Dig Your Own Fossils In Wyoming
Unearth the fossil hunting adventure of a lifetime at our exclusive Fossil Lake Safari. Located near Kemmerer, Wyoming, dig your own 52 million year old fossils in one of the world’s premier fossil sites. Even if you have never collected fossils before you will not leave empty handed.
A great activity for the entire family. Let our friendly and experienced staff help create memories that will last a lifetime. The best part? You get to keep the fossils you find!
Open: 7 Days a Week – May 9th to Sept 30th
Hours: 8:00am to 5:00pm
Reservations: Not Required
Important: Do not rely on Google or Apple maps for directions, View Correct Directions
No One Leaves Empty Handed
You get to keep the fossils that you find at the Fossil Lake Safari quarry including dozens of species of fish, stingrays, gars, other invertebrates and plants. Fossils of birds, bats, turtles, crocodiles, lizards and mammals can be found, but are an extremely rare component of the Green River Formation fauna.
* The only exception is extremely rare specimens exceeding $100k in value. Our lease requires us to pay the land-owner for these.
Reserve Your Trip
A Fossil Hunting Experience Of A Lifetime
Embark on an unparalleled journey through time at Fossil Lake Safari, where you can dig your very own fossil fish. Nestled within the stunning landscape near Kemmerer, WY, our quarry offers a unique opportunity to dive into the ancient world and discover remnants of prehistoric life. Don’t miss out on this exceptional Wyoming fossil collecting experience.
We supply:
- * Lots of fossil filled rock for you to split.
- * All required tools including hammers, chisels and gloves.
- * Instructions and knowledgable guides to assist you.
- * Tile saws to trim down your rock at the end of the day.
- * Fresh spring water, coffee and Wifi on site.
DISCOVER FOSSIL COUNTRY
Nestled in Wyoming’s rugged landscapes, the Green River Formation is a geological treasure. Spanning millions of years, this site showcases the powerful forces that have shaped our planet.
Famous for its well-preserved fossils, it offers a rare look into the distant past, where prehistoric creatures lived in lush environments. From fossilized fish to intricate plants, each find reveals the rich biodiversity of this ancient ecosystem. As one of the world’s top fossil sites, the Green River Formation continues to fascinate scientists and fossil enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into Earth’s history.
Directions & Location
The Fossil Lake Safari quarry is located 35 minutes North-West of Kemmerer, Wyoming. It is approximately 2 1/2 hours from Salt Lake City (nearest airport), 3 hours from Jackson, Wyoming, 4 hours from Yellowstone and 1 hour from Bear Lake.
Primitivo Gutierrez IV
1 year ago
I hear nothing but good from this place. Hopefully, within the next couple of years, I'll be able to go there. This has been a dream of mine forever. Ever since I found this rock in 1968. Then I took it to school in the 6th grade and forgot about it. I went into the military. My father reminded me of it when I got out of the service in 1985. When I was in my late 50s, I got ahold of my sixth grade teacher. Sent him a picture of me holding the rock. That's the only place I could have left it. I assume somebody must have tossed it. I guess I haven't looked around the school. Somebody told me I should do that. I really, really miss that rock. never found out what it was.
Ed Wasno
2 years ago
WOW, my wife and I had a once in a lifetime experience digging fossils. I could not believe the amount we found. The staff showed us the proper technique to split the stones and we were off to the races. We started off slow, but as we gained experience, we were splitting with the experts and finding more of them.
All in all, I would highly recommend Fossil Lake Safari. My friends in PA want me to organize a trip to come back.
Thanks Shondra!!
All in all, I would highly recommend Fossil Lake Safari. My friends in PA want me to organize a trip to come back.
Thanks Shondra!!
Jasmine Feng
2 years ago
Incredibly fun! It's only about a 2.5 hr drive from SLC and is worth going even if you have a few days in the city. There's some pretty views on the way there as well. The people there are very friendly and give helpful instructions on how to get started. It's super thrilling to crack a rock open and find a fossil. We found a bunch of fish fossils which was neat.
Some things to keep in mind:
- bring water or a water bottle! (They have a water refill station)
- bring a hat
- bring a folding chair or ask to borrow one of theirs
- bring a box and some packing material for your fossils
- the restrooms are port a potties
Some things to keep in mind:
- bring water or a water bottle! (They have a water refill station)
- bring a hat
- bring a folding chair or ask to borrow one of theirs
- bring a box and some packing material for your fossils
- the restrooms are port a potties
Joe Mallahan
2 years ago
Despite its rather carnival name, fossil lake safari is a truly professional and down to earth operation. They have carefully excavated 800 feet of rubble to reach the 52 million year old seabed that has layers upon layers of sediment, every inch containing sea life that died but did not decompose because of the chemistry of the ancient lake.
