Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument, located in Nevada, is a unique and significant site that showcases a wealth of paleontological resources. Situated just north of Las Vegas, the monument covers an area of approximately 23,000 acres. It is overseen by the National Park Service and was designated as a national monument in 2014.

The historical background of Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument is rich and fascinating. The area was once a vast wetland, teeming with diverse animal life during the Pleistocene Epoch, around 200,000 to 10,000 years ago. Fossils discovered at the site include the remains of mammoths, camels, horses, ancient bison, and even giant ground sloths. These fossils provide valuable insights into the prehistoric ecosystem and contribute to our understanding of the region's natural history.

Visitors to Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument can enjoy a range of activities. One of the main attractions is the informative visitor center, where exhibits and displays educate visitors about the park's unique geology and its significance in preserving the remnants of ancient life. Additionally, guided tours and nature hikes are offered for those interested in exploring the area's fossil-rich landscape up-close.

In addition to the national monument, there are other attractions of interest in the vicinity. Just a short drive away is the nearby Las Vegas Strip, known for its countless entertainment options, world-class resorts, and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can also explore the stunning Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, where striking sandstone cliffs, hiking trails, and scenic overlooks await.

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument in Nevada offers a remarkable opportunity to delve into the distant past and discover the remnants of prehistoric life. With its informative visitor center, guided tours, and captivating fossil findings, it provides a unique educational experience for visitors. Combined with nearby attractions such as Las Vegas Strip and Red Rock Canyon, a trip to the area promises an exciting blend of natural wonders and modern entertainment.

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument is located within the state of Nevada, specifically in the southern part of the state. Situated about 20 miles northwest of downtown Las Vegas, this national monument boasts a unique geographical location within the Mojave Desert. It is nestled amidst the rolling hills and stunning desert landscapes, characterized by dry, arid conditions and sparse vegetation. The monument encompasses a vast area of approximately 22,650 acres, providing a haven for prehistoric fossilized remains and a diverse range of desert flora and fauna. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Sheep and Las Vegas Mountains, the Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument provides visitors with an extraordinary opportunity to explore the fascinating natural history of the region.

Address & Contact

Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
Durango & Moccasin Parking Area
Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument
Las Vegas, NV 89143
Driving Directions
Phone: 7022938853 (Information Line)
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument would be in the months of April, May, September, and October. During these months, the average maximum temperatures range from 80°F to 87°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 56°F to 65°F. The average monthly precipitation during these months is relatively low, ranging from 0.1 in to 0.37 in. These months offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities at the monument.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument are: Astronomy Stargazing Food Picnicking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Biking Road Biking Hiking Front-Country Hiking Horse Trekking Horseback Riding Mountain Biking

Topics

Learn about these topics at Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument: Animals Birds Geology Groundwater Arts Native American Heritage Transportation Tortoises and Turtles Fossils and Paleontology Rock Landscapes and Features Trails Unique Species Explorers and Expeditions Military Photography Science, Technology and Innovation Climate Change Scenic Views Monuments and Memorials Rare Dunes US Air Force (Army Air Corps) Trains and Railroads

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

The Visitor Center offers an introduction on the people who built the dwellings 700 years ago. Artifacts and replicas of pottery and textiles are on display in the museum while the park store, operated by Western National Parks Association, sells educational items. The 20-minute park movie, located on the upstairs viewing platform, shows on demand throughout the day. Ask park staff for accessible movie options.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Tule Springs Fossil Beds National Monument

Hampton Inn Las Vegas

With a stay at Hampton Inn Las Vegas in Las Vegas (Summerlin), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Mountain View Hospital and Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and express check-in. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7100 Cascade Valley Ct, Las Vegas, Nevada 89128
Web: Link

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Summerlin Tech

With a stay at La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Las Vegas Summerlin Tech in Las Vegas (Summerlin), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Mountain View Hospital and Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7101 Cascade Valley Ct, Las Vegas, Nevada 89128
Web: Link

Santa Fe Station Hotel & Casino

Located in Las Vegas (Centennial Hills), Santa Fe Station Hotel & Casino is within a 10-minute drive of Mountain View Hospital and Durango Hills Golf Club. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Free valet parking is available onsite.
Address: 4949 N Rancho Dr, Las Vegas, Nevada 89130
Web: Link

Sonesta Select Las Vegas

Located in Las Vegas, Sonesta Select Las Vegas is in the suburbs, within a 5-minute drive of Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix and Mountain View Hospital. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. This hotel has 3 meeting rooms available for events. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1901 N Rainbow Blvd, Las Vegas, Nevada 89108
Web: Link

Aliante Casino & Hotel

With a stay at Aliante Casino & Hotel in North Las Vegas (Aliante Sun City), you'll be a 2-minute drive from Aliante Station Casino + Hotel and 10 minutes from Casino at the Santa Fe Hotel. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, express check-out, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Planning an event in North Las Vegas? This resort has facilities measuring 14000 square feet (1301 square meters), including a conference center.
Address: 7300 Aliante Parkway, North Las Vegas, Nevada 89084
Web: Link

Jewel Estates - Golf Cribs

Located in Las Vegas, this vacation home is a 3-minute drive from Floyd Lamb State Park and 5 minutes from Centennial Hills Hospital Medical Center.
Address: 8816 Tierra Hope Court, Tule Springs, Nevada 89143
Web: Link

Beautiful Townhome with Pool

With a stay at this apartment in Las Vegas (Summerlin), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Darling Tennis Center and Casino at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1342 silver sierra st, Las Vegas, Nevada 89128
Web: Link

Welcome House Las Vegas

With a stay at Welcome House Las Vegas in Las Vegas (Centennial Hills), you'll be a 4-minute drive from Centennial Hills Hospital Medical Center and 6 minutes from Floyd Lamb State Park. Featured amenities include a computer station, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7445 Wandering St, Tule Springs, Nevada 89131
Web: Link

Advantage Court

Located in Las Vegas, Advantage Court is a 5-minute drive from Mountain View Hospital and 6 minutes from Las Vegas Mini Grand Prix. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 7609 Advantage Ct, Las Vegas, Nevada 89129
Web: Link

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Las Vegas Northwest

With a stay at Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Las Vegas Northwest in Las Vegas (Centennial Hills), you'll be a 3-minute drive from Santa Fe Station Hotel Casino and 6 minutes from Mountain View Hospital. Featured amenities include a business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 5701 SKY POINTE DRIVE, Tule Springs, Nevada 89130
Web: Link