There is no visitor center at Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument. The park is open daily during daylight hours, closed at night and on national holidays.
Admission to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument is free, with no entrance fees or passes required.
From Las Vegas, take US Highway 95 north, passing through Aliante and Centennial Hills, to uncover a prehistoric landscape just 20 miles from the Strip.
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument has two parking areas: one at N. Aliante Parkway & Moonlight Falls Avenue and another at Durango Drive & Moccasin Road. No specific RV size restrictions mentioned, but parking is for daytime use only, with no overnight parking allowed. Admission and parking are free.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, situated just north of Las Vegas, Nevada, is a verdant oasis that whispers tales of a prehistoric era. This 22,650-acre sanctuary, established in 2014, protects a rich tapestry of Ice Age fossils and rare flora, making it a unique urban park experience.
As you meander through the trails, whether on foot, bike, or horseback, the landscape unfolds like a natural museum. The Upper Las Vegas Wash, once a lush wetland, now reveals fossils of mammoths, lions, camels, and dire wolves, each a testament to the region’s evolutionary history. The rare Las Vegas bear poppy flowers dot the landscape, adding vibrant splashes of color to the arid terrain.
Seasonal changes bring distinct charm; spring awakens the desert with blooming wildflowers, while autumn paints the skies with hues of golden sunlight. The area is alive with paleontological discoveries, including the iconic Columbian mammoth, ground sloths, and ancient camels, which have fascinated scientists since the early 1900s.
For those seeking an immersive experience, guided tours and educational programs offer deep dives into the monument’s scientific and historical significance. Local outfitters provide equipment and expertise for exploring the trails and fossil sites. Nearby, the vibrant city of Las Vegas offers a contrast of modern luxury and entertainment, while the surrounding landscape remains a serene and undisrupted natural treasure.
As the sun sets over Tule Springs, the shadows cast by the fossil beds tell a story of epochs past, inviting travelers to step into a world both ancient and awe-inspiring. This is a place where the lines between past and present blur, and the beauty of nature’s history comes alive.
- Area (mi²)
- 35
- Annual visitors
- 47 674
- Established year
- 2014
Top 3 Facts about Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
This area contains fossils spanning 100,000 to 12,500 years old, offering a continuous record of Ice Age creatures, including mammoths, lions, and camels, providing insights into prehistoric climate change and geologic history.
In this prehistoric landscape, mammoths, lions, and camels once roamed alongside dire wolves and bison. Today, it’s a haven for the Mojave Desert tortoise, burrowing owls, and golden eagles. Rare Las Vegas Bearpoppy flowers and Halfring Milkvetch thrive here, while kit foxes, coyotes, and bobcats inhabit the terrain. This urban oasis just outside Las Vegas offers trails for hiking and biking, set against a backdrop of spring-fed streams and unique flora and fauna.
In this arid yet historically rich landscape, water has sculpted the Upper Las Vegas Valley over 570,000 years, creating a unique ecosystem where fossils of Ice Age giants like mammoths and dire wolves are embedded in the earth. The area’s paleontological treasures are set against a backdrop of rare Las Vegas Bearpoppy flowers, adding a vibrant splash of color to the desert terrain. Here, trails for hiking, biking, and equestrian use weave through a landscape that was once a lush wetland, now a testament to prehistoric climate change.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Visit during spring for wildflower blooms. Plan a few hours to a day, bringing plenty of water and sunscreen. No visitor center or amenities; pack meals. Attend a ranger-led program for insights into the site’s paleontological significance. Park at the Aliante Loop trailhead.
Pack Appropriately
Pack breathable clothing, sturdy hiking boots, and layers for temperature swings. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and ample water. For camping, include a waterproof jacket, first-aid kit, and durable water containers. Check the season for additional gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, avoid feeding or approaching them. Stay on marked paths, keep pets leashed, and avoid trails at dawn and dusk when animals are most active. Respect local rules to preserve the unique flora and fauna. Carry out all trash and stay hydrated in the desert climate.
Stay Informed
Stay on marked trails, avoid ledges and water, and check weather conditions. Follow park signs and rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at 702-515-5350.
Seasons
In spring, from March to May, temperatures range from 60°F to 80°F, making it ideal for exploring. Witness the blooming of rare Las Vegas Bearpoppy flowers and enjoy mild weather, perfect for hiking and fossil spotting. No specific annual events are noted for this period.
Explore ancient fossils and desert flora in the scorching summer heat (100°F+). Join the Megafauna Walk & Talk in July, a guided hike through a landscape teeming with coyotes and rare bear-paw poppies. Be prepared for intense sun and limited amenities. Free admission.(units: Fahrenheit)
Visit in fall, when mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) and clear skies enhance hikes and bike trails. Enjoy spring and fall programming, including ranger-led events, amid the vibrant desert flora and ancient fossils. Ideal for a serene, immersive experience.
Visit from December to February for serene winter landscapes, temperatures ranging from the low 30s to low 70s Fahrenheit. Ideal for hiking, wildlife tracking, and ranger-led programs, this season offers tranquility and unique natural beauty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest city to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument is Las Vegas, Nevada. It is located less than 20 miles from the Las Vegas Strip.
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Dogs must be on a leash that is less than six feet long and under your physical control at all times. This rule applies to ensure the safety of the dogs, wildlife, and other visitors. Never leave your dog in a vehicle due to the risk of overheating.
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Parking is free at this site. There are parking areas available at the access points such as Durango Drive and Aliante Parkway.
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The most iconic sight is the panoramic view of the Mackinac Bridge, alongside the 15-station outdoor interpretive trail that tells the story of Father Jacques Marquette and the meeting of French and Native American cultures. The memorial is located on a rise overlooking the Straits of Mackinac.