Interactive exhibits, private tours, events, and family digs at The Fossil Discovery Center in Chowchilla.
Choose from general admission, private tours, large-group programs, or host events & functions.
wildlife-nature · Chowchilla
Bring your group to the Fossil Discovery Center in Chowchilla for a focused two hour Ice Age experience. These private tours are built for groups of 15–60 and combine hands on fossil activities with docent led context about Central Valley geology.
The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County preserves and interprets Ice Age paleontology in Chowchilla, California. The Center offers exhibits that showcase mammoth and saber-tooth cat fossils, life-size replicas, hands-on activities, and educational films. Visitors can explore a working paleontology lab, dig for fossils, and view specimens recovered from California’s Central Valley.
Public access includes general admission with exhibits, a short film, laboratory viewing, and interactive digs for families and curious visitors. Private group tours and large-group private tours provide guided experiences tailored to school groups, community organizations, and tour operators, emphasizing regional Ice Age history and scientific methods. Events & Functions rentals are available for after-hours gatherings, combining accessible tours, a gift shop, refreshments, and picnic spots.
The Center focuses on education, community engagement, and the conservation of paleontological resources. Staff and volunteer educators interpret collections using evidence-based information and hands-on demonstrations. Programs align with school learning objectives and support experiential learning for children and adults alike.
Facility amenities include accessible pathways, a gift shop, and outdoor areas suitable for group events. The Center partners with local organizations to host educational programs and outreach. Visitors are encouraged to review current hours, special events, and booking requirements before arrival to ensure the best experience.
As a county-supported public museum dedicated to regional fossils and Ice Age interpretation, The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County offers reliable, family-friendly opportunities to learn about prehistoric life in California. Educational exhibits and programs serve learners of all ages, from preschoolers through adults, year-round regularly.
Central Valley destination
Interactive exhibits for every age
Private and public options available
See real fossils in process
Open the individual experience guide to confirm current availability, pricing, policies, conditions, and inclusions before booking.
The operator provides clear meeting points, departure times, and destination coordinates for all outings.
Personal flotation devices, emergency protocols, equipment checks, and paddling orientations are provided before departure.
Recommended layering, water shoes, sunscreen, and dry bags are detailed in each experience guide.
Guides share rich knowledge of regional flora, fauna, scenic landmarks, and river navigation.
A glimpse into the experiences, natural landscapes, and adventures waiting on your next trip.
Images supplied on the current The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County listing.
The Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County offers a variety of guided outdoor excursions, scenic routes, rentals, and custom itineraries tailored for families, couples, and adventure enthusiasts.
Yes. Most trips feature comprehensive safety orientations, equipment fittings, and calm routes suited for first-time adventurers. Check the details on individual experience guides for specific age and skill requirements.
Standard safety equipment (such as certified life vests and essential gear) is supplied for each booking. Detailed checklists regarding weather-appropriate attire and personal items are provided prior to departure.
Book general admission, reserve private tours, or inquire about Events & Functions in Chowchilla for a memorable Ice Age experience.
others · Chowchilla
Bring a small group to the Fossil Discovery Center in Chowchilla for a two-hour, guide-led journey into the Ice Age. Hands-on fossils, local Pleistocene finds, and custom tours make this an ideal stop for families, classrooms, and geology-minded travelers.
wildlife-nature · Chowchilla
Step into the Ice Age at General Admission in Chowchilla: view real mammoth bones, watch paleontologists at work, and let kids try a mock fossil dig. Plan about two hours for an engaging, family-friendly science stop in Madera County.
land-adventures · Chowchilla
Book an after-hours takeover at the Fossil Discovery Center in Chowchilla. Host private tours, refreshments, and picnics among real fossils for a memorable, educational gathering.
“Every outing is organized with local river knowledge, basic safety instruction, and equipment checks before departure.”
Click into any experience card above to view current dates, live availability, transparent pricing, cancellation policies, and booking details.