The owner cuts cubes of sea bed, roughly 2/3 meter X 2/3 meter, out of the seabed and sets them on the quarry floor for fossil hunters to splinter into hundreds of sheets of sandstone using small hammers and chisels supplied by the owner.
One in ten splits reveals a meaningful fossil.
Don't romanticize hunting fossils by yourself. You'll have to dig a 250-meter deep hole or violate a national monument at Fossil Butte! This place is legit, and you leave satisfied that your own hard work uncovered the ancient fossils you'll take home with you.
See the 4 inch fossil in the photo i have attached. It was on the edge of a two foot slab of sandstone that I split off a larger cube. The owner sawed the slab down to something I could easily carry home. I got 8 of these in 2 hours.
Bring a change of clothes and face masks. The quarry can stir up sand storms.
The staff and the owner, Matt, are enthusiastic and kind. You'll love these guys.
The owner cuts cubes of sea bed, roughly 2/3 meter X 2/3 meter, out of the seabed and sets them on the quarry floor for fossil hunters to splinter into hundreds of sheets of sandstone using small hammers and chisels supplied by the owner.
One in ten splits reveals a meaningful fossil.
Don't romanticize hunting fossils by yourself. You'll have to dig a 250-meter deep hole or violate a national monument at Fossil Butte! This place is legit, and you leave satisfied that your own hard work uncovered the ancient fossils you'll take home with you.
See the 4 inch fossil in the photo i have attached. It was on the edge of a two foot slab of sandstone that I split off a larger cube. The owner sawed the slab down to something I could easily carry home. I got 8 of these in 2 hours.
Bring a change of clothes and face masks. The quarry can stir up sand storms.
The staff and the owner, Matt, are enthusiastic and kind. You'll love these guys.
Brian & Karen Davis
2 years ago
Like most all the other reviews, my husband & I had a really great experience splitting rock and finding fossils. It's dirty work but someone has to do it. 😁 We spent the night in Kemmerer and were at the site at 8 am. We came the end of Sept.and the temp was perfect. Caden showed us the basics and later gave us a few fossils he found on his own. The staff are so nice! We found numerous fish fossils, some broken, in the 4 hrs we were there. We plan on gluing the broken ones together. It is a well run dig with excellent staff, all the tools you need (I did bring my own gloves) and porta potties. I ended up purchasing a cleaning tool and fossil preservatives for use at home from the little shop. We have no regrets and a lot of good memories.
Charles Jones
2 years ago
Wife and I had alot of fun. The staff was very friendly and helpful. We found alot of small fish fossils and they let us use a tile saw to trim them up after our time was up. Expect to get dirty, but it's well worth it.
Kathryn Sorrells
2 years ago
Wow! Just wow! This was an amazing experience. If you are contemplating going, definitely do. It’s hot and dusty and remote, but we had so much fun splitting rocks and then using the power tools to make our fossils look amazing. We definitely did not leave empty-handed. The staff was lovely and really invested in Giving us a great experience. It’s wild to think you have in your hand something that is 50 million years old, and you are allowed not only to touch it but to take it home! One thing to add : bring a camping chair for sure. Otherwise you’re sitting on extremely Rocky and uncomfortable ground. Also bring lots of water and a shade hat because it is hot, dry and dusty, and there is no shade.
Jennifer P.
2 years ago
We had an ok time but it is WAY overpriced. Almost $300 for 4 of us (2 adults, 2 kids) and we came home with simple fossils, lots of broken ones, and none that were bigger than can fit in the palms of our hands. So if you're looking to find big intact fish fossils like they show and advertise all over the website just plan on not and if you do you are lucky.
Also get there early so you can claim your spot next to the roped off area so when/if they open it you can move quickly into it and not just work in someone else's tailings.
We do A LOT of rock hounding and I'm not usually disappointed but I'm sad to say overall I was here.
I will say though that the staff was nice, helpful, and friendly.
Also get there early so you can claim your spot next to the roped off area so when/if they open it you can move quickly into it and not just work in someone else's tailings.
We do A LOT of rock hounding and I'm not usually disappointed but I'm sad to say overall I was here.
I will say though that the staff was nice, helpful, and friendly.
Nicole Finley
2 years ago
This was our first time doing anything like this and we had a blast! Kadan and Keanu were awesome and extremely helpful! Looking forward to being able to come back one day.
Russell Walker
2 years ago
Great people and awesome time! I'm looking forward to going back next season.
