1-Day Dinosaur Dig in Belle Fourche
Dig for real fossils in the Hell Creek badlands in a single day
Duration
8:00 am–7:30 pm
Includes
Tools, training, common fossils
Highlights
Explore a dinosaur quarry in the Hell Creek badlands on a hands-on, single-day field experience. Learn excavation techniques, search for fossils, and see how paleontological fieldwork is done.
- Explore a private-ranch dinosaur dig site with field guides
- Practice careful excavation techniques on delicate fossils
- Learn how to identify dinosaur bones and fossil finds
- Keep common fossils you find, as determined by your guide
- Learn which commercially significant finds may be purchased for an additional fee
Itinerary
8:00-9:15- Meet at the new Dinosaurs of the Hell Creek Museum, sign waivers, check-in and tour of the museum. Orientation Lecture "What is a dinosaur bone?"
9:15-10:45- Drive to the Dinosaur digs. Along the way we will stop at a convenience store for anything you may have forgotten.
10:45-12:00- Arrive on site, go over history of discovery, safety rules, and training on how to dig. Start Digging!
12:00-1:00- Excavation in the quarry
1:00-2:00 Lunch on your own
2:00-5:00- Excavation in the quarry
5:00-5:30- Pack up and final evaluation of fossils
5:30-7:00- Drive home
7:00-7:30- Quick prep of any small fossils
Second day- switch quarries.
What's Included
- Digging tools and supplies
- Fieldwork training
Important details
- Arrive at 8:00 am sharp for check-in and orientation
- Complete a waiver before heading to the field
- All participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times
- Requires reasonably good physical condition for rough terrain, all-day digging, and high temperatures
- Not suitable for people with heart conditions or serious health concerns
- Wear closed-toe hiking boots or sneakers; open-toed sandals are prohibited
- Bring a rain poncho, drinking water, sun protection, lunch, snacks, and extra drinks
- Follow guide instructions and handle fossils carefully; willful damage or disregard of rules may result in removal without refund
- Self-driving requires a 4x4 and driving on rough dirt roads
Cancellation Policy
Cancel 30+ days ahead for a full refund minus the $100 nonrefundable deposit. Less than 30 days: partial refund based on circumstances; within 7 days, likely full charge. No-shows are charged in full. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or unforeseen circumstances.
Product ID: FBNEKN
FAQs
No. This dinosaur dig is real fieldwork, and fossil discoveries are not guaranteed. Search carefully and follow your guide's direction when you find a specimen.
No restroom facilities are available in the field, and there are few trees or other shade. Bring personal toiletries, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water.
Bring gloves, a foam mat or seat cushion, a small backpack, layers, a towel, and a small-to-medium cooler. Wear jeans or loose-fitting pants; shorts are not recommended.
Meeting details
Dinosaurs of the Hell Creek Museum, 11324 US-212, Belle Fourche, SD 57717