Mazon Creek Fossil Beds
The fossils that were discovered in this site near Morris have formed over 309 million years ago.
Plan Around Mazon Creek Fossil Beds
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Mazon Creek Fossil Beds Details
The fossils that were discovered in this site near Morris have formed over 309 million years ago. Over 400 types of plants and 320 species of soft and hard-bodied animals have been unearthed over the last 150 years, including jellyfish, sea scorpions, snails, millipedes, spiders, and crabs. With such a diverse collection of creatures preserved in ironstone concretions, this site is one of the most important fossil sites not just in Illinois, but in the entire US. As such, it was declared a National Natural Landmark in 1997.
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Low
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Nearby Parks Around Mazon Creek Fossil Beds
Compare nearby parks around Mazon Creek Fossil Beds when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Mazon Creek Fossil Beds
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Mazon Creek Fossil Beds while the map context is still fresh.
3.1 mi away
Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area
This sprawling 2,537-acre nature preserve is more than just protected grassland prairie.
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William G. Stratton State Park
William G. Stratton State Park was established to provide boat access to the Illinois River.
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Gebhard Woods State Park
Gebhard Woods State Park is one of Illinois' most popular state parks due to its how often it is visited by canoeists, hikers, and picnickers.
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Prairie Creek Woods Trail
If you are looking for an alternative to the many forested and canyon rock trails in Illinois, then consider this beautiful hike through the tallgrass prairies.
9.4 mi away
Channahon State Park
Channahon State Park named after the Native American word that means "the meeting of the waters" and signifies the meeting of the Dupage, Des Plaines and Kankakee Rivers.
