Tar Pits Park Guide
Tar Pits Park: A Glimpse into Carpinteria's Prehistoric Past Guide
Discover the fascinating world of prehistoric California at Tar Pits Park in Carpinteria. This unique park offers a glimpse into the region's ancient past, showcasing natural asphalt seeps that have trapped and preserved the remains of animals for thousands of years. While not as extensive as the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, Carpinteria's Tar Pits Park provides an intriguing and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The Carpinteria Tar Pits are natural asphalt seeps that have been active for tens of thousands of years. Over time, animals became trapped in the sticky asphalt, and their bones were preserved. These fossils provide valuable insights into the types of animals that roamed the area during the Pleistocene epoch, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves. The park serves as a reminder of the dynamic geological processes that have shaped the California coastline. At Tar Pits Park, you can explore the natural asphalt seeps and learn about the fossils that have been discovered there. Informative displays and interpretive signs provide insights into the park's geology, paleontology, and natural history. While you can't dig for fossils yourself, you can observe the seeps and imagine the animals that once roamed the area. The park is also a great place for a leisurely walk and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. There are no specific culinary traditions associated with the park itself.
Transportation
Tar Pits Park is easily accessible by car. There is parking available at the park. You can also reach the park by taking the Santa Barbara Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) bus Route 20 to Carpinteria and walking a short distance. Check the MTD website for the most up-to-date schedules and route information.