LEAH Barnes
2 years ago
I had so much fun and everyone was for friendly and helpful. My o ly regret is I wasn't physically able to do more!
flagirl56
2 years ago
My husband and I, along with our son and his girlfriend booked a four hour dig (9-1) on Wednesday Sept 25th. We’ve been wanting to do this fossil dig for a few years and I can’t say enough good things about the staff. The guys were very informative and helpful. Keanu (correct spelling?) was always around to answer questions, explaining there is no dumb question. We found many fossil fish between the four of us. If you’re struggling to find fossils, they’ll help you look for characteristics in the rocks that might indicate the presence of fossils. You won’t go home empty handed. I wish they sold t-shirts! I’d love to have bought one like Keanu wore!
We would definitely like to go again.
We would definitely like to go again.
Guy Gleason
2 years ago
What can I say other than everything we experienced in our group was AMAZING…Super helpful and friendly staff!! They did such an amazing job coming around and helping and answering any questions or showing us techniques. We had such a great time, that we are going to make it a tradition! You will not leave empty handed and the hunt for treasure is such a great time for all ages! Bring a spare set of clothes because you will get dusty, but it is well worth it!!!
J Yearout
2 years ago
The staff is extremely helpful and knowledgeable. They provided us with everything we needed to find the fossils. They weren’t afraid to get into chipping rocks with the kids to help them out if they needed some help to find fossils. If we had questions someone was always there ready to answer them and help when needed. This is a first class operation! Guaranteed to go home with fossils
Kyle Coulon
2 years ago
We had lots of fun! Better to get there close to opening because a lot of the bigger rocks were already split. Staff was very helpful.
Binshuang Li
2 years ago
It was a great experience digging for your own fossils here! Higher discovery rate than I expected! PS: the direction on google map is actually accurate now based on my experience.
Guy Hanna
2 years ago
Wonderful experience
The staff is helpful and engaging. The employees are very knowledgeable about the area and fossils. I would go again.
The staff is helpful and engaging. The employees are very knowledgeable about the area and fossils. I would go again.
Josh Johnson (Jbenjimac)
2 years ago
What an incredible way to spend a day. Be prepared for lots of sun. Bring lots of water. Also a sunshade or umbrella. The staff here is eager to help and answer questions. They are very knowledgeable. When our guide was showing us how to work the rock his first fracture popped out a beautiful fish fossil. You will find fossils and if luck is on your side it will fracture without breaking your fish. We stayed at the Opera house Suites in Kemmerer just 30 minutes away. We are already planning a return trip.
Eugene Hauptmann
2 years ago
Great Folks running Business.. Enjoyed my Dig . Found 13 Fish ..
Christopher Lampley
2 years ago
I went to visit Fossil Lake safari this past weekend, and it truly was an experience of a lifetime, felt like I was Sam Neil from Jurrasic Park, finding all these neat fossils, including some rare and less common species. I drove up and felt instantly welcomed by the crew, did not have reservations, thankfully I arrived early in the morning and walked right in, they supply everything you need tool wise and plenty of rock, all you need is plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and be sure to wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty as its quite dusty out there and a large hat to keep the sun off of you is a must. I worked with Keanu, he is a wealth of knowledge, very passionate about his work, and is very helpful in teaching you what you need to know about how to crack open the rock so you don't damage the potential treasure trove of fossils that might be underneath the first layer. Cannot think of one single thing that I would change about this place. Definitely a A+ rating, even if you only go once, it truly is spectacular event that you will never forget. Will definitely go back in the future, should the opportunity come around.
Lilia-Renee Anderson
2 years ago
It was an amazing experience. The staff were so amazing and helpful! Finding the fossils was a ton of fun and so cool to see all the different types. I’ll definitely be going again!
Thomas Rosenbrock
2 years ago
Kyle O
2 years ago
Super nice people!
Alejandro Lopez
2 years ago
Mikhail Richardson
2 years ago
Had a wonderful day digging for fossils in the quarry! All of the staff was extremely knowledgeable and friendly! The drive out was absolutely beautiful! Hope to come back soon!
mike mccarthy
2 years ago
Excellent operation. Great helpful, fun staff. My 5 year old son is fossil crazy and loves this place. You will come home with fossils.
jianbin Zheng
2 years ago
The fossil searching in the quarry is really fun!!! The staff showed us how to open up the layer and sometimes gave us a nice piece of fish fossil. We ended up taking home a whole box of fish fossils after two hours of work. Make sure google map guide you through from east track not the west track.
James Lukenbill
2 years ago
I feel bad that there is no 10 star available. This was the experience of a lifetime for me! Everyone there was incredibly helpful. I was more than satisfied within a half hour into my half day adventure, but in the next half hour I found the fossil of a lifetime. A bird!
