Big Bone Lick State Park

Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a significant location known for its rich history and paleontological importance. It is recognized as the birthplace of American vertebrate paleontology due to the first organized excavation conducted by William Clark in 1807. The site features fossilized remains of prehistoric animals such as American Mastodon, Columbian Mammoth, and Giant Ground Sloths. Visitors can explore the museum, which displays fossilized bones and artifacts from the last 18,000 years, and the Discovery Trail, a disabled-accessible path that provides insight into the site's pre-history. The park also offers a range of activities, including picnicking, swimming, hiking, and fishing. Additionally, the site is home to a live bison herd and features a gift shop. The area's unique salt springs, which still bubble from the ground, were a key attraction for prehistoric animals and played a significant role in the site's history