Discover the fascinating world of fossils while paddling through Florida’s scenic waterways in Arcadia. This guided adventure combines fossil hunting with canoeing for a truly unique outdoor experience. Keep reading to learn more!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate paddling involved
Wildlife
History
Arcadia has a rich pioneer history with many relics dating back to the 19th century, adding context to the fossil finds.
Conservation
Fossil Recovery Exploration emphasizes sustainable practices, ensuring the preservation of natural habitats and archaeological sites.
Fossil Recovery Exploration
Discover the fascinating world of fossils while paddling through Florida’s scenic waterways in Arcadia. This guided adventure combines fossil hunting with canoeing for a truly unique outdoor experience. Keep reading to learn more!
Fossil Recovery Exploration is a field-based fossil hunting outfitter based in Arcadia, Florida. The company runs guided canoe digs, airboat and swamp buggy adventures, and private tours across Peace River properties and other fossil-rich land in Central Florida. Guides lead guests on multi-hour expeditions—ranging from 4- to 6-hour digs, 5-hour canoe tours, and specialized 30-minute swamp buggy segments—providing top-notch equipment, PRO canoes, and educational interpretation during each trip. Tours include the Canoe Outpost Guided Fossil Dig and Paddle, Peace River Oaks guided canoe digs with access to 70 acres and glamping cabins with AC, private Peace River/Wauchula walk-in digs with 7 acres of exclusive terrain, airboat 'Boneshelf' Ice Age fossil digs, and premium airboat and swamp buggy dig experiences. Fossil Recovery Exploration emphasizes safe, small-group experiences and private bookings for families or private groups to maximize discovery time without other guests. Participants can expect to hunt for shark teeth, megalodon teeth, Ice Age mammal and reptile bones, and other fossils while observing native wildlife in natural settings. Equipment, including canoes and sifting tools, is provided on guided trips. The operation works on the Peace River and nearby sites in Central Florida and focuses on hands‑on excavation, interpretation of finds, and responsible outdoor access. Guests are encouraged to book specific trip types—canoe, airboat, or swamp buggy—based on desired pace, accessibility, and group size.
Reservations are recommended year-round; seasonal water levels and wildlife sightings affect trip conditions, and guides adjust itineraries to prioritize safety, fossil access, and a rich educational memorable experience.
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
Range of canoe, airboat, swamp buggy trips
Private Groups
Private bookings
Book exclusive tours for your group
Peace River Access
70 acres
Includes Peace River Oaks 70-acre property
Equipment Provided
PRO canoes & tools
All necessary gear included on guided trips
Book a guided canoe, airboat, or swamp buggy fossil hunt in Arcadia, FL — private tours and equipment available for every group.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking on uneven terrain during fossil digs.
Bring Sun Protection
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses will help protect you from the Florida sun during your outdoor adventure.
Pack Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized by bringing plenty of water and light snacks for the trip.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals quietly and avoid disturbing their natural habitat while paddling or exploring.
Sun Protection
Helps prevent sunburn during extended outdoor time; essential for outdoor activities in Florida.
summer
Waterproof Footwear
Provides grip and protection when walking around fossil sites and uneven terrain.
spring|fall|winter
Light Backpack
Fits your gear, water, and fossils comfortably during paddling and exploration.
Cap or Hat
Protects your face and neck from sun exposure while on the water or fossil digs.
summer|spring