Fossil Butte National Monument

Fossils on the Ridge

Knightia eocaena, the most abundant vertebrate fossil in the world, lies exposed near cliff face.

Picnic Table and Tent Pad

Fossil Butte National Monument

Some of the world's best preserved fossils are found in the flat-topped ridges of southwestern Wyoming's cold sagebrush desert. Fossilized fishes, insects, plants, reptiles, birds, and mammals are exceptional for their abundance, variety, and detail of preservation. Most remarkable is the story they tell of ancient life in the warm, wet environment in and around a freshwater lake.

Moonrise Over Fossil Butte

Fossil Butte is the most noticeable landmark of the park and where the monument got its name.

Cockerellites liops, a Common Fossil Fish

Fossils from the Green River Formation are known for their excellent preservation, abundance, and diversity. Cockerellites liops is one of the common fishes found here.

Palm Frond

Fossil palm fronds and other plants indicate a climate similar to the Gulf Coast states.

The Limestone Ridges, Remnants of Ancient Fossil Lake, Contrast the Green, Early Summer Landscape.

Early Summer Beauty in the High Desert of Southwestern Wyoming

Visitor Center

The visitor center is nestled in a sagebrush landscape beneath Fossil Butte. Over 300 fossils are on exhibit.

Picnic Table and Tent Pad

Drive Way

Picnic Table

RecAreaDirections

By car: Travel 9 miles west of Kemmerer, Wyoming on U.S. Highway 30. There is a highway sign near mile post 44; turn right onto Lincoln County Road 300. The Historic Quarry Trail is approximately 1/2 mile on the right. Continue west on County Road 300 for approximately 1.5 miles to Chicken Creek Road which provides access to the visitor center, scenic drive, Nature Trail and picnic area.

Closest airports: Rock Springs, Wyoming (130 miles); Salt Lake City, Utah (150 miles).

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Facilities

Fossil Butte Visitor Center Facility

Over 400 fossils are on exhibit. Video programs feature what scientists have learned from the fossils and the rocks they're found in, and how fossils are excavated and prepared. Visitor Center hours vary by the season.

Recreation Areas and Campground Database