Agate Fossil Beds National Monument (U.S. National Park Service)

QUICKLINKS:

Fossils and much, much more.

During the 1890s, scientists rediscovered what the Lakota Sioux already knew - bones preserved in one of the most complete Miocene mammal sites in the world.

Yet, this place called "Agate" is a landscape that reflects many players – from early animals roaming the valleys and hills, to tribal nations calling the High Plains home, to explorers passing through or settling in the American West.

		Artists-In-Residence Program Each summer, the staff at Agate continue the legacy of rancher James Cook by inviting American Indian artists back to the Niobrara Valley. In the past, artists have brought skills handed down to them such as creating beautiful bead and quill work, hide paintings, ledger art and decorated gourds. more...

		Things To Do Agate offers a wide variety of activities for its visitors. From the dramatic displays to the breath-taking trails - there's something for everyone. more...

Wildland firefighter ready for a prescribed burn at Agate Fossil Beds.

Prescribed Burn Planned

Agate Fossil Beds National Monument is planning a prescribed burn during the last two weeks of April as the weather forecast and local conditions permit. The burn will occur in the area known as the Carnegie Unit at the east end of the monument and consists of some 650 acres. It is expected the operation will require 2 days to complete as a black line will be created on the perimeter to act as a buffer for the burn. Crews from the National Park Service Northern Great Plains Fire Management Area and the Harrison Volunteer Fire Department will be working together on this burn.
more...

		What's going on? The early spring snows and rain that Agate Fossil Beds will start the wildflowers earlier this year and to get in the mood for wildflower identification there is a "Plant Box" in the visitor center with pressed plants, dates of blooming and descriptions. Perfect weather for walking the trails is expected. more...

Write to

301 River Road
Harrison, NE 69346

E-mail Us

Phone

Visitor Center and Museum
(308) 668-2211

Fax

(308) 668-2318

Climate

Agate is generally sunny and dry in the summer, with occasional afternoon thundershowers, and windy and cold in the winter. Wear comfortable clothing appropriate to the season. Hats are useful against exposure to the sun. Good walking shoes are recommended for use on the hiking trails.