Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
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The lovely prairies and hills of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument look serene, but they've been home to some of history's most fascinating creatures. Millions of years ago during the Miocene Epoch, ancient animals including bear dogs, small camels, and pony-sized North American rhinos roamed the plains. Learn about these bizarre critters during your visit, and discover the culture of the Lakota Sioux and the rancher James H. Cook. After a trip to the fascinating visitor center, head out onto the hiking trails to explore the dig sites—you can even see fossils in the earth and a devil's corkscrew spiral burrow created by the dry-land ancestor of a modern beaver. You'll need to get off the beaten path to reach this site in northwestern Nebraska, but the light crowd levels and remarkable history ensure a memorable visit.
RV Parks & Campgrounds Near Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument sits in the Niobrara River Valley, a remote part of northwestern Nebraska. If you're seeking a relaxing escape, this lightly populated region is an ideal RV camping destination. Rent an RV through RVshare, and you'll enjoy panoramic views of the gentle hills and waving prairie grasses in comfort.
RV Rentals Near Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Things To Do Near Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is a relatively small site; you can explore it easily in an afternoon. Don't miss the visitor center—it introduces you to the long-extinct animals that once roamed free. There are two local trails in the park itself and plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife-watching within a two-hour drive.
Hiking Trails
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Daemonelix Trail
Located on the west side of the monument, the Daemonelix Trail offers a glimpse at some of the region's most unusual formations: the spiral burrows (Daemonelix) made by the palaeocastor, an ancient relative of the beaver. Today, the Daemonelix are petrified, giving you a clear view of the unique construction. The trail also passes by ancient sand dunes. It's a quick, easy hike that's ideal for kids and families.
Location
River Road and State Highway 29
Length
1 Mile
Intensity
Easy
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Fossil Hills Trail
Explore the wild Nebraska hills on the Fossil Hills Trail. It crosses through multiple ecosystems, including the Niobrara River wetlands, the prairies, and the fossil-rich hills. As you hike into the hills, check out the quarries where the first archaeologists and paleontologists dug for the monument's distinctive fossils. This trail is paved and is easily accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
Location
Visitor Center 301 River Road Harrison, NE
Length
2.7 Miles
Intensity
Easy
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Harold J. Cook's Homestead Cabin Trail
If you have a bit of extra time, take the Fossil Hills Trail to a secondary dirt trail that leads to the homestead cabin once used by Harold J. Cook. Originally used as a residence in the early 1900s, the spot later became the home for visiting paleontologists and scientists—hence its nickname, the "Bone Cabin." The cabin was restored, so it currently looks as it did during its homestead years.
Location
Fossil Hills Trail
Length
1 Mile
Intensity
Easy
Sightseeing
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Agate Fossil Beds National Monument Visitor Center
No trip to the Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is complete without a stop in the excellent visitor center. Here, a series of interpretive exhibits tells the history of the site, showing artists' renderings of the local prehistoric animals and explaining the relationship between the ranchers and the Native Americans in the area. The James H. Cook Collection contains an impressive selection of Oglala Lakota clothing, tools, and weapons. Learn about the discovery of the fossils and find out about the excavations that happened in the early 1900s. The Agate Fossil Beds National Monument visitor center plays a movie frequently throughout the day; it's a great opportunity to see historic photos and take a break before your hike to the fossil quarries.
Location
301 River Road, Harrison, NE 69346
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Fort Robinson State Park
Fort Robinson State Park is home to some of Nebraska's most spectacular scenery—rocky ridges rise from tree-studded hills, all reflected in the calm waters of Soldier Creek. Whether you come for the beautiful views or the horseback riding, hiking, and buffalo-watching opportunities, this park is a lovely way to spend a day. You can also explore the reconstructed buildings of Fort Robinson.
Location
Soldier Creek Rd & US Hwy 20, Crawford, NE 69339
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Peterson Wildlife Management Area
If you're interested in seeing bighorn sheep in the wild, head for the Peterson Wildlife Management Area. While you're there, keep an eye out for prairie dogs, owls, and wild turkeys.
Location
Harrison, NE 69346
Museums
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Location
Nearby Shops and Restaurants
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Longhorn Saloon Bar and Grill
Whether you're in the mood for a massive steak or a simple burger and fries, the Longhorn Saloon Bar and Grill has the perfect entrée. The food is good, but the Wild West saloon exterior alone is worth a visit.
Location
168 Main St, Harrison, NE 69346
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Staabs Drive Inn
You'll feel like you've stepped back in time at Staabs Drive Inn, a friendly little spot in Crawford. Grab an ice cream cone, or pick up a burger, broasted chicken, and a few delicious deep-fried sides.
Location
110 McPherson St, Crawford, NE 69339
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Runza Restaurant
Stop at Runza Restaurant on your way in to or from Agate Fossil Beds National Monument to try a Nebraska specialty: the runza, a pocket-style sandwich with fluffy yeast bread and a variety of filling options. Make sure to grab an order of Frings, which is a mixture of French fries and onion rings.
Location
1250 13th St, Gering, NE 69341
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Whiteaker's Store
Pick up a cowboy hat or another piece of Western gear at Whiteaker's Store, which sits 25 miles north of the monument. With its wide selection and friendly staff, it's a pleasant stop on your journey.
Location
265 Main St, Harrison, NE 69346
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Prairie Agate Rock Shop
If you're interested in gems and minerals, don't miss a visit to the Prairie Agate Rock Shop. In addition to the rocks for sale, you can check out an interesting collection of fossils and rare stones.
Location
3591 Crazy Horse Memorial Hwy, Crawford, NE 69339
How To Get To Agate Fossil Beds National Monument
State Highway 29 runs just east of Agate Fossil Beds National Monument. From the north, take Highway 20 to Harrison, and turn south on State Highway 29. If you're coming in from the south, take Highway 26 to Mitchell and turn north on State Highway 29.
Address
301 River Road, Harrison, NE 69346
Fee: Entry Fee (Per Person)
There is no entry fee.
If you're interested in the fascinating natural history of the United States, Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is a must-visit destination. Here, you can see the fossils left by the unusual ancient creatures that walked the same hills millions of years ago. Bring an RV and stay awhile—a motorhome is a great way to experience the peaceful Nebraska landscape.
