After years of studies and anticipation, the Waco Mammoth Site has now become part of the National Park System. President Obama designated the site as a National Monument on July 10, 2015. Excavation began on the Waco Mammoth Site in 1978 when a large bone was discovered by two arrowhead hunters and taken to Baylor University's Strecker Museum for identification. Since that time, 23 Columbian mammoths, a camel and the tooth from a saber tooth tiger have been found. Following years of digging and paleontological study, the site opened to the public December 2009. A state-of-the-art, climate-controlled dig shelter permanently protects in situ remains of the nation's first and only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Pleistocene mammoths. This is one of the most significant Ice Age fossil beds in the world.

For now the Site's hours will remain Tuesday-Friday 11 AM-5 PM, Saturday 9 AM-5 PM, but the guided tour rates have decreased. Effective July 11 the rates will be: Adults $5; Military, Students, Educators & Seniors $4; Children 4-12 $3; Children 3 and under free.

Over 21,000 guests visit the Site annually. Being part of the National Parks System is expected to increase visitation to Waco Mammoth National Monument by 23% within the first year and between 8-15% in future years beginning 2017.