Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park

Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park combines dinosaurs and ghost towns, two of childhood's ultimate passions, in one beautiful gem of park. With a campground and several self-guided trails, this Nevada state park is a great place to bring the family.

Berlin Historic District

The silver and gold mining town of Berlin, Nevada, was established in 1897. It declined precipitously after the financial Panic of 1907, and was abandoned by 1911. As it now stands, the ghost town contains several buildings and various personal effects left behind when the town was deserted. The town is accessible as a self-guided tour with instructional signs.

Ichthyosaur fossil beds

The Ichthyosaurus Shonisaurus popularis, an extinct marine reptile, is the state fossil of Nevada. Discovered in 1928, the Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park fossil bed is where paleontologists have found some of the world's largest icthyosaur fossils. Many of these fossils remain in situ, protected by a shelter; tourists can see them on guided tours available from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Other activities at the park

The Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park has a small campground (14 units) connected to the fossil beds by a nature trail. A fire ring, toilets and water are available at the campground. There is also a day-use picnicking area near the fossil beds. A short self-guided walking tour of Union (a suburb of Berlin) is available along both sides of the road just past the turnoff to the campground.

Ghost towns and dinosaurs continue to enthrall even the adult imagination. The combination of the two in a site of such natural beauty makes this an alluring destination. The Berlin-Ichthyosaur State Park is truly a state treasure.