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Fossils and much, much more.

During the 1890s, scientists rediscovered what the Lakota Sioux already knew - bones preserved in one of the most complete Miocene mammal sites in the world.

Yet, this place called "Agate" is a landscape that reflects many players – from early animals roaming the valleys and hills, to tribal nations calling the High Plains home, to explorers passing through or settling in the American West.

 
Springtime and baby calves

Springtime and calves

This is the season of "calving" in the ranch country surrounding Agate Fossil Beds National Monument.  In many of the pastures you can see baby calves with their mothers, playing, eating, lying in the sun.  The temperatures can still be cold and the snow may fall but these babies are a sure sign that warmer weather is on the way.
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Dinohyus in visitor center diorama

Things To Do

National Park Week   April 17th - April 25th

Entrance fees will be waived during National Park Week providing a wonderful opportunity for all Americans to visit their parks.

Agate offers a wide variety of activities for its visitors. From the dramatic displays to the breath-taking trails - there's something for everyone.

Kids--ask about our Junior Ranger Program.  Junior Ranger Day is Saturday, April 24th.

The weather in Western Nebraska can bring highs of 70 degrees or snow during the springtime. The trails are always open from dawn till dusk. Birds such as the Western Meadowlark, Red-Winged Blackbird, and American Robin have returned to the area. You may also see Canada Geese headed north.
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Take the Fossil Freeway.

The Fossil Freeway

Within a relatively short distance in Western Nebraska and South Dakota lie a large variety of different fossil discoveries preserved in several visitor centers. Here you will find preserved the story of ancient rhinos, mammoths, and other long extinct beasts spanning several million years, most of them after the dinosaurs. Come travel the "Fossil Freeway" and get acquainted with the deep history of North America's High Plains!

Website: www.fossilfreeway.net

 
smoke and flames during 2009 prescribed burn

Spring Burn

During the month of April, visitors may see smoke and flames at Agate Fossil Beds. The Northern Great Plains Fire Management team along with Agate Staff and the Harrison Volunteer Fire Department will be conducting a prescribed burn. This burn called the North Carnegie Burn will focus on the area directly around the visitor center and park housing to the north and east boundaries. The first step will be to mow and blackline the perimeter and then the interior will be burned. The timing depends upon the weather conditions. The goal of the burn is to reduce excess dry fuels, help control non-native plants and rejuvenate the natural prairie plants. 

Please be cautious if you see smoke and be aware of signs and fire personal.

 

Write to

301 River Road
Harrison, NE 69346

Phone

Visitor Center and Museum
(308) 436-9760

Fax

(308) 668-2318

Climate

Agate is generally sunny and dry in the summer, with occasional afternoon thundershowers, and windy and cold in the winter. Wear comfortable clothing appropriate to the season. Hats are useful against exposure to the sun. Good walking shoes are recommended for use on the hiking trails.
Communities Surrounding Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Note: The times listed below are approximate driving times to the park.
Harrison, NE (26 min. ) Pop. 279
Van Tassell, WY (40 min. ) Pop. 18
Mitchell, NE (41 min. ) Pop. 1,831
Marsland, NE (45 min. )
Morrill, NE (49 min. ) Pop. 957
 Crawford, NE (57 min. ) Pop. 1,107
Torrington, WY (1 hr.  8 min. ) Pop. 5,776
Lingle, WY (1 hr.  20 min. ) Pop. 510
Jay Em, WY (1 hr.  30 min. )