Discover Fossils Everywhere
Your complete guide to fossil hunting, identification, and collecting across all 50 US states. Find sites near you, learn what's legal, and start your collection today.
Top States for Fossil Hunting
Florida
One of America's best states for fossil collecting. From megalodon teeth on Venice Beach to Ice Age mammal bones in Peace River, Florida offers easy access and incredible diversity.
Maryland
The Calvert Cliffs along the Chesapeake Bay expose millions of Miocene shark teeth, whale bones, and marine fossils. Maryland is one of the East Coast's premier fossil collecting destinations.
Montana
Home to the Hell Creek and Judith River formations, Montana is the ultimate destination for dinosaur fossils. T. rex, Triceratops, and hadrosaurs have all been found here â this is where paleontology history is made.
North Carolina
North Carolina's coastal plain is packed with Miocene shark teeth and Cretaceous marine fossils. The Aurora area and Topsail Island beaches make this a top East Coast collecting destination.
Ohio
A treasure trove of Ordovician marine fossils. Ohio's creek beds and road cuts expose 450-million-year-old trilobites, brachiopods, and crinoids, with several free public collecting sites.
South Dakota
From the White River Badlands teeming with ancient mammal fossils to Hell Creek dinosaur beds in the northwest, South Dakota offers extraordinary fossil diversity across dramatically beautiful landscapes.
What is Fossil Hunting?
Fossil hunting â also called fossil collecting or amateur paleontology â is the hobby of finding and collecting preserved remains of ancient life. From 450-million-year-old trilobites in Ohio creek beds to megalodon shark teeth on Florida beaches, fossils are everywhere if you know where to look.
You don't need a degree or expensive equipment. A rock hammer, some safety glasses, and a little geological knowledge are enough to get started. This site will show you exactly where to go, what's legal to collect, and how to identify what you find.
What Fossil Did I Find?
Found something and not sure what it is? Our interactive quiz walks you through simple questions about shape, texture, and features to help identify your fossil. Try it now or browse our visual ID guides.
What does your fossil look like overall?
Find Fossils in Your State
Every US state has fossils. Search for your state or filter by collecting quality to find sites near you with detailed guides, legal rules, and local clubs.
Find Fossils in Your State
Dinosaur Fossils
Can amateurs find dinosaur fossils? Yes â through commercial dig programs, volunteer expeditions, and private land access. Learn where dinosaurs are found, what's legal, and how to get involved.
Popular Guides
Shark Tooth Hunting Guide
Where to find shark teeth, how to identify species, and the best beaches and rivers for collecting.
Fossil Collecting for Beginners
Everything you need to know to start your first fossil hunting trip, from gear to technique.
Best Rock Hammers
We tested the most popular rock hammers and picks. Here's what's worth your money.
Trilobite Identification
How to identify trilobites, the most popular fossil for collectors, with visual reference photos.
Is It Legal?
Federal and state laws for fossil collecting on public and private land, explained in plain language.
How to Clean Fossils
Step-by-step methods for cleaning, preparing, and preserving your finds without causing damage.
More Resources
Legal Guide
Federal & state collecting laws
FAQ
28 common questions answered
Glossary
60+ paleontology terms defined
Formations
Key geological formations guide
Gear Reviews
Hammers, tools, display cases
How-To Guides
Cleaning, prep, field techniques
Blog
Best sites, tips, and news
About
Our mission and approach