Discover the thrill of fossil hunting at Penn Dixie with Hamburg Natural History Society, where ancient fossils tell stories from over 370 million years ago and create unforgettable moments for all ages.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness needed; ability to walk and bend comfortably
Wildlife
History
Penn Dixie was once a significant part of the ancient Devonian reef system, now exposed as fossil-rich sediment layers.
Conservation
The site emphasizes sustainable fossil collecting, encouraging visitors to responsibly excavate and avoid damaging the natural environment.
Hamburg Natural History Society, Inc.
Discover the thrill of fossil hunting at Penn Dixie with Hamburg Natural History Society, where ancient fossils tell stories from over 370 million years ago and create unforgettable moments for all ages.
Hamburg Natural History Society, Inc. connects visitors with hands-on fossil experiences at the Penn Dixie site. The organization offers guided fossil-hunting programs for families, schools, and small groups that focus on Devonian-era fossils preserved in a 54-acre park. Programs include two-hour public fossil-hunting sessions led by Penn Dixie educators, extended tours that allow collecting until closing, private expeditions for groups up to 10 with tools and a complimentary “Field Guide to the Devonian Paleontology of New York,” birthday party packages with guided collecting and pavilion celebration options, and a Junior Geologist Expedition for ages 5–12 with a special patch.
All programs emphasize safe, educational collecting: participants receive tools and buckets, instruction in finding and preserving fossils, and the right to keep discoveries. Activities run rain or shine and are suitable for beginners and families; the Fossil Hunting for Beginners offering is recommended for ages 7 and up. The Junior Geologist Expedition highlights 380 million-year-old Devonian fossils and combines hands-on collecting with guided interpretation.
Hamburg Natural History Society, Inc. leverages Penn Dixie educators and published field resources to support learning. By providing trained guides, site access, educational materials, and clear group limits, the organization creates repeatable, family-friendly fossil experiences. The combination of guided instruction, take-home finds, and site-specific resources makes these programs attractive for birthday celebrations, school outings, scout groups, and adult fossil enthusiasts seeking a factual, hands-on introduction to Devonian paleontology. Bookings support small groups, classrooms, scout troops, and community organizations seeking educational, hands-on fossil experiences at Penn Dixie park.
Tours Offered
5 experiences
Range of public and private programs
Park Size
54-acre park
Extensive Devonian fossil site
Fossil Age
380 million years
Ancient Devonian specimens
Private Groups
Up to 10
Small-group private expeditions
Reserve a Fossil Hunting for Beginners slot, schedule a Private Expedition, or plan a Junior Geologist or birthday party experience.
Wear sturdy footwear
Ensure you have comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Bring a camera or phone
Capture your fossil finds and scenic views during the tour.
Pack sunscreen and water
Protect yourself from sun exposure and stay hydrated during the outdoor activity.
Arrive early for full experience
Getting there at the start allows more time to search and explore.
Sturdy walking shoes
Good traction and support for uneven terrain at the fossil site.
Flashlight or headlamp
Helpful for illuminating fossil-rich crevices or shaded areas.
Small backpack
Carrying tools, water, and personal items comfortably.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated during outdoor fossil hunting.