About Garden Park Fossil Area
Fossils of well-known species of large dinosaurs have been discovered at this site over the last 120 years. Many of the dinosaur fossils discovered at this site are on exhibit at museums around the country, including the Denver Museum of Natural History, and the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C.Fossils of two-legged, plant-eating dinosaurs, dinosaur eggs, and dinosaur tracks have also been discovered in the Garden Park Fossil Area. In addition to dinosaur bones, Garden Park contains 2 significant, rare plant species, Brandegee wild buckwheat and inch milkweed.Garden Park is a BLM Area of Critical Environmental Concern, a Colorado Research Natural Area, and a National Natural Landmark. For more information, please contact the Royal Gorge Field Office.Remember your OUTDOOR ETHICS when enjoying your public lands. Please RECREATE RESPONSIBLY.Need a map? Gold Belt Tour Scenic and Historic Byway
How to Get There
From Caсon City, go about 6 miles north on Shelf Road. This is part of the Gold Belt Back Country Scenic Byway. There are 2 small pull-outs with marked interpretive signs.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Garden Park Fossil Area
Heading to Garden Park Fossil Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Garden Park Fossil Area?
No central reservation system listed for Garden Park Fossil Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/1163) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Garden Park Fossil Area?
From Caсon City, go about 6 miles north on Shelf Road. This is part of the Gold Belt Back Country Scenic Byway. There are 2 small pull-outs with marked interpretive signs.
How do I contact Garden Park Fossil Area?
You can reach the park at phone: 719-269-8500 or email: blm_co_rg_visitorinfo@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
