Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
National Monument · Nevada

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Photo: National Park Service · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

Tule Springs protects desert washes in the Upper Las Vegas Valley where fossils of Columbian mammoths, ancient camels and other Ice Age animals have been found. It is still a young monument with no visitor center, shade, water or restrooms on site, so most visitors walk its informal paths or join a ranger program. For exhibits, visit nearby Ice Age Fossils State Park first.

Good to know

Tickets
Free. There is no entrance fee.
Time needed
1 to 2 hours for a walk, or longer with a ranger program.
Best time
October to April. Summer temperatures are dangerously hot.
Getting there
The monument is on the northwest edge of Las Vegas along US 95. Harry Reid International Airport is about 30 minutes away by car.

Where to stay nearby

Gateway towns with hotels and food, close to the park entrances:
Las Vegas, Nevada
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Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument questions

Is there a visitor center at Tule Springs Fossil Beds?

No, there is no visitor center or restrooms yet. Nearby Ice Age Fossils State Park has exhibits and facilities.

Can you see fossils at Tule Springs?

Fossils in the ground are fragile and protected, so you may not find any on a casual walk. Ranger programs and the state park are the best way to see them.

Is Tule Springs safe to visit in summer?

It is extremely hot with no shade or water on site. Go early in the morning, carry plenty of water or visit between fall and spring.

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