Discover the prehistoric world on a fossil hunting tour with Hamburg Natural History Society. Perfect for small groups, this guided adventure offers hands-on discovery and history insights. Read on to learn more!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Any fitness level is suitable, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Wildlife
History
The area has been a significant fossil site since the early 20th century, contributing to our understanding of Devonian ecosystems.
Conservation
The Society emphasizes minimal impact collecting and preservation efforts, advocating for sustainable fossil hunting practices.
Hamburg Natural History Society, Inc.
Discover the prehistoric world on a fossil hunting tour with Hamburg Natural History Society. Perfect for small groups, this guided adventure offers hands-on discovery and history insights. Read on to learn more!
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.
Bring sturdy footwear
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
Prepare for outdoor weather
Check the forecast and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Bring your own water
Stay hydrated during the fossil hunt.
Arrive early
Arriving 15 minutes before start time ensures a smooth experience.
Sturdy Shoes
Good traction footwear for walking on uneven, rocky terrain.
Hat and Sunscreen
Protection from the sun during outdoor exploration.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while outdoors.
Gloves
Optional for handling fossils safely.