Standing as tall as 14 feet and weighing 20,000 pounds, Columbian mammoths roamed across what is present-day Texas thousands of years ago. Today, the fossil specimens represent the nation's first and only recorded evidence of a nursery herd of ice age Columbian mammoths.
Waco Mammoth National Monument sits within 100 acres of wooded parkland along the Bosque River. Surrounded by oak, mesquite and cedar trees, the site offers an escape from the modern world and provides a glimpse into the lives and habitat of Columbian mammoths and other Ice Age animals.
This newer unit of the National Park System is managed in partnership by the National Park Service, the City of Waco, and Baylor University. The public is welcome anytime during regular operating hours. Start your visit at the Welcome Center located at 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive.
Source: Waco Mammoth National Monument
Tour Information
Guided tours are conducted every 30 minutes, so just show up and join the fun, no reservation needed! Tours last from 45 minutes to one hour. A small tour fee does apply.
Tour guides will lead you from the Welcome Center, down a 300 yard paved path to the Dig Shelter where mammoth fossils are in situ (still in their original position within the bone bed). During your tour, you will learn about the Ice Age, how the fossils were discovered, and why this site is one of the most important paleontological finds in North America.
Special Use Permits for Activities in Waco Mammoth National Monument
The National Park Service may require a special use permit for certain activities to occur in Waco Mammoth National Monument. These include organized gatherings like weddings or church services, public assemblies and demonstrations, special events, filming and some commercial activities like commercial travel or still photography. A special park use is defined as a short-term activity that takes place in a park area, and that:
Provides a benefit to an individual, group or organization, rather than the public at large.
Requires written authorization and some degree of management control from the NPS in order to protect park resources and the public interest.
Is not prohibited by law or regulation.
Is neither initiated, sponsored, nor conducted by the NPS.
Permits will not be approved if the proposed activity does the following:
Conflict with law or policy.
Results in derogation of the values and purposes of the park.
Results in a threat to public safety or property.
Interferes with normal park operations, programs, special events, visitor use, or resource protection.
How to Apply
A non-refundable application fee is required for your activity to be considered. Applications with payment (if applicable) must be submitted at least 30 days in advance depending on the time of year. Complex uses or activities may need additional time. Please review the following applications and determine which version suits your request. If you are unsure of which application to use, contact the Special Park Use Coordinator.