Over 300 million years ago, Payson and the surrounding area was completely underwater. Limestone deposits from that era still remain, and in them are millions of fossilized seashells, coral, and aquatic creatures. Known as The Paleo Site, this incredible place is frozen in a time before dinosaurs walked the earth. Admission is completely free – and whatever treasures you find are yours to keep!
The Indian Gardens Paleo Site is located 13 miles east of Payson on Highway 260, just before the Kohl’s Ranch turnoff. Very clear signage points straight to the parking area, making it nearly impossible to miss.
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No fancy tools are required - a simple hammer and plastic bag work just fine. To find the most fossils, look for a red rock wall about halfway up the hill.
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Fossils of seashells, kelp, and aquatic creatures are the majority of what you’ll find since this area was once underwater. Although there aren’t any dinosaurs or other complex vertebrates, the sheer amount of fossils here definitely makes up for the lack of variety.
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Whether for a science project or simply a fun and educational weekend day trip, kids and adult alike will have an absolute blast playing paleontologist. Kids’ keen eyesight also helps to spot hidden discoveries!
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Wear closed-toed, sensible shoes, as it’s a rather steep climb up to the areas with the most highly-concentrated fossil beds.
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You’ll also want to pack a lunch or several snacks because there are no restaurants for miles around. Don’t forget to bring water as well!
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Just in case you miss the sign, you’ll find the parking lot between mile markers 267 and 268 on Highway 260 east of Payson.
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Have you ever dug for fossils at the Indian Gardens Paleo Site? Are there any other prehistoric finds in Arizona? These mammoth footprints are pretty awe-inspiring.
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