Dimitri Kozyrev
2 years ago
T M
2 years ago
We took our three kids here yesterday and it was so much fun! Even our three year old could dig (with a little help). All of the staff are beyond helpful. They went above and beyond to make sure we were accommodated and I couldn't recommend this site more! We pivoted this trip from going to NC in two days so we were really winging everything and fossil safari made it just so easy to show up (no reservations needed) and dig til our hearts were content! We will definitely be spreading the word about them to our other digging loving friends! Do not hesitate one bit to spend a day here!
Tanya Cooper
2 years ago
Wonderful staff, super friendly. Helpful and encouraging to kids.
Gina Helmetag
2 years ago
Staff was amazingly awesome, helpful, kind, and personable, and it was definitely worth the money and time to chisel for fossils. You can even cut your finds to smaller sizes after the day if the slab is bigger than you want.
Can't count how many times we heard the term "fossil fever" from various folks who were there and have returned time and time again. Definitely addicting and definitely will return ourselves.
Can't count how many times we heard the term "fossil fever" from various folks who were there and have returned time and time again. Definitely addicting and definitely will return ourselves.
J RC
2 years ago
What a great experience! Pleasant, professional staff, well-layed out dig area, and plentiful fossils! I would recommend for individuals and families. Would definitely do again.
Kyrstiana Tracy
2 years ago
We had such a fun time looking for fossils! Afton was super helpful and informative.
Erin Strid
2 years ago
We had a great time hunting for fossils and found so many! The people running the place were helpful, friendly, and fun to talk to. Very clean port a potties! Will be back if we’re ever in the area again
Nemo Outdoor Adventures
2 years ago
Omg. Best experience ever. Did the all day dig and had so much fun and did another 4 hour dig the next day. My 16 yo son and I loved it. The team there was caring, honest, super helpful, and just great people. My son found a fossil crayfish, 22 in phareodous and 16 in phareodous. We combined to find 200 fossils and loved every min. Split the big rocks to find the big fish. These are some of the pics. Ten out of five stars in my opinion! I would go hear all day long and will be back next year for sure. Thanks for the amazing memories! Sincerely, Mike and Eric
M C
2 years ago
This is the place to go. The staff is outstanding. I don't know how many times I asked for help, and they always helped with a smile. Tim was great. He made the experience.
I dug at a different location the day before. That place was so sad in comparison and more expensive. Fossil Lake Safari is the place to go.
First, the drive there is beautiful. Take your time and enjoy the views. I saw a grouse. Early in the morning, the lighting is spectacular.
Google maps will get you there. I was concerned, but I got there with no problems.
Be ready for the sun. I dug from 8-12. I wouldn't want to be there all afternoon in the summer. Bring drinks and snacks.
I found so many great fossils. I will have to give some away. The tools are great. They have saws to cut them down at the end. Bring packing material.
If I ever dig again, this will be my first choice. Thanks for a great day.
I dug at a different location the day before. That place was so sad in comparison and more expensive. Fossil Lake Safari is the place to go.
First, the drive there is beautiful. Take your time and enjoy the views. I saw a grouse. Early in the morning, the lighting is spectacular.
Google maps will get you there. I was concerned, but I got there with no problems.
Be ready for the sun. I dug from 8-12. I wouldn't want to be there all afternoon in the summer. Bring drinks and snacks.
I found so many great fossils. I will have to give some away. The tools are great. They have saws to cut them down at the end. Bring packing material.
If I ever dig again, this will be my first choice. Thanks for a great day.
Brianne Brewer
2 years ago
Such a cool experience for our 5 and 4 year olds. They loved it and found so many amazing fossils to take home.
BF Goodrich
2 years ago
Fossil quarry that allows you to hunt, and keep fossils. I took my family of four for a dig, and we all had a blast. Little question of finding a fossil, there were so many that we were kinda picky.
Brooklyn Stromberg
2 years ago
Such a unique experience!! The staff was super friendly and knowledgeable about the history of the area and the fish. Highly recommend.
Brynn Black
2 years ago
It was a great time!
Autumn Black
2 years ago
So fun! Good experience!
Matthew Royal
2 years ago
Craig Hebby
2 years ago
Phenomenal experience! Found a partial stingray fossil, which had always been on my bucket list. They were extremely helpful and knowledgeable. Great quarry for experienced diggers or first-time beginners. They provide all of the tools (hammer, chisel, and saws to trim the fossils before you take them home). Paid for a full day of digging and found over 50 complete or nearly complete fish! About the only things you need to bring are water, snacks, gloves, sunscreen, and something to transport your fossils in (I used a milk crate and bubble wrap).
