Tucked into the rocky hills of Riverside, California, there’s a place where prehistoric giants roam, sparkly geodes hide beneath your feet, and kids (and let’s be honest—grownups too) are encouraged to dig, touch, and explore. Welcome to Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center—a nature-science wonderland that feels part museum, part hiking trail, and part backyard fossil expedition.
Whether you’re wrangling dino-loving kids or just craving a unique day trip off the beaten path, this place turns learning into a hands-on adventure. Picture towering T-Rex sculptures peeking through desert plants, paths lined with mystery rocks, and gardens filled with ancient succulents. It’s the kind of spot where curiosity thrives and no screen can compete.
What We Love
Dinosaur Garden Trail
You don’t need a time machine to walk with dinosaurs—just follow the winding trail through the Discovery Center’s outdoor exhibit, where over a dozen life-sized dinosaur statues loom among desert plants and boulders. Kids can scramble around, roar back, and snap selfies with their favorite prehistoric beasts.
Fossil Touch Tables
Inside the Earth Science Museum, you’ll find actual fossils and minerals you can hold. From shark teeth to trilobites, this hands-on approach makes geology unexpectedly thrilling. It’s like a natural history museum without the “do not touch” signs.
Rock and Mineral Shop
Love shiny things? The gift shop here is more of a gem-lover’s paradise. You’ll find amethyst clusters, polished stones, and kitschy dino merch perfect for souvenirs or stocking stuffers. There’s even a pay-by-the-pound bucket of mystery rocks.
Interactive Garden Trails
Beyond dinosaurs, you’ll stumble onto paths featuring water-wise gardens, native plants, and even a small turtle pond. It’s a surprisingly serene spot to slow down, breathe, and soak up a little SoCal sunshine surrounded by cactus blooms and butterflies.
Weekend Mining Adventure
On select weekends, families can join a hands-on “mining experience,” sifting through dirt to uncover gemstones and crystals. It’s part game, part science lesson, and fully delightful—especially when little ones find something sparkly to take home.
Atmosphere & Setting
The vibe here is delightfully DIY and charmingly eclectic. You’ll hear birds chirping and gravel crunching underfoot as you meander through cactus gardens and up rugged hills. The buildings have a retro mid-century feel, and everything is infused with a community-built spirit—from hand-painted signs to lovingly maintained gardens. It’s peaceful, playful, and feels like discovering a hidden roadside gem that only locals know about.
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Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. General admission is free, with donations welcomed—and well worth it for the experience. Special programs and group tours may have a modest fee, and the mining activity runs around $10–$15 depending on the kit. Expect to spend 1–2 hours exploring the grounds, and longer if you do a guided tour or attend a weekend event. It’s an especially great stop for families with young kids, science-curious adults, and anyone hunting for an educational yet low-pressure outing.
Other Considerations
Parking is free, and there’s usually plenty of it. The terrain is mostly gravel paths with some uneven spots, so wear comfy shoes. Weekdays are quieter, while weekends can be bustling with field trips and families. Bring water and snacks—there’s no café onsite, though there are picnic areas if you pack your own lunch. Summers can get toasty, so morning visits are best. And yes, there are restrooms and shaded seating areas for a midday break.
Whether you’re chasing fossils, admiring agates, or simply looking to surprise yourself with a day full of dino-sized fun, Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center makes science feel magical again—one rock, root, and raptor at a time.
Jurupa Mountains Discovery Center
📍 7621 Granite Hill Dr, Riverside, CA 92509-1202