Fossil Lake Safari – Kemmerer, Wyoming

Overview

Fossil Lake Safari is a one-of-a-kind paleontological adventure based in Kemmerer, Wyoming, offering visitors the chance to uncover fossils from the world-famous Green River Formation. This area, often referred to as Fossil Lake, was once a subtropical freshwater lake teeming with fish, plants, and reptiles some 50 million years ago. Today, it’s one of the richest fossil beds in the world, and Fossil Lake Safari allows participants to dig for authentic specimens such as fish, insects, plants, and even rare finds like stingrays or crocodiles. More than just a fossil dig, the experience combines hands-on discovery with science education, making it an unforgettable adventure for families, amateur paleontologists, and curious travelers alike.

Why Visit

• Dig for real 50-million-year-old fossils in a world-renowned quarry
• Learn about the Green River Formation and its significance to paleontology
• Keep most of the fossils you find, with guidance on identifying and preserving them
• Enjoy a family-friendly outdoor adventure in Wyoming’s scenic high desert
• Combine science education with the thrill of hands-on discovery

Highlights

• Guided Fossil Digs: Experienced staff teach visitors how to split limestone and uncover perfectly preserved fossils
• Green River Formation: A fossil-rich deposit that holds an incredible record of Eocene life, from tiny fish to palm fronds
• Keep Your Finds: Guests usually take home several fossil specimens, often including Knightia fish (Wyoming’s state fossil)
• Rare Discoveries: Lucky diggers sometimes unearth turtles, stingrays, and crocodilian fossils
• Family-Friendly: Tools, safety equipment, and educational support are provided, making it accessible to all ages

History & Cultural Significance

The Fossil Lake area was once part of a series of interconnected lakes in western North America during the Eocene epoch, about 50 million years ago. These lakes supported a rich ecosystem, and their fine-grained limestone sediments preserved an astonishing variety of organisms in exquisite detail. The site has been a treasure trove for scientists since the late 19th century, offering insights into prehistoric climate, geology, and biodiversity. Today, through responsible tourism and regulated quarries, places like Fossil Lake Safari make it possible for the public to experience this paleontological wonder firsthand while learning the importance of fossil preservation.

Typical Costs & Tickets

Pricing at Fossil Lake Safari typically ranges from $75–$125 USD per person for a half-day dig, with discounted rates for children. Full-day digs are available for around $150–$200 USD, depending on the season and package. Private group tours and family experiences can be arranged at higher rates. All tools, equipment, and fossil identification guidance are included in the ticket price. Visitors are allowed to keep most of the fossils they uncover, though exceptionally rare or scientifically significant finds may be reserved for research or museum collections.

Best Time to Visit

The fossil quarries are open seasonally, usually from late May through early September, when Wyoming’s weather is most favorable. Summer is the most popular time, with long days perfect for fossil hunting, though July and August can be hot—visitors should bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Early mornings and late afternoons tend to be cooler and more comfortable. Advanced reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and peak summer months.

Nearby Experiences

Kemmerer, the town closest to Fossil Lake Safari, is itself rich in history—it’s the birthplace of the J.C. Penney Company and home to the original J.C. Penney store. Other nearby attractions include Fossil Butte National Monument, a protected area showcasing some of the best Green River Formation fossils on display. Outdoor enthusiasts can also explore the high desert landscapes, go fishing in local rivers, or take scenic drives through southwestern Wyoming. For a broader trip, visitors often combine a fossil dig with stops in Yellowstone National Park or Grand Teton National Park, both within a few hours’ drive.

Travel Tips

• Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing—you’ll be outdoors on rocky terrain
• Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks; shade is limited in the quarry
• Expect to get dusty—many visitors bring hats, gloves, and a change of clothes
• Book early, as Fossil Lake Safari is a seasonal and highly sought-after experience
• Be patient—splitting rocks takes practice, but the reward of finding your first fossil is worth it

Fun Facts & Local Legends

• Knightia, a small schooling fish commonly found in the Green River Formation, is Wyoming’s official state fossil
• The fossils here are so well-preserved that even delicate features like fish fins and plant leaves are often visible
• Fossil Lake was once larger than modern-day Lake Geneva in Europe
• Every year, thousands of fossils from this region end up in museums and private collections around the world