It’s awesome they let you keep practically anything and everything you find (with an individual specimen value up to $100,000). If you find any of the rare stuff (gar, stingray, paddlefish, turtle, bird, bat, etc), you can keep it. Will definitely be coming back!
It’s awesome they let you keep practically anything and everything you find (with an individual specimen value up to $100,000). If you find any of the rare stuff (gar, stingray, paddlefish, turtle, bird, bat, etc), you can keep it. Will definitely be coming back!
Linda Greenan
2 years ago
Flew into Salt Lake City and went directly to the fossil Lake safari quarry. We had such a wonderful experience, even better than what we imagined. The staff were very helpful and knowledgeable!
Arco Courier
2 years ago
We got a great day adventure experience. And came out with 10 fishes in 2 hours. Exceptional personal with lot of knowledge .
Eusebio Andres
Eusebio Andres
thor the cat
2 years ago
My wife and 3 kids had a great time. We got a lot of fossils to take home. Staff was friendly.
Marie Brown
2 years ago
I had a great time at Fossil Lake Safari! Everyone there was so nice, but Kaden was incredible. He was so helpful in showing us what to do and would check on my husband and me throughout the time we were looking for fossils. He offered very helpful hints and tricks and had a lot of information on what we were finding. It was a great experience and we are so happy with all of the super cool fossils we found!
carli valentine
2 years ago
We had such a fun time doing a private dig here with my family. The staff was wonderfully helpful and taught us so much! Highly recommend giving this place a try for your next family vacation!
Jens Grabowski
2 years ago
Loved it
Adam Taylor
2 years ago
Awesome place to go find fossils!
Margaret Smith
2 years ago
We had an amazing time hunting fossils here. The family/owners are wonderful and their workers were friendly and helpful. It was so much fun uncovering the fossils, we will definitely go back and make this a definite destination! We went July, 2024. I bought entrance online prior to the day we went, it was very easy to do. Highly recommended it!!!
mattirobinson
2 years ago
Best experience ever, so worth the side trip. Just bring your work cloths, a shade hat and water.Staff was wonderful, they provide the tools and gloves. Had I known that we’d find over 30 fish fossils in 2 hours I would have brought a box and some packaging paper too. They let you use their tile saws to trim up your pieces. If we didn’t have a tight schedule we would have stayed the day. Our two hours did not count the upfront instructions or the sawing afterwards. We had a senior and a 11yr old with and they loved it too.
Red Pidjen
2 years ago
We spent a Saturday looking for fossils and had SO much fun!! The guides were friendly and informative. They really know their stuff! We found a lot of fossils and had a great time. They even cut your fossils out of the large rocks so they can be easily displayed. Such a great time for our family. Beautiful area, too! We plan on going back!!
Beverly Hanson
2 years ago
Had a great experience finding more fish fossils than we had expected. Employees were extremely helpful both in showing how to go about finding the fossils and explaining to us what we found. Will definitely return.
Bill Alexander
2 years ago
What a great day found 20 fish and part of a paddle fish the people are so helpful and friendly loved every minute of it
Clifford Ayers
2 years ago
Amazing fossil site, staffed by some very knowledgeable individuals. Although most of my specimens that I found were small fish I noticed that other people around me were really scoring big on some nice specimens. I would certainly recommend this fossil site for anyone looking to gain some experience. Highlight of my experience was learning how to clean and identify fossils that were not exposed.
Hailey Guillemette
2 years ago
I had been here once before, years ago. Although the business has changed, the atmosphere was friendly, the people were helpful and everything was great! Highly recommend this place!!
Karleen Taylor
2 years ago
We had a lot of fun! Shonda, helped check us in and explained the rules. She is very friendly. Kadan and Afton, employees, walked around and answered all our questions, they got excited with us as we found fossils. They even helped us when needed. Kianu, cleaned up our fossils and made them look beautiful. Each of the employees were kind to everyone digging. They let us go at our own pace. We had a member of our family get a finger smashed pretty good. All of the employees kept calmed and attended first aid quickly and kept us grounded and even helped us laugh to stay calm. They took good care of us and made sure we got all our fossils when some of us had to leave early.
Karleen Taylor
2 years ago
Everyone is super nice especially the office lady!
They are all super helpful and I can't wait to go back.
They are all super helpful and I can't wait to go back.
Stephanie Kennedy
2 years ago
We had a blast finding fossils at Fossil Lake Safari! Everyone was super helpful and friendly too. We did 4 hours and it was about perfect for us. They have everything you need there to find the fossils. I am happy we brought gloves but I wish we would have also brought knee pads or a pad to sit on.
