Fossil Lake Safari lets you unearth real pieces of prehistory in one of the world’s richest fossil beds, tucked in Wyoming’s dramatic high desert near Kemmerer. After a friendly orientation, expert guides hand you the hammers, chi...
Fossil Lake Safari lets you unearth real pieces of prehistory in one of the world’s richest fossil beds, tucked in Wyoming’s dramatic high desert near Kemmerer. After a friendly orientation, expert guides hand you the hammers, chi...
Visitors consistently rave about the genuinely friendly and knowledgeable staff who make the fossil-digging experience accessible for everyone. The crew provides clear instructions, helpful tools (including knee pads), and patient guidance when guests have questions. Multiple reviewers mention it takes about an hour to get the hang of the technique, but once you figure it out, you're practically guaranteed to leave with real fossils you've uncovered yourself. Families especially appreciate how exciting it is for kids to discover ancient treasures they can actually keep. Plan for a dusty, hands-on adventure and wear long pants since you'll be getting dirty while splitting rocks and digging through gravel. The portable restrooms aren't the cleanest, so use facilities beforehand if possible. Arriving early is recommended for the best selection of uncovered pieces and to beat the crowds. The access road is a bit rough, but most visitors agree it's totally worth the trip for such a rare opportunity to dig your own fossils at one of the few places in the world where you can keep what you find.
My brother had heard of this spot and convinced me to take two hours of my life to pry open rocks to see if I could find fossils inside. I did not expect it to be so much fun! Our experience was made great because of Jordan and Jason - (hope I got those names right) -- a young couple who were marvelous with ALL who had come to the quarry. Jordan taught us the proper technique - and after I opened the first rock and found a fish fossil immediately - I was hooked. Jason helped my brother and I to find what he thought was a good location -- and it was. We found many common - and a few 'less common' fossils. After our time was up - Jordan helped us to line out and then she cut the final shapes of the rocks we decided to save. We had a bit of rain - and it was a bit chilly - and it turned out to be a fantastic experience. Will it be for you? I don't know. But I went in with my doubts - and I'll go back someday.
David E. Bruce
July 6, 2026
My brother had heard of this spot and convinced me to take two hours of my life to pry open rocks to see if I could find fossils inside. I did not expect it to be so much fun! Our experience was made great because of Jordan and Jason - (hope I got those names right) -- a young couple who were marvelous with ALL who had come to the quarry. Jordan taught us the proper technique - and after I opened the first rock and found a fish fossil immediately - I was hooked. Jason helped my brother and I to find what he thought was a good location -- and it was. We found many common - and a few 'less common' fossils. After our time was up - Jordan helped us to line out and then she cut the final shapes of the rocks we decided to save. We had a bit of rain - and it was a bit chilly - and it turned out to be a fantastic experience. Will it be for you? I don't know. But I went in with my doubts - and I'll go back someday.
David E. Bruce
July 6, 2026