One of the things we like best about Badlands National Park in South Dakota is that visitors aren’t restricted to the trails. You can basically roam anywhere. And, while you’re exploring, be sure to keep an eye out for fossils.
Badlands Fossil Hunting
Many types of fossils can be found in Badlands National Park. Previous finds include sea creatures, mammals, birds, reptiles, and of course, plants.
Where can you find fossils in the badlands? Just about anywhere. In fact, fossils have been found in this area for centuries.
We found a few fossils during our visit. It’s not impossible to find them, but it isn’t easy either. It takes a sharp eye and patience. The fossils we found were visible on the surface.
As you might expect, if you find a fossil, you don’t get to keep it. Leave it where it is, and report it. The parks service has a form that visitors can use to report their finds.
Even if you don’t find a fossil, you can check out the work in the Fossil Preparation Lab in the Visitor Center.
Whether your a budding paleontologist or just having fun, Badlands National Park is a great place to get off the beaten path and hunt for fossils. Whether or not you find fossils, I’m sure you’ll enjoy new discoveries, both big and small.
Heading to the Badlands? Check out these other posts:
- Badlands Sage Creek Rim Road
- Awesome Easy Badlands Hike: Fossil Exhibit Trail
- Badlands National Park Must-See
- Tip & Tee: Badlands Cedar Pass Lodge
- Tip & Tee: Badlands Park Night Sky
- Fun Fact: Badlands National Park Fossil Finds
- The Badlands Notch Trail
- Tip & Tee: Badlands National Park
Need more info on South Dakota travel? Check out my South Dakota page.