Gregory Wilson
2 years ago
This was an amazing experience and I could see it being super fun for people with kids. I went by myself on a whim and spent the entire day open to close there. If you've ever wanted to pan for gold but with fossils this is an experience. The staff was incredibly friendly and showed me the ropes and were as happy as I was to see anything I found. Keanu helped me throughout my day and was insanely knowledgeable in everything I had a question on (and I had a lot of them). Unfortunately I can only give 5 stars, if I could I'd give 10.
Jerry R
2 years ago
Great fun, great staff, and hard work! I decided to try a fossil hunt here, this Tuesday, and was happy that I did. The staff -- especially Tim and Afton, with whom I most interacted -- was super-friendly and helpful. I found some very nice specimens, which they trimmed with big saws before I left. It was a day well spent - and it taught me never to be on a chain gang, especially one tasked with breaking rocks all day. Ha!
Chris Dunn
2 years ago
I recently did a four hour dig at Fossil Lake Safari and had a great time. It exceeded my expectations. I brought home 25-30 fossils. The people running it were so nice and helpful and made sure everyone got started out right and found fossils. I could have spent all day there for sure. I’ll be back.
Mel s
2 years ago
Had a great time on Tuesday and special thanks to Tim for your help and the rest of the staff for your patience with helping us. Will be back someday to catch that whopper fish!
Cheri Pickett
2 years ago
This was such a fantastic experience! The staff is knowledgeable and friendly. It was so much fun to find fossils and hear others give shouts of joy when they found one! Thank you, Fossil Lake Safari!
Linda Chu
2 years ago
Taking a break from this internet age thriving for instant rewards, we spent a day with Fossil Lake Safari, taking away a tactile, fun and engaging Cenozoic adventure.
Following the directions on the website, we took a scenic drive to the quarry. Upon arrival, friendly staff greeted us, gave us tools, explained and showed us what to do. Matt, the owner of the operation, demonstrated how to split rocks and patiently explained everything ranging from the how-to's, geological formation to fossils. Others at the quarry were also friendly and very knowledgeable as well. We found quite a few fossils, with my daughter having the best of luck of finding a rare partial heliobatis (stingray), all of which we got to take home.
We brought our own lunch (sandwiches from the Opera House Store were great), and the Safari had snacks and spring water, which actually did taste better than tap water!
It was a fun, enriching and rewarding experience, one entirely different from our daily experiences. I asked my daughter if she'd go back again, and the answer was yes. Well, I think we will be back!
Following the directions on the website, we took a scenic drive to the quarry. Upon arrival, friendly staff greeted us, gave us tools, explained and showed us what to do. Matt, the owner of the operation, demonstrated how to split rocks and patiently explained everything ranging from the how-to's, geological formation to fossils. Others at the quarry were also friendly and very knowledgeable as well. We found quite a few fossils, with my daughter having the best of luck of finding a rare partial heliobatis (stingray), all of which we got to take home.
We brought our own lunch (sandwiches from the Opera House Store were great), and the Safari had snacks and spring water, which actually did taste better than tap water!
It was a fun, enriching and rewarding experience, one entirely different from our daily experiences. I asked my daughter if she'd go back again, and the answer was yes. Well, I think we will be back!
matthew harrell
2 years ago
I tried two different quarries on this trip. I had fun at both, but I found WAY more fish at this quarry. The staff was very friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable. I can't recommend these guys enough. If you want to dig fish and guarantee finding some SWEET fossils, then I'd highly recommend visiting this quarry.
KIM HEATON
2 years ago
It was a great experience from checking in to getting a spot to split rock. Everyone is super friendly and loves being out there. The guides were fun, very helpful and informative. I had plenty of rock to split and found lots of great fish! Plus there was snacks, coffee, cocoa and spring water available. I’ll definitely be returning!
Mary Jones
2 years ago
We had a great Saturday trip to Gossil Safari. We found plenty of fish and a couple of snails. Everyone was very helpful.
John Watkin
2 years ago
Stop what you’re doing and make a reservation to go to Fossil Safari right now!!!
I’m an amateur paleontologist and I had always wanted to dig fish fossils. A friend of mine discovered Fossil Safari and he made reservations for us.
The directions to the quarry are perfect. Driving out to the quarry is part of the adventure! During the 20 minute drive you will be sharing the road with hundreds of cows and sheep.
We arrived at the quarry at 8 AM right when they opened. We were immediately greeted by several staff members who welcomed us and taught us the procedure for splitting open the rock containing the fossilized fish.
During the day, staff members would stop by frequently to ask if we needed any help or have any questions. I simply can’t say enough about the staff. Everyone was knowledgeable, friendly, engaging and just super nice to spend a day with. It was reminiscent of summer camp. I’m calling it fossil camp!
