Split open rock at a private fossil quarry and keep your finds
8 Hours
Quarry access, tools, guidance
Spend a full day digging at a private Fossil Lake quarry near Kemmerer, Wyoming. Learn how to split fossil-rich rock, find specimens, and take home what you uncover.
The quarry sits at about 7,300 feet, and conditions can change quickly—plan for sun, cooler mornings, and possible rain. If you find a fossil valued over $100k, royalties must be paid to the land owner to keep it.
Free cancellations up to 48 hours in advance. Within 48 hours, you are charged 25% of the booking fee. No-shows are not eligible for a refund.
Expect high altitude (about 7,300 feet) and changeable conditions. Plan for sunny weather, cooler early mornings, and possible thunderstorms or brief rain showers.
No. The nearest services, including food and gas, are in Kemmerer, about a half hour from the quarry.
Yes, you keep the fossils you find during your Fossil Lake Safari.
Kemmerer, Wyoming
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.
Best day ever! Our day was better than expected. Came home with lots of excellent fossils! The kindest people helping me. Checking in on me often providing education on how best to find the fossils. Bathrooms were very clean. Will try to go again next year!
Karen Rupprecht
May 24, 2026
Best day ever! Our day was better than expected. Came home with lots of excellent fossils! The kindest people helping me. Checking in on me often providing education on how best to find the fossils. Bathrooms were very clean. Will try to go again next year!
Karen Rupprecht
May 24, 2026