Featured Events

The Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center is a unique outdoor museum. It sits on 100 acres in Jurupa Valley, California. This is a working paleontological and geological site. You see real dinosaur fossils and minerals. The center operates as a non-profit educational foundation. It provides hands-on learning for all ages. You can dig for fossils and can explore mineral displays. You can learn about earth’s history. This is one of Southern California’s hidden gems.

Explore the World-Class Fossil Collection

The Discovery Center boasts an incredible fossil collection. You see full-size dinosaur skeletons. The exhibits include a massive Tyrannosaurus Rex skull. You find Triceratops horns and armor plates. The collection features marine reptile fossils from California. These include mosasaurs and plesiosaurs. You see Ice Age mammoth tusks and teeth. All specimens are real, not replicas.

Fossil Collection Highlights

T-Rex Specimens: View an impressive original T-Rex skull.
Triceratops Fossils: See horns and frill bones up close.
Marine Reptiles: Examine mosasaur skeletons from local areas.
Ice Age Mammals: Stand near massive mammoth tusks.
Prehistoric Sharks: See giant megalodon teeth.

Marvel at the Extensive Mineral and Gem Displays

The mineral collection will amaze you. You see thousands of sparkling specimens. The displays include huge geodes and crystals. You find minerals from around the world. The center specializes in local Southern California specimens. The rock shop sells unique mineral pieces. You can start your own collection.

Mineral and Gem Exhibits

Geode Displays: See giant, crystal-filled geodes.
California Minerals: View gold, tourmaline, and kunzite.
Fluorescent Room: Watch minerals glow under black lights.
Systematic Collection: Minerals organized by chemical composition.
Gemstone Carvings: See intricate works of art in stone.

Participate in Hands-On Educational Activities

The center focuses on interactive learning. You can participate in real fossil digging. Staff paleontologists guide the activities. Children love the hands-on discovery areas. The center offers educational programs for schools and groups.

Educational Activities

Fossil Digs: Search for real fossils in designated areas.
Mineral Panning: Sort through material for gemstones.
Guided Tours: Learn from expert staff members.
Educational Workshops: Attend classes on paleontology.
School Field Trips: Custom programs for student groups.

Discover the Outdoor Exhibits and Nature Trails

The 100-acre property features extensive outdoor exhibits. You walk among natural desert vegetation. The trails lead to various display areas. You see fossil beds and geological formations. The outdoor setting makes learning an adventure.

Outdoor Exploration

Nature Trails: Hike through native California landscape.
Fossil Beds: See excavation sites where fossils were found.
Geological Formations: Observe different rock layers.
Desert Garden: Learn about native plants and their uses.
Picnic Areas: Enjoy lunch surrounded by nature.

Visit the Rock and Fossil Shop

The center’s shop is a destination itself. You can purchase authentic fossils and minerals. The prices range from affordable to investment pieces. The staff helps you choose the perfect specimen. You can find unique gifts and educational materials.

Shop Offerings

Authentic Fossils: Buy dinosaur teeth and bone fragments.
Mineral Specimens: Purchase crystals and gemstones.
Educational Kits: Get fossil digging kits for children.
Books and Guides: Learn more about paleontology.
Jewelry: Find unique pieces made from natural stones.

Host Special Events and Celebrations

The center is available for private events. You can host birthday parties here. The facility welcomes corporate retreats and group tours. Special events include fossil digs and mineral hunts.

Event Opportunities

Birthday Parties: Paleontology-themed parties for children.
Group Tours: Custom experiences for clubs and organizations.
Corporate Events: Team-building in a unique setting.
Special Workshops: Advanced fossil preparation classes.
Seasonal Events: Rock and gem shows throughout the year.

Support Educational Mission and Programs

The center operates as a non-profit organization. Your admission fees support educational programs. The center serves over 20,000 students annually. It provides scholarships for school field trips. The mission is to inspire interest in earth sciences.

Educational Impact

School Programs: Curriculum-based field trip experiences.
Summer Camps: Week-long paleontology adventures for kids.
Teacher Workshops: Professional development in science education.
Community Outreach: Brings specimens to schools and events.
Research Support: Contributes to paleontological science.

“Your Adventure in Earth Science Awaits”

Visiting Discovery Center

The center is open to the public on weekends. Weekdays are reserved for school groups and private tours. Advance reservations are recommended. The facility is mostly outdoors. You should dress for the weather. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring water and sunscreen.

Visitor Information

Hours: Open Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Admission: Affordable fees support educational programs.
Location: Easy to find in Jurupa Valley, California.
Parking: Ample free parking is available.
Accessibility: Some areas are wheelchair accessible.

The Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center offers an unforgettable experience. You walk among real dinosaur fossils and hold ancient history in your hands. The center makes science exciting and accessible. It inspires wonder in visitors of all ages.

Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, dinosaur fossils California, things to do in Jurupa Valley, paleontology museum, fossil digging, mineral exhibits, family activities, school field trips, Southern California attractions, rock and gem show.

Phone: (951) 685-5818
Website: www.jmdc.org
Address: Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center, 7621 Granite Hill Dr, Riverside, CA 92509
Location Map: