Museum: Natural History Collections

Collage of marine mammal skulls, bird and mammal study skins, fossils, seashells, and whale teeth in a museum collections cabinet.
Natural history specimens in collections storage at the Point Reyes National Seashore Museum Collections facility.

NPS / Point Reyes National Seashore Museum

Point Reyes National Seashore maintains a natural history collection for exhibition, research, education, and resource management. The collection contains voucher specimens from biology, paleontology, and geology. The park's extensive Herbarium is part of the biology collection. The museum keeps all records and findings associated with specimens collected within park boundaries during scientific research in the Archives and Research Library.

NPS museum natural history collections and associated documents provide a record of species living in specific ecosystems and environments at different points in time. Climate change presents the greatest challenge the National Park Service faces today. Natural history specimens provide scientists with the ability to research how our planet is changing in response to climate change. Science in the parks helps us learn how to manage our planet better and conserve our cultural and natural resources for all living things.

For more information, please email the Museum Curator.

Last updated: August 22, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1 Bear Valley Road
Point Reyes Station, CA 94956

Phone:

415-464-5100
This number will initially be answered by an automated attendant, from which one can opt to access a name directory, listen to recorded information about the park (e.g., directions to the park; visitor center hours of operation; fire danger information; wildlife updates; ranger-led programs; seasonal events; etc.), or speak with a ranger. Please note that if you are calling between 4:30 pm and 10 am, park staff may not be available to answer your call.

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