Take a step back to the Ice Age at The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs. Located in southwestern South Dakota, this museum has the largest concentration of mammoth fossils in the world. In 1974, a contractor working on the property made the original discovery of mammoth bones. Now this 41,000-square-foot mammoth research center is recognized world-wide for its interpretation and exhibits. The museum contains the remains of 61 mammoths, and possibly dozens more undiscovered!
Visit
The museum is an active archaeological dig, but you don’t have to brave the elements to experience it. The dig has been enclosed in a climate-controlled building that is open daily, year-round. With paid admission, your journey begins by watching a 10-minute video that provides an introduction for your 30-minute guided tour of the actual fossil bed. The bones have been uncovered, but they have left them in the position they were found. This gives you a glimpse of their final resting place in this ancient sinkhole.
After the tour, you can explore the Exhibit Hall on your own to learn more about the mammoths. You will see replica skeletons and hands-on interpretive displays (great for kids!). You can also visit the Laboratory where the fossils are prepared to watch the scientists at work. Prepare to spend at least an hour and a half on your visit to get the full experience.
Special Programs
In the summer, there are some unique programs for your children during their visit if they are particularly interested in paleontology. These programs are held daily from June 1 to August 15 and require prior participation in the 30-minute tour.
The Junior Paleontology Program is a one-hour program for children ages 4-12. They will dig for and learn to identify replica fossils. Participants will go home with a fossil identification book and a certificate of completion.
The Advanced Paleontology Program is for children 10 and over. It includes a more extensive mock excavation based on discoveries made in the actual bonebed.
Don’t miss the museum that USA Today named #1 in South Dakota!
Bonus: If you want to check-off a few more cool attractions while in the Hot Springs, SD area, consider visiting the Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary, or Wind Cave National Park. They are both within a 30-minute drive from the Mammoth Site. After visiting Wind Cave, spend some time in Custer, SD; one of our favorite small towns.
The Mammoth Site of Hot Springs
1800 US 18 Bypass
PO Box 692
Hot Springs, South Dakota 57747
