Places to Find Fossils: Plan Your Next Adventure
Looking for places to see fossils or try a fossil outing? Start with the destinations below, then check each location’s current access and collecting rules before making plans. Some outings focus on observing fossils; others may allow collecting with permission.
Choose a destination that suits your interests and comfort. Consider walking distance, terrain, facilities, and whether a guided activity is available. You can enjoy discovering evidence of past life without taking a fossil home.
New to fossils? Our Fossils 101 guide introduces what to look for and how to explore responsibly.
New Jersey Fossils and Dinosaurs
Interested in exploring fossils close to home or adding a stop to a New Jersey trip? Our New Jersey Guide introduces fossil and dinosaur destinations to help you choose where to begin.
Use it as a starting point, then confirm each destination’s current hours, access, and collecting policies with the site manager before visiting.
Beltzville State Park, Pennsylvania Fossils
Explore our Beltzville State Park Page for an introduction to the park and a link to photos of fossil finds.
Before planning a fossil outing, contact the park office about current opportunities, access, and rules. Finding a fossil does not automatically mean you may remove it; observing and photographing discoveries can be part of the adventure.
Big Brook Preserve, NJ Fossils
Our visit to Big Brook Preserve included searching the creek for fossils, finding belemnites, and examining interesting rocks. Our Big Brook Trip Guide shares the experience through photos, practical details, and a short video.
Creek exploration involves wet footing and uneven ground. Before visiting, check current preserve rules and water conditions, and decide whether entering the creek suits your comfort and balance.
Falls of the Ohio State Park, Indiana
Explore fossil-bearing rocks beside the Ohio River in Clarksville, Indiana, near Louisville. My visit included searching the designated collecting piles, photographing riverside fossils, joining a guided walk, and exploring the Interpretive Center. Read my Falls of the Ohio fossil guide.
Fort Negley, Nashville, Tennessee
Our visit to Fort Negley combined fossil searching in the designated collecting area with exploring local history and enjoying views of Nashville. Read our Fort Negley fossil guide for firsthand experiences, photos, a video, and planning information, including an important update about construction and access.