The facility is top-notch. They have a store where you can buy sodas and get water. They also sell fossil books and T-shirts.
By the end of the day we had over 100 magnificent fossil fish to take home with us. We could not have had a better experience. I really can’t think of any suggestion that would make Fossil Safari better!
Thank you Fossil Safari! We will be back!
John, Jim and Kendon
I’m an amateur paleontologist and I had always wanted to dig fish fossils. A friend of mine discovered Fossil Safari and he made reservations for us.
The directions to the quarry are perfect. Driving out to the quarry is part of the adventure! During the 20 minute drive you will be sharing the road with hundreds of cows and sheep.
We arrived at the quarry at 8 AM right when they opened. We were immediately greeted by several staff members who welcomed us and taught us the procedure for splitting open the rock containing the fossilized fish.
During the day, staff members would stop by frequently to ask if we needed any help or have any questions. I simply can’t say enough about the staff. Everyone was knowledgeable, friendly, engaging and just super nice to spend a day with. It was reminiscent of summer camp. I’m calling it fossil camp!
The facility is top-notch. They have a store where you can buy sodas and get water. They also sell fossil books and T-shirts.
By the end of the day we had over 100 magnificent fossil fish to take home with us. We could not have had a better experience. I really can’t think of any suggestion that would make Fossil Safari better!
Thank you Fossil Safari! We will be back!
John, Jim and Kendon
Karen Crawford
2 years ago
We had the best time. We signed up for half day but could have stay longer! Thank you for the great time.
Gretchen Northcott
2 years ago
This was such a fun activity! I went with some of my family and we did the half day dig. It was well worth our time… we found some amazing fossils! The staff were super helpful, knowledgeable and friendly. Definitely wear gloves, long pants and a hat. Bring plenty of water. This is an activity I would do again!
Derek Nyberg
2 years ago
This was such a fun family adventure! My kids were completely entertained, as were the adults! The staff is friendly and informative. Someone was always walking around making sure to help us! You get so busy breaking rocks the hours just fly by!
Jesse Davis
2 years ago
I had a recent private dig with these awesome folks. We found more fossils than we could carry lol. We found lots of fish and a croc tooth and croc "poop". Every member of the staff was professional, friendly and just fun to be around. Most of our day was spent with Keanu and he was so good with everyone in the family. I ended up having an unrelated health emergency and these folks were on it. They stayed by my side and kept me going until an ambulance picked me up. Many thanks to Doug and his wife for their care while waiting, I know it made a huge difference. These people are truly amazing and when I get my issues resolved I will be back!!!! Seriously, this place is THE place I will recommend!
Caroline Dunn
2 years ago
We had a fantastic time at this extremely well-run and organized quarry! We are total beginners, a family of 4 with two 7 years old girls, who had a blast looking for fossils. The entire staff is incredibly friendly, knowledgeable, and helpful. We spent a full morning there of about 4 to 5 hours and our girls did not want to leave! They supply gloves, glasses, chisels, and hammers and expert instruction. Bring lots of water and sunscreen and prepare to get dusty! We especially appreciated the knowledge and help of Afton, one of the experts at the quarry, who patiently guided my girls and helped them open a huge rock to find 3 beautiful fish. It was the highlight of their trip! If you love fossils and are looking for a fun family activity this is the place! We are loaded down with beautiful fossils to take back to Houston, Texas!
Bill Evans
2 years ago
Fun time, found some nice fish.
?
2 years ago
We traveled to this place in early June and it was astonishing! The people were so kind and patient with us showing us how to split the rocks and what to look for! We learned quite a bit from them in just the short time we were there! Would love to revisit and hear some more jokes from the tiny foreman someday!!
Nebraska Man
2 years ago
Definitely worth the admission. We found a lot of high quality fish and even a partial croc tooth. The people running the quarry were extremely helpful and kind. We have done three trips to Kemmerer for fish fossils, including both public quarries, and this was easily the best experience we have had!
Evan Livadas
2 years ago
Had an amazing experience! Doug and Keanu were super attentive and knowledgeable. Half day was plenty to find some nice fossil fish. Brought gloves based on past reviews but didn’t use them… Would have rather brought knee pads or small stool, either way super doable without. Could see a bandana or face mask being 100% needed if windy.
Ariel Betts
2 years ago
Spent the last two days visiting this quarry. The first day we spent the full 8 hours. We learned a ton about the fish, turtles and other species found in the quarry. We enjoyed ourselves so much we came back for a second day. All the staff at the quarry were super knowledgeable and helpful! We came home with a ton of awesome fossils. We can’t wait for our next trip.
