Camels on the Quad: Fall Fossil Fest 2026

Saturday, November 7, families can enjoy a full day of fossil-themed activities including opportunities to explore real fossil discoveries from Idaho’s prehistoric past. Visitors will meet scientists and experts from the Prehistoric Museum in Utah, the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site from Utah, Ogden Eccles Dinosaur Park, the College of Eastern Idaho, Southwestern Oregon Community College, University of Arizona, Hagerman Fossil Beds National Monument, the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, seven Idaho State University (ISU) student researchers, and several researchers from right here at ISU and the IMNH.

The IMNH is unveiling the Megatylopus, affectionately known as Elmer, a mounted prehistoric camel skeleton. In celebration of Elmer, the IMNH is hosting Thunderstorm Ranch from Kuna, Idaho and two of their camels on the Quad! Get up close to these amazing gentle giants for hugs and photos while learning about their unique adaptations to the desert and remarkable history. Experience each camel’s unique personality and get ready to fall in love.

Back by popular demand is Cocoa and Critters Chat, a series of three talks led by field scientists. This special activity offers guests a rare chance to hear about the latest fossil research directly from the experts. Table presenters all throughout our gallery, fossil experts leading their own activities, add to the excitement of Fall Fossil Fest. On opposite hours of the talks guests could partake in a collections tour to get a behind-the-scenes look at what makes the IMNH a hidden gem.

New this year is the Artists’ Alley! Chat with local Paleoartists about their craft. Tim Gomes (3D IVL Manager) Tut Tran (IMNH Education Specialist), Ashelee Rasmussen (ISU Biology Department), Teresa Arispe (independent paleoartist), and Cy Marchant (ISU biology student) will be on hand to talk dinosaurs, mammals, and science-backed art creations!

More details at isu.edu/imnh. Tickets are available at the door. Museum members receive 20% off admission. All funding from the event supports educational programming at the Museum.