“large concentration of fossils”
Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park was first established in 1957 to protect and display North America's most abundant concentration and largest known Ichthyosaur fossils at the time. The park also preserves the turn-of-the-20th century mining town of Berlin as well as the Diana Mine. The Ichthyosaur fossil area is a Registered Natural Landmark and the historic townsite is on the National Register of Historic Places. These national designations speak to the unique value of the resources preserved here. 14 well-spaced units, some suitable for RVs to 25 ft, with fire ring, BBQ grill, covered table, drinking water (mid-April to October), and restrooms nearby. RV sanitary station is available.
So there's two main features here: the ghost town and the fossils. The ghost town is super well preserved and they offer tours of the fossil shelter during the summer, so there's plenty to do!
Berlin is the ghost town, which was around from the late 19th to the early 20th century and served as a hub for a small gold mine; there are more than a few well-preserved buildings to explore. There's also the ichthyosaur fossils-- huge sea beasts that lived about 215 million years ago.
Really awesome state park. We had a lot of fun here.
Had a great time at Berlin Ichthyosaur! We got there right before the fossil tour on Sunday. The drive out is beautiful, and the park guide was super friendly and happy to answer any questions we had. Bring some extra cash for souvenirs from the fossil house.
The ghost town is a fun trail and easy to walk, with lots of signs to show you what the buildings were. We set out from Cold Springs, and it was approximately a 50 minute journey. Great for a day trip!
I love this little state park. Very remote, cool ghost town, great campground, and amazing fossils. What more could one want??
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Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
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Parking
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Pets Allowed
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Restrooms
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Wifi
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Wheelchair Accessible
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Credit Cards Accepted
- Affiliation
- State park or forest
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Fifty Amp
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Tent Sites
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Full Hookup
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Dump Station
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Sewer Hookup
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Water Hookup
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Potable Water
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Rec Facilities
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Standard Tent Sites
Campground, Parking
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