Kalena Popson
2 years ago
If you are in the area check them out but do NOT follow Google gps to get there. Use the directions from the website. Made the drive and my 3 and 1/2 year old and husband had fun smashing the rock to find fossils. Definitely want to layer up as it was quite windy when we went.
Gingerwalker
3 years ago
A life long dream come true at the age of 59. I am still so delighted over getting to do this.
While this review might have some whining in it. I absolutely do not regret coming here and highly recommend it. But there is a learning curve. So please learn from our mistakes.
1 negative that is not this places' fault.
DO NOT FOLLOW YOUR GPS without really checking into it first. We were coming from Afton WY and our GPS had us turn on to the most awful washed out dirt road I have ever been on in my life. I think it was about 7 miles later we encounter a closed gate with a sign telling us no access to the quarry and it had directions on how to get to the quarry from Kemmerer. Yikes! LOL so we risked our vehicle back down that horrible road to get back on the hwy. Thank goodness we did not damage our vehicle. Sadly that debacle with that GPS misdirection lost us a hour that was planned for digging. :'(
You really want to head there from Kemmerer.
The quarry is a long ways down a well maintained dirt road. We checked in, were provided with gloves, a chisel and a hammer. We were given a quick instruction on how to split the rock and find fossils. We were directed to lines of rocks laid out and asked to stay away from the quarry walls and set free to find what we could find. At this point it really is just down to luck.
We made it there with only 3 hours before they closed. But with the heat and sun I don't think we could of done 4 hours. It was in the afternoon.
I was so worn out. I still had not gotten my perfect fossil. I told myself that the rock I grabbed was going to have to be the last one for the day. Bingo, perfect negative and positive fish!!
Then we brought our discoveries to be cut down and reloaded our stuff.
I do regret that was that I was so wore out. As there were plenty of fossils we found that we were just too dang tired to haul over and load up. I now really wish we would have suffered thru loading them up. Because I wish I had them. Especially when you see how much rock shops sell these things for. Lessons learned.
We ended up so sore from lifting rocks and hammering that we did not even go to the other quarry the next day as we had originally planned to do.
When we retire, this place is most definitely on our list of places to come back to!!
But next time I am going to be sure we are taking the correct route. Will be going in the morning or when it will be under 80 degrees and has a breeze. And take pain killers before starting our hammering away.
WELL WORTH EVERYTHING INVOLVED
While this review might have some whining in it. I absolutely do not regret coming here and highly recommend it. But there is a learning curve. So please learn from our mistakes.
1 negative that is not this places' fault.
DO NOT FOLLOW YOUR GPS without really checking into it first. We were coming from Afton WY and our GPS had us turn on to the most awful washed out dirt road I have ever been on in my life. I think it was about 7 miles later we encounter a closed gate with a sign telling us no access to the quarry and it had directions on how to get to the quarry from Kemmerer. Yikes! LOL so we risked our vehicle back down that horrible road to get back on the hwy. Thank goodness we did not damage our vehicle. Sadly that debacle with that GPS misdirection lost us a hour that was planned for digging. :'(
You really want to head there from Kemmerer.
The quarry is a long ways down a well maintained dirt road. We checked in, were provided with gloves, a chisel and a hammer. We were given a quick instruction on how to split the rock and find fossils. We were directed to lines of rocks laid out and asked to stay away from the quarry walls and set free to find what we could find. At this point it really is just down to luck.
We made it there with only 3 hours before they closed. But with the heat and sun I don't think we could of done 4 hours. It was in the afternoon.
I was so worn out. I still had not gotten my perfect fossil. I told myself that the rock I grabbed was going to have to be the last one for the day. Bingo, perfect negative and positive fish!!
Then we brought our discoveries to be cut down and reloaded our stuff.
I do regret that was that I was so wore out. As there were plenty of fossils we found that we were just too dang tired to haul over and load up. I now really wish we would have suffered thru loading them up. Because I wish I had them. Especially when you see how much rock shops sell these things for. Lessons learned.
We ended up so sore from lifting rocks and hammering that we did not even go to the other quarry the next day as we had originally planned to do.
When we retire, this place is most definitely on our list of places to come back to!!
But next time I am going to be sure we are taking the correct route. Will be going in the morning or when it will be under 80 degrees and has a breeze. And take pain killers before starting our hammering away.
WELL WORTH EVERYTHING INVOLVED
sean wright (Hunting Colorado)
5 years ago
This place is awesome. For starters the manager George was really great! He was extremely patient and helpful. My three year old bothered him most of the morning and he was fantastic. He answered all of our questions and made sure that we had an all around excellent experience. We found a tons of fossils. My one suggestion to people would be to go for 4 hours or longer. Any less time than that and you aren’t doing yourself or this place justice. We will be doing a larger family trip next year.