Last updated: April 27, 2022
Thing to Do
See Fossils on Display
NPS/S. Lacy
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.
Details
Activity
Museum Exhibits
Pets Allowed
No
Leashed pets are allowed on the park road, in parking areas, and on paved walkways. Pets are not permitted on trails or inside the visitor center. Service dogs trained to assist visitors with disabilities may go wherever visitors are allowed.
Activity Fee
No
There are no fees charged to enter Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument or the fossil exhibits.
Location
Thousand Springs Visitor Center
Reservations
No
Accessibility Information
Mobility
- The Thousand Springs Visitor Center is newly constructed in 2022.
- There are accessible spaces in the parking area and paved, wheelchair-accessible sidewalks leading to the building.
- Doors in the building do not open automatically.
- Seating is available in front of the visitor center and on the back patio.
- Men's and women's restrooms each feature a large accessible stall.
- Two drinking fountains are placed at varying heights for easier reach.
- A lowered-height counter at the front desk is available for interactions with park staff.
Auditory and Visual
In 2022, our temporary fossil exhibits do not feature audio or video elements. Please ask park staff for assistance with accessibility needs during your visit.
Sensory
The visitor center does not ordinarily feature loud audio or bright or flashing lights, though the lobby and exhibit area may become overwhelming when crowded with visitors. For extra quiet and calm spaces, try exiting to the back patio and lawn area.