays that discuss the history of the park and the volcanic eruption that doomed the animals in this ancient watering hole 12 million years ago. It also houses the museum's Working Visible Lab where visitors can meet our student interns and watch as they work on actual specimens. 

People at exhibit looking at items related to ashfall fossil beds

Virtual Tour

Take a virtual 360-degree tour of the park, including its Visitor Center and Rhino Barn, developed in cooperation with and hosted by Nebraska Public Media. 

Start Tour
Drone sky view of Ashfall Fossil Beds trails and buildings.

2026 Ashfall Fossil Beds Public Fossil Dig

Registration for our 2026 Public Fossil Dig is now closed. Thank you to all who joined us this year. We look forward to sharing the experience again next year. 

Three people working together to excavate a fossil rhino skull with buckets and grass in the background.

Education

Kids on boardwalk watching researcher talk from the digsite

On-Site Programs

Explore the park and fossils in-person

  • Self-guided field trips
  • Spring guided tours
  • Summer guided tours
  • Fall guided tours

LEARN MORE

Researcher with headset and mic on digsite with iPad

Distance Learning

Bring the museum directly to your classroom!

  • Virtual Field Trips
  • Science Chat Specials
  • Educator Resources

Learn More

Become a Member

Explore more, save more, experience more across all UNSM sites with a museum membership. 

Get my 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