Welcome to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center

Conservation Education for Families, Visitors, and Groups

Ongoing Programs

Discovery after Dark

Discover nocturnal animal adaptations, how animals use the night sky, Native American stories, and more, all through interactive learning experiences! Go on a guided after-dark adventure that will feature both the exotic and native nocturnal wildlife at Fossil Rim. 6:00pm - 9:00pm at the Eco Center, once a month, March-October, on the Friday closest to the full moon. $45 per person – includes admission to the scenic drive-through which can be used the day of Discovery after Dark or the morning after (before 10:00am). Recommended for ages 5 to adult. Reservations are required. To register, or for more information, call 254-897-2960 ext. 312 or email info@fossilrim.org.

Animal Encounters

Each month highlights a different animal. Giraffes, cheetahs, wolves, and more! Check our calendar of events for this month’s feature animal. Encounters will include a short educational presentation about the focus animal, as well as hands-on activities, such as crafts, stories, and games. Then, we’ll go on a short guided tour to visit the animal star of the month. Recommended for ages 5-9. 2:00pm - 4:00pm at the Eco Center on the second Sunday of each month. Cost is $10 per person. Reservations are required. To register, or for more information, call 254-897-2960 ext. 312 or email info@fossilrim.org.

Discovery After Dark at Fossil Rim

“Thanks so much for the animals after dark education tour. My son, Roger, had a blast!!!! This was our first trip to Fossil Rim and was in celebration of Roger's kindergarten graduation that day. Roger says to tell you, "Big Cow [the giraffe] was AWESOME. I like Big Cow. She was the best animal in the park. Cheetahs were the second best animals. I like the Nocturnal Tour and the breakfast [at the Safari Camp Pavilion] the best."” – Amy Jahnel, “Discovery after Dark” participant

Cheetah Encounter Craft Table

“The cheetah encounter was a wonderful experience for the whole family. Our educator and guide, Mary Lou Felch, was informative, very knowledgeable, and entertaining. We recommend this to all!” – “Cheetah Encounter” Fee-Based Program participant

New Programs

Nature Detectives

What animals have been here? Who made that track? What plant did this leaf come from? Learn to use clues from nature to solve mysteries in the great outdoors. Through this new education program, young children can begin to develop perceptual awareness of the natural world and an environmental ethic, which will hopefully someday become their foundation for positive environmental behavior. Starting with a matching game, little Detectives will have the opportunity to match plant and animal clues – such as feathers, seeds, and tracks – with the mystery plant or animal that left them behind. This will help each Nature Detective learn about native plants and animals in a fun way. Nature Detectives will also have a chance to make two different crafts using materials from nature. We’ll discuss outdoor safety, such as plants and animals to avoid and how to be a safe hiker. We’ll also go on a short hike and the Detectives will see if they can find all of the things in their Clue Books. A wonderful introduction to all the mysteries in the world around us! Recommended for ages 4-6. 2-hour session. Cost is $10 per person. To find out when this program will be offered again, please visit our calendar of events.

Drawing on Nature

Deepen your understanding and appreciation of the natural world through the art of nature journaling. Whether you’re a seasoned artist, or a budding nature enthusiast, this two-session education program is perfect for you. You’ll have a chance to make your own travel nature journal. Both sessions will include tips for successful nature journaling as well as guided tours to a few of the best viewing areas at Fossil Rim, so that you’ll have plenty of time to sketch and write about your favorite animals. Recommended for ages 12-16. Two 3-hour sessions. Cost is $40 per person and includes attendance at both sessions. To find out when this program will be offered again, please visit our calendar of events.

Group Programs

Looking for something special to do for your family reunion, school group, or church group? Schedule a private education program for your own group! Most education programs are now available to private groups of 10 or more. Contact us at 254-897-2960 ext. 207 or email marylouf@fossilrim.org for prices, availability, and more information.

Free Visitor Events

Join us at the Overlook or the Visitor Center for Family Fun Days on selected weekends. Special activities will vary, but may include crafts, touch tables, games, animal displays, guided hikes, and other hands-on fun for the whole family. Please visit our calendar of events for upcoming events.

Reservation info:
For reservations and information,
please call 254-897-2960 ext. 312
or e-mail info@fossilrim.org.

All education programs require reservations at least 48 hours in advance. Early registration is recommended as space may be limited. A credit card is required at the time of booking in order to hold your reservation. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and debit cards. Any cancellations must be made at least 24 hours before the scheduled program, as payment is due at that time. Reservations can be made Monday-Friday, 8:00-5:00. Fossil Rim Members will receive a 10% discount on all education programs.

All education programs require a minimum of 10 participants. Programs with fewer than 10 registrants may be cancelled within 48 hours of the event.