What should my child wear to the paleontology experience?

We recommend comfortable, durable clothing and closed-toe shoes that can handle dirt and dust. A hat and sunscreen are important on sunny days.

Are any previous skills required to participate?

No prior skills are necessary. The experience is designed for beginners aged 8 to 11 with guided instruction from experts.

Can parents join or watch the activities?

Yes, parents are welcome to observe and take photos but the excavation and lab work are hands-on for the children only.

What kind of fossils will the kids find?

Participants will excavate real fossils native to the Utah region, including opportunities to take home items like Mosasaur teeth.

Is the experience indoors or outdoors?

The excavation is outdoors, while fossil preparation and lectures take place indoors in a fully equipped lab.

How far in advance should I book?

Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks in advance to secure your child’s spot.

Utah Fossil Dig: Paleontology for Kids in Salem

Step into the fascinating world of ancient life with the American Fossil Paleontology Experience designed specifically for children ages 8 to 11. Located in Salem, Utah, this hands-on adventure offers young explorers the unique chance to excavate real fossils and participate in fossil preparation and restoration activities. Kids will not only uncover genuine fossils but also create a reproduction Elasmosaurus vertebra, making the learning experience both educational and creative. The program includes expert-led tours and engaging lectures in a fully equipped laboratory, ensuring participants gain genuine insight into the science behind paleontology. Each participant can take home unique fossils such as a Mosasaur tooth, making memories that last forever. The experience is ideal for curious young minds and encourages a deep appreciation for natural history and science. With limited spaces available, booking early is advised for families seeking an educational outdoor adventure in one of Utah’s most fossil-rich regions.

About American Fossil

American Fossil operates the American Fossil Quarry in Salem, Utah, offering hands-on fossil hunting and paleontology experiences for families, students, and adult enthusiasts. Participants can book timed digs—Two Hour Dig, Four Hour Dig—or secure a Private Dig Package that includes excavation of two cubic yards of rock. The quarry is unique in that visitors keep every fossil they find, spanning rare fish, reptiles, mammals, and birds from the Green River Formation.

Educational Paleontology Experience programs are offered for ages 8–11, 12–15, and 16 and up, combining field excavation with preparation lab sessions. In the lab, participants learn fossil preparation and restoration techniques, create reproductions like an Elasmosaurus vertebra or a dinosaur skull replica, and take home curated specimens such as Mosasaur teeth and Green River fossil fish. American Fossil maintains a professional preparation lab and provides expert-led instruction and safety guidance during field activities.

Bookings are limited to preserve a focused, hands-on environment and ensure staff attention for each group. The business emphasizes factual interpretation of finds and offers takeaway specimens and display stands when included in the experience. Located in central Utah, the quarry enables access to well-preserved Eocene fossils and supports public engagement with paleontology through guided excavation and classroom-style learning. American Fossil’s combination of field access, tangible takeaways, and structured educational programs makes it a reliable choice for visitors seeking an authentic fossil hunting experience. Staff include trained preparators and guides who follow best practices. Reservations online are recommended to secure preferred dates. Contact details are provided.