Waco Mammoth National Monument | Waco

Waco Mammoth National Monument is a nationally significant paleontological site and protected area located in Waco, Texas. It is part of the U.S. National Park System and managed in partnership with the City of Waco and Baylor University. The monument preserves the fossilized remains of a unique herd of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals, offering rare insights into the Pleistocene epoch.

Discovery and Excavation

The site was first discovered in 1978 when Paul Barron and Eddie Bufkin found a large bone while searching for fossils near the Bosque River. Baylor University scientists later identified it as a Columbian mammoth femur. This launched a series of excavations over the following decades.

Between 1978 and the early 2000s, more than 24 Columbian mammoths (Mammuthus columbi) were uncovered at the site. These mammoths are believed to have died around 65,000 years ago in a series of flash flood events. Among the fossils are:

A nursery herd of 16 females and juveniles, all found together and believed to have died in a single catastrophic event.

A large bull mammoth, found in a different sediment layer, indicating a separate death event.

A juvenile Western camel (Camelops hesternus), now extinct.

Remains of other Ice Age species such as saber-toothed cats, giant tortoises, alligator, and dwarf antelope.

This site is especially rare because of the number of mammoths found in close association and the excellent preservation of the fossils. It is the only recorded evidence of a nursery herd of Columbian mammoths in North America.

Monument Status

In 2015, President Barack Obama officially designated the site as Waco Mammoth National Monument under the Antiquities Act. It became the 408th unit of the National Park System.

Visitor Experience

Location:
6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive, Waco, Texas 76708

Hours:
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day

Guided Tours:
The Dig Shelter—where mammoth fossils are preserved in situ—is accessible only by guided tour. These tours are offered approximately every 30 minutes and last around 45–60 minutes. Trained guides provide detailed information about the animals found, the excavation process, and the Ice Age environment of central Texas.

Tour Prices:

Adults (18–61): $6.00

Seniors (62+), Military (with ID), Youth (4–17): $5.00

Children (3 and under): Free

Group Rate (20+ people): $4.00 per person

Note: Although this is a National Park Service site, federal passes (like America the Beautiful) are not accepted for entrance fees, as the fee structure is managed by the City of Waco.

Key Features

Dig Shelter:
A climate-controlled structure that protects and displays the fossils as they were found. Elevated walkways provide excellent views of the excavation site.

Interpretive Center:
Educational exhibits, multimedia presentations, and fossil replicas explain the Pleistocene epoch, Ice Age animals, and the excavation process.

Excavation Station:
A hands-on learning area for children and families, offering an interactive mock dig experience.

Trails and Grounds:
Visitors can explore scenic trails and picnic areas surrounding the site. Native Texas vegetation and wildlife are visible year-round.

Programs:
The Junior Ranger Program allows children to earn a badge by completing educational activities. Seasonal events and ranger-led programs are also offered.

Scientific Significance

The Waco Mammoth site has contributed significantly to our understanding of prehistoric megafauna in North America. The excellent preservation of so many individuals in a single event is rare and provides a unique snapshot of Pleistocene life and death.

Research at the site continues under the guidance of Baylor University and National Park Service scientists. No further excavations are currently planned unless non-invasive techniques (like ground-penetrating radar) reveal new fossil concentrations that warrant recovery.

Summary

Waco Mammoth National Monument is a scientifically and culturally rich site, combining education, conservation, and recreation. It is a unique window into Ice Age ecosystems and one of the best-preserved mammoth fossil sites in the world.