Collections: Museum

Red stairs leading up into area to change bulb in Fresnel lens at Point Reyes Lighthouse.
Looking up at the First Order Fresnel lens in the historic Point Reyes National Seashore Lighthouse. The lens and clockworks are part of the Point Reyes National Seashore Museum Collection.

NPS

The museum's scope of collecting includes type specimens and objects collected or related to lands, people or events within the park boundaries. Objects are collected in agreement with permitted archeological excavations, permitted scientific studies, voucher acquisitions, or through transfer and donation. Object and specimen retention is based on resource protection, education, research and interpretation values.

Artifacts and specimens in the collections are divided into eight disciplines within Cultural (Archeology and Ethnology, Art, History, and Archives) and Natural (Biology, Geology, and Paleontology) resources.

For more information or to make a research appointment, email the Museum Curator.

 
A museum cabinet with the contents of a couple drawers visible.
Cultural Collections

Cultural Collections contain over 13,330 objects, artifacts, and art representing thousands of years of human activity on the peninsula.

A photo of gray whale baleen.
Natural History Collections

Natural History collections currently number 9,280 biology, paleontology, and geology specimens collected within park boundaries.

Last updated: August 22, 2024

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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