Iowa’s history is all around us, if you know where to look! Discover one of the most incredible places in the Hawkeye State where you can hike for miles and discover prehistoric fossils that date back more than 350 million years. The Fossil and Prairie Center in Rockford is a Midwestern treasure that showcases our fossil and dinosaur history.

The Fossil and Prairie Center is a relatively new space to showcase the history of the Hawkeye State.
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center
For decades, the Rockford Brick and Tile Company worked on these lands, and there are two remaining historic beehive kilns still standing.
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center
350 million years ago, this was the bottom of the ocean floor, and there are still millions of fossils remaining on sites like this throughout the Midwest.
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center
Most of the fossils you'll find are marine invertebrates that lived in a shallow sea environment.
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center

Related Stories

Visit Richmond Spring, One Of Iowa's Most Underrated Springs And A Great Summer Destination

Visit Richmond Spring, One Of Iowa's Most Underrated Springs And A Great Summer Destination

 Hike Rugged Trails And Explore A Old Mill At Iowa's Motor Mill Historic Site

Hike Rugged Trails And Explore A Old Mill At Iowa's Motor Mill Historic Site

 Cross A Giant Half-Mile Bridge With Awesome Views On The High Trestle Trail In Iowa

Cross A Giant Half-Mile Bridge With Awesome Views On The High Trestle Trail In Iowa
Dig through the loose gravel and dirt and you'll find fossils from gastropods, colony corals, cephalopods, and brachiopods.
Google Local / Jonathan Hoback
You won't need any tools to collect the fossils, because they're right on the surface. Bring a bucket with you to take them home!
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center
People of all ages love searching for treasure here at this fossil site in Iowa. You're allowed to take home what you find!
Facebook / Fossil and Prairie Center
This public fossil gorge offers miles of hiking and the oldest souvenirs you'll find in the Hawkeye State. It's a one of a kind adventure.
Google Local / James Moos

You can read more about this prehistoric fossil park hiding in Floyd County, Iowa on the county website, right here.

If you love the idea of visiting a fossil site in Iowa, make plans to visit The Devonian Fossil Gorge here in the Hawkeye State, too!

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles

Explore Iowa

Featured Addresses
Fossil & Prairie Center, 1227 215th St, Rockford, IA 50468, USA