See fossils on display and learn about Hagerman's contributions to the science of paleontology!
Hagerman Fossil Beds is one of the world's richest sites for Pliocene fossils. Thousands of fossils excavated from the site reveal a time, 4 to 3 million years ago, when Hagerman looked quite different from the scrub and farmland of today. Along the shore of vast and ancient Lake Idaho, lush grassland, woodland, and wetland provided habitat for a diverse array of animal species. Some, like ground sloths, saber-toothed cats, and mastodons, were quite unlike anything found in Idaho today. Others, like beavers, horses, and waterfowl, were not too different from their living relatives.
The visitor center is the only place to view fossils at the monument. Due to their hazardous location, the fossil beds are not accessible to the public.
Directions: The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is located about 1 mile (1.6 km) north of the town of Hagerman, on Highway 30. Take Highway 30 northwest from the city of Twin Falls (38 mi/61km), or drive I-84, using Exits 141 or 155.
Be sure to check regular operating hours before your visit.
Visitor Services: The visitor center provides restrooms, drinking water, maps, passport stamps, gifts, visitor information, and ranger talks. Groceries, restaurants, camping, and lodging are available in the town of Hagerman.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
