Excavate Real Fossils at American Fossil in Salem, Utah

American Fossil — Fossil Hunting in Salem, Utah

American Fossil operates the American Fossil Quarry in Salem, Utah, offering a rare opportunity for visitors to excavate real fossils and keep every specimen they find. The site is widely searched by people looking for fossil digs, Green River Formation fossils, Mosasaur teeth, and authentic paleontology experiences.

Why Book a Dig at the American Fossil Quarry

• Keep every fossil: Unlike many public digs, visitors retain ownership of all discoveries made during excavations.
• Multiple dig formats: Choose a Two Hour Dig, Four Hour Dig, or an extended Private Dig Package that includes excavation of two cubic yards of rock.
• Educational programs: Paleontology Experience courses for ages 8–11, 12–15, and 16+ combine fieldwork with lab preparation and restoration.

What to Expect on a Fossil Dig

Participants arrive at the quarry in Salem, Utah, receive safety and site orientation, and use field tools to uncover fossils from Eocene deposits associated with the Green River Formation. Common finds include fossil fish, reptile remains, bird fragments, and occasionally larger mammal material. Staff provide guidance on proper excavation techniques, identification, and conservation.

Paleontology Experience Details

American Fossil’s paleontology courses offer hands-on lab instruction in fossil preparation and restoration. Examples of activities include creating a dinosaur skull replica, preparing a reproduction Elasmosaurus vertebra, and learning to stabilize and display specimens. Programs include take-home fossils such as Mosasaur teeth and Green River fossil fish when specified in the itinerary.

Ideal Audiences and Group Types

• Families looking for interactive outdoor activities
• School groups and youth programs seeking STEM and paleontology curriculum support
• Adult enthusiasts and collectors searching for private dig opportunities
• Visitors to central Utah wanting authentic, guided fossil-hunting experiences

Booking and Practical Information

Bookings are recommended due to limited group sizes and scheduled lab sessions. Private Dig Packages provide extended excavation time and the ability to process two cubic yards of material at a visitor’s own pace. The quarry’s location in Salem, Utah gives access to well-preserved Eocene fossil beds.

Search Keywords to Know

American Fossil, American Fossil Quarry, fossil hunting Salem Utah, fossil dig Utah, Green River Formation fossils, Mosasaur tooth dig, Elasmosaurus vertebra, private fossil dig, hands-on paleontology experience.

Plan a visit to American Fossil to experience guided excavations, professional lab instruction, and the unmatched opportunity to keep and display genuine fossils discovered during a quarry dig.