RV rental Fossil Butte National Monument, WY: Motorhome rentals, camper van rentals and more

Categorized as a “high, cold desert,” this far northwestern corner of Wyoming is dry and arid. Winds seem to blow nonstop as if the desert itself was breathing. Much of the dry, sandy soil is covered by sagebrush and other drought-hardy native plants. Along the bottom of buttes and mesas that rise from the plains, straggly scrub oaks cluster, drinking up every drop of water that rolls down the slopes. There are four miles of maintained trails for hikers to enjoy. The adventurous hikers can also take a dirt road to trailheads where they can tackle an additional seven miles of unmaintained trails. The maintained trails lead to past paleontological digs where various fossils were found, and interpretative signs indicate the area’s history, fossil species, and information about the Cretaceous era. Although most of the obvious fossil finds have been excavated, experts believe that there are far more discoveries waiting within the heart of the buttes. Photographers and nature lovers will enjoy this dramatic, windswept desert. Herds of pronghorns and mule deer roam the rough terrain. In winter and early spring, moose and elks sometimes emerge from the mountains to the west in search of food and water. After the spring snowmelt occurs, the arid desert transforms from a muted, leathery tan to soft, mossy green as wild grass, oaks, and sagebrush are revitalized by an influx of water, though scarce. Though it’s a rare event, after an especially wet winter, the region has been known to experience a “super bloom,” an event in which rare, fragile flowers blossom for a few days. After a week or so, as the snowmelt evaporates, the desert returns to its familiar sandy brown appearance. Hikers and outdoor adventurer, take note. Hats, extra water, and sunscreen are recommended year-round. Fossil Butte National Monument is one of the few national parks that allow leashed dogs on trails. Dog owners should bring extra water for their pets, as well. Because Fossil Butte National Monument is a federally-run monument park, any fossil or rock finds must be reported and turned over to the authorities. However, American Fossil (also known as FishDig) operates out of a former quarry close by. All rockhounds and fossil hunters may keep their finds.