Adventure Brief
Join an exciting 6-hour fossil digging adventure along the Peace River via airboat. Uncover hidden treasures and learn about Florida’s ancient past in a scenic outdoor setting.
6 hours
moderate
Family Friendly
No Experience Required
Join an exciting 6-hour fossil digging adventure along the Peace River via airboat. Uncover hidden treasures and learn about Florida’s ancient past in a scenic outdoor setting.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in reasonable physical shape to enjoy the digging activity and short outdoor walk.
Wildlife
History
The Peace River has been a significant site for fossil discoveries since the early 20th century, revealing remains from ancient megafauna.
Conservation
The operation emphasizes ethical fossil collection and respects local ecosystems, contributing to ongoing conservation efforts.
Fossil Recovery Exploration
Join an exciting 6-hour fossil digging adventure along the Peace River via airboat. Uncover hidden treasures and learn about Florida’s ancient past in a scenic outdoor setting.
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 footwear
Closed-toe shoes are recommended for safety and comfort during excavation.
Bring sun protection
Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen will help you stay comfortable during the outdoor adventure.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to keep yourself refreshed throughout the day.
Listen to guide instructions
Guides provide important safety tips and insights; attentive listening enhances the experience.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
Essential for protecting yourself from the sun during outdoor excavation.
summer
Sturdy footwear
Provides safety and comfort on uneven ground in the excavation sites.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the day of fossil hunting.
Field notebook and pen
Useful for taking notes about fossils or geological layers.