Adventure Brief
Join a private, guided fossil hunting tour in Arcadia, Florida's serene Peace River Oaks. Explore exclusive dig spots and uncover ancient treasures with expert guidance.
4 hours
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Join a private, guided fossil hunting tour in Arcadia, Florida's serene Peace River Oaks. Explore exclusive dig spots and uncover ancient treasures with expert guidance.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to navigate uneven terrain and participate actively in digging and hiking small distances.
Wildlife
History
Peace River is renowned for its rich fossil deposits dating back millions of years, revealing ancient marine life and prehistoric mammals.
Conservation
Fossil Recovery Exploration practices sustainable digging to preserve the site’s natural environment and encourages minimal impact tourism.
Fossil Recovery Exploration
Join a private, guided fossil hunting tour in Arcadia, Florida's serene Peace River Oaks. Explore exclusive dig spots and uncover ancient treasures with expert guidance.
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 sturdy, closed-toe shoes
The terrain can be uneven with roots and loose soil, so shoes that provide good support and protection are recommended.
Bring a refillable water bottle
Hydration is key during your 4-hour tour, especially in Florida's warm climate.
Apply insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other bugs can be active, especially during dawn and dusk hours.
Charge your camera or phone
You’ll want to capture your fossil finds and the beautiful nature around you, so come prepared.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Protects your feet and provides stability on uneven ground during the dig.
Wide-brimmed hat
Helps shield your face and neck from intense Florida sun.
summer
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and other insects away for a comfortable tour.
spring
Reusable water bottle
Ensures you stay hydrated during your outdoor fossil hunt.