Family Programs at Fossil Rim

Fossil Dig and Hike

Are there any aspiring paleontologists (fossil-hunters) in your family? Have you ever wondered why we’re called Fossil Rim Wildlife Center? After a brief introduction to fossils, so that you will know what you’re looking for, we’ll head off to one of our fossil pits and dig in! You’ll be able to keep at least a couple of the fossils that you find. After the dig, we’ll take you on a guided mini-tour through the Game Preserve, where the giraffes and zebras live.

Audience: Recommended for all ages.
Length: 3 hours

Cost: $35 per person.
Reservations required.

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Discovery after Dark

Evening educational program, that is based upon nocturnal animal characteristics, that seeks to inspire appreciation of the natural world. Includes a 45 minute program in the Eco Center that is followed by a 2 hour guided evening tour of Fossil Rim Wildlife Center.

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Audience: Recommended for 7 and up.
Length: 3 hours

Cost: $47 per person.
Reservations required.

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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!

Audience: Recommended for ages 4–6.
Length: 1.5 hours

Cost: $10 per person.
Reservations required.

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Fight for Survival

Have you ever wondered what Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is really all about? We are so much more than a drive-through zoo! Come to this program and discover the 5-part mission of Fossil Rim. We will specifically focus on the park’s mission of conservation of our animals. You will have the opportunity to learn about Fossil Rim’s mission and what we do to save endangered species, while also discovering how you too can save endangered species. At the conclusion of the program you will even be able to meet some of our endangered friends while on a tour of the park. Meets at the Eco Center. Members receive a 10 percent discount. Reservations are required, and it is recommended that reservations be made at least 3 days in advance. Space is limited. For reservations or further questions call 254.897.2960 or contact by email.

Audience: Recommended for ages 7 to adult.
Length: 4 hours, 1:00pm–5:00pm

Cost: $35 per person.
Reservations required.

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Pumpkin Carving for the Animals

No doubt about it, fall is the season for pumpkins! What better way to enjoy the cool air and turning leaves than to carve pumpkins for Fossil Rim Wildlife Center’s animals?! In this program you will have the opportunity to carve pumpkins and watch as they are given to our animals at the Children’s animal center, including our maned wolf. The pumpkins serve as enrichment items and snacks in order to keep the animals active and healthy. Following the pumpkin carving, you will be given the opportunity to ‘interview’ some of our animals and get to know them personally. There will even be a mini-tour of the park which will bring you through the giraffe pasture and up to cheetah hill. Please bring your own pumpkin (at least 1 pumpkin, 6-18 inches tall, per person please). Carving tools are provided, but you may bring your own if you would prefer. We look forward to seeing you here! For reservations or further questions call 254.897.2960 or email education@fossilrim.org.

Audience: Recommended for all ages.
Length: 3.5 hours, 12:30pm–4:00pm

Cost: $25 per person.
Reservations required.

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For the Birds

How do animals living under human care keep from getting bored? Enrichment! Discover how Fossil Rim keeps its animals happy and entertained, while making your own enrichment items (toys) for the parrots and other animals. Then join us on a short guided tour to visit the Game Preserve where the giraffes and zebras live.

Audience: Recommended for ages 5–Adult.
Length: 2.5 hours

Cost: $18 per person.
Reservations required.

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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. 

Call for more information or to make reservations (required).

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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.