Dinosaur National Monument wilderness guide
National Monument · CO, UT

Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is a sprawling area known for its remarkable dinosaur fossil beds and dramatic canyon landscapes. It offers diverse outdoor activities set against a backdrop of geological wonder.

National Monument210,8444+ Trails

Designation

National Monument

Total Wilderness Area

210,844

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Dinosaur National Monument

Dinosaur National Monument is a sprawling area known for its remarkable dinosaur fossil beds and dramatic canyon landscapes. It offers diverse outdoor activities set against a backdrop of geological wonder.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Spread across the northwestern corner of Colorado and northeastern Utah, Dinosaur National Monument covers over 210,000 acres of rugged terrain, preserved fossil sites, and dramatic river canyons. The monument is home to more than 800 paleontological sites, making it one of the most significant dinosaur fossil locations in the world. The confluence of the Green and Yampa Rivers has carved deep, colorful canyons through the park, providing stunning landscapes and opportunities for river rafting. This area supports a variety of ecosystems, from desert shrubland to coniferous forests, and offers a haven for wildlife, including mule deer, mountain lions, and more than 200 bird species. The monument is rich in history, showcasing petroglyphs and pictographs of the Fremont culture, which inhabited the area over a thousand years ago. Visitors can explore the Quarry Exhibit Hall to view intricate fossil displays or engage in outdoor adventures like hiking, camping, and scenic drives.

Field Guide · National Monument
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Dinosaur National Monument

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Quarry Exhibit Hall, featuring a wall of exposed dinosaur fossils.✦ Harpers Corner Road, offering panoramic views of the Yampa and Green River Canyons.✦ Echo Park, a historical meeting spot with rich Native American petroglyphs.✦ Lodore Canyon, known for its stunning rock formations and challenging river rafting.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Dinosaur National Monument

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

River Rafting

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Dinosaur National Monument
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Dinosaur National Monument.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entrance fees required; America The Beautiful Pass accepted.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Dinosaur National Monument

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Green River Campground

Near the river with views of the Green River's canyons. Open late spring through early fall.

Echo Park Campground

Located at the confluence of Yampa and Green Rivers with historical and natural significance.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Dinosaur National Monument

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Dinosaur, Colorado
⌖ 31.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dinosaur, Colorado

Dinosaur, Colorado offers outdoor lovers access to remarkable canyons, fossil sites, and rivers. Hike, bike, paddle, and camp amid scenic desert landscapes and ancient dinosaur fossils.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Dutch John, Utah
⌖ 32.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Dutch John, Utah

Dutch John, Utah, is a gateway to Flaming Gorge’s wild rivers and red-rock canyons. Perfect for fishing, boating, hiking, and off-roading, it offers rugged adventure and peaceful wilderness far from the crowds.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Jensen, Utah
⌖ 32.73 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jensen, Utah

Jensen, Utah, is a rugged desert gateway perfect for whitewater rafting, scenic hiking, and mountain biking along the Green and Colorado Rivers. This quiet town offers authentic access to unforgettable canyon adventures and starry night camps.

Spring through early Fall
Explore Town
Vernal, Utah
⌖ 37.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Vernal, Utah

Vernal is a hub for adventure, offering hiking, fossil hunting, and river rafting in stunning natural landscapes like Dinosaur National Monument and the Green River.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Rangely, Colorado
⌖ 41.63 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rangely, Colorado

Rangely, Colorado offers a desert-adjacent playground with hiking, mountain biking, paddling on the Green River, and off-roading adventures. Its proximity to Dinosaur National Monument and wide-open public lands make it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking varied terrain and solitude.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Maybell, Colorado
⌖ 43.13 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Maybell, Colorado

Maybell, Colorado offers quiet access to scenic hiking, fishing, and snowmobiling in Routt National Forest and along the Yampa River. This remote town is perfect as a basecamp for outdoor lovers seeking solitude and spectacular natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall; Winter for snowmobiling
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Dinosaur National Monument

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.