McAbee Fossil Beds

The McAbee Fossil Beds are made up of shallow lake sediments which were laid down approximately 50.2 million years ago (Eocene age). Over 50 plant varieties have been found, including over 40 Broadleaves and 17 Conifer species. Sassafras, katsura and both Ginkgo varieties are also present. Countless insect species can be found such as tiny flies, wasps, leafhoppers, etc. The fish Eohiodon (Mooneye), cones, flowers and even a few feathers also can be found.

The McAbee Fossil Beds are both fun and educational. Imagine digging through millions of year-old fossils. Each time you discover a fossil, you might be finding something new about history. Each year, significant finds are discovered at McAbee which tell us more and more about the history of living things on Earth.

The guided day tours provide visitors the unique opportunity to find their own fossils. Visitors have access to approximately a 400 yard long outcropping of 50.2 million year old lake sediment.

The McAbee Fossil Beds are accessible from May - October. There is an on-site guide daily from 9:00 - 4:00 during the high season in July/August. Please call ahead to book your tour during the shoulder season. Bus tours are welcome; however, they need to be pre-booked.

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