Fossil Butte National Monument Visitor Center, National Park Service visitor center in Lincoln County, Wyoming.
The Fossil Butte National Monument Visitor Center houses over 80 fossil specimens and casts from the Eocene period, featuring fish, insects, plants, and early mammals. A network of trails extends from the building to fossil observation points throughout the monument grounds.
Coal mining operations in the late 1800s led to the discovery of fossils in this area, sparking scientific interest in the region. This initial finding eventually resulted in the establishment of the monument and ongoing research activities.
The center serves as a place where people come to learn about ancient worlds that once existed in this region. Ranger-led demonstrations show how fossils are extracted from rock, giving visitors a hands-on understanding of what scientists do here.
The center operates on different schedules depending on the season, so it is wise to check hours before your visit. The connected trails are accessible to most visitors and allow exploration of fossil observation points throughout the area.
Scientists here study one of the most complete records of ancient aquatic communities preserved in the Green River Formation anywhere in North America. This exceptional collection provides insights into prehistoric water ecosystems that thrived millions of years ago.
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