Explore the Mammoth Site
The Mammoth Site is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the mission of preservation, research, and interpretation of the late Ice Age record found at our site in Hot Springs, South Dakota. We are the world’s largest mammoth research facility and one of the top fossil interpretive sites in North America. Over 60 mammoths (58 Columbian, 3 woolly) have been unearthed, along with at least 87 other Late Ice Age animals.
The Mammoth Site does not receive any ongoing federal, state, or local funding. Admission, donations, and gift shop sales help us continue to tell the story of the late Ice Age.
Hours
Open Daily
May 22 – August 19
8:00am – 6:00pm
August 20 – October 31
9:00am – 5:00pm
November 1 – February 28
9:00am – 3:30pm
March 1 – May 21
9:00am – 5:00pm
Pricing
General Admission
Children 3 & Under – Free
Ages 4-12 – $11.00
Active & Retired Military – $11.00
Ages 13-59 – $14.00
Ages 60 & Over – $12.00
Discover the Mammoth Site
Discover The Mammoth Site in Hot Springs, South Dakota. You can tour this indoor active dig site and view Ice Age fossils. The Mammoth Site offers self-guided tours, enhanced educational experience and Summer Educational Programs. The Mammoth Site is open year round.
The History
In June 1974, heavy equipment operator George Hanson was leveling ground for a Hot Springs housing development planned by land owner Phil Anderson. Hanson was grading a small hill when his blade struck something that shone white in the sunlight. Hanson got out for a closer look. What he saw was a tusk, about seven feet long, sliced in half length wise, along with other bones.
Steam Education
The Mammoth Site is the perfect place for field trips and offers a variety of classes
Research
Become a Member
All memberships receive:
- Free admission during membership year
- Invitations to special events & lecture series
- Yearly membership pin
- Information newsletters delivered via email
Benefits for Business Memberships:
Partner: Website logo sponsorship
Extra Benefits and Discounts
Become a Donor, Contributing, Business, Supporting or Sustaining member and receive:
- 20% discount in The Mammoth Site Gift Shop.
Donor: 2 complimentary passes
Contributing: 4 complimentary passes.
Supporting: 6 complimentary passes