If you’re intrigued by prehistoric life or rare geological events, make time to visit Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park in northeastern Nebraska. Operated by the University of Nebraska State Museum, this one-of-a-kind fossil site preserves the aftermath of a supervolcano eruption that occurred 12 million years ago—creating a perfectly fossilized time capsule of Miocene-era wildlife. It’s an unforgettable mix of science, nature, and history that’s especially rewarding for families, students, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Recommended For

Plan a trip if you’re interested in:

  • Paleontology and rare fossil finds
  • Volcanic history and its impact on ecosystems
  • Educational day trips with guided tours and interactive learning
  • Scenic nature walks and outdoor recreation in Nebraska

The Bruneau-Jarbidge Event

  • This massive volcanic eruption in present-day Idaho sent ash over 1,000 miles east to Nebraska.
  • The ash blanketed ancient savannah grasslands, resulting in the preservation of animals like the prehistoric Teleoceras (an early rhinoceros).
  • Over weeks, glassy ash ingested during grazing led to the mass death of herbivores, whose remains were preserved in place.

Discovery & Preservation

  • The site was discovered in 1971 by paleontologist Michael Voorhies.
  • Designated a Nebraska State Historical Park in 1991 and a National Natural Landmark in 2006.

What You’ll See

  • Fossils of 17 species including:
    • Teleoceras (rhinos)
    • Early horses like Protohippus and Pliohippus
    • Prehistoric deer, camels, dogs, cranes, hawks, and turtles
  • Over 200 skeletons from the Clarendonian Land Mammal Age
  • “Rhino Barn” exhibits with in-situ fossil skeletons in excavation

What Makes It Special?

  • It’s one of the world’s best examples of a lagerstätten site—where fossil preservation is unusually complete and undisturbed.
  • Delicate remains of birds, turtles, and even stomach contents of animals have been preserved thanks to the ash layer and erosion-resistant sandstone caprock.

Visitor Experience

  • Open May through October – Entry requires a valid Nebraska Park Permit
  • Visitor Center: Interpretive displays, eruption history, and fossil education
  • Hubbard Rhino Barn: Watch paleontologists at work and explore real excavation areas
  • Walkways and Viewing Decks: Up-close looks at active dig sites and fossil beds

Recreation & Accessibility

  • Nature trails highlight the area’s geology and ecology
  • Picnic areas available for day visitors
  • Camping nearby at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area
  • Fully wheelchair accessible facilities

Guided Tours

  • Available April through October for schools and groups (max 45 people)
  • Advance reservations are required
  • Tours last about one hour and include a full site orientation and fossil bed overview

Location

  • Set on 360 acres of prairie in the Verdigre Creek Valley, Antelope County

Contact Information

  • Address: 86930 517th Ave, Royal, NE 68773
  • Phone: 402-893-2000
  • Website: ashfall.unl.edu

Plan your journey back in time at Ashfall Fossil Beds today

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