Fossil hunting can be an exciting hobby or vacation activity for history buffs. It’s exciting because it’s a way to open a window to millions of years ago into the age of dinosaurs, megalodon sharks, and ancient plants.
There are some amazing places to go fossil hunting in the world, giving you the chance to hold a piece of treasure that’s been buried for eons. So, pack your tools and head to these parts, where you may win a paleontological jackpot.
Best fossil hunting sites in the world
1. Dorset, UK
The Jurassic Coast in Dorset, UK, is one of the best beaches for fossil collection in the world. It’s a 95-mile stretch from East Devon to Dorset.
It’s one of the major parts of the world where people have found an incredible amount of fossils – so much so that in 2001 it was made the first World Heritage Site in England. The place is known for its limestone cliffs, such as the Durdle Door Arch, made of sedimentary rock layers. And as you probably know, many limestone layers contain fossils of animals and plants.
Newbie paleontologists can collect fossils at the beach, but you are not allowed to chisel them from rocks. Charmouth is considered the best and safest place for amateur paleontologists.
2. Nangetty, Australia
Australia is among the top places to find fossilized remains of mammals, marine animals, and dinosaurs. Coalseam Conservation Park in Nangetty, Australia, is one of the places with fossil diversity for amateur fossil hunters.
Initially, the coal mines in this area were the backbone of the region’s economy. But today, it’s a place to conserve the region’s fossilized marine animals. Riverbend in Nangetty is one of the places with the most fossils in the area. You can also survey limestone cliffs that date back to the Permian era.
Also, the Scenic Fossil Picnic area is great for newbie paleontologists as you enjoy the beautiful scenery.
While in Australia, you can also visit Lightning Ridge Fossil Dig, Flinders Discovery Centre, Kronosaurus Korner, and more.
3. Zigong, China
Zigong has been home to an incredible number of dinosaur finds. This is because of its temperate climate, which is perfect for fossil preservation. That’s why more than 7 million paleontology buffs visit this place every year. Besides fossil hunting, the city is also home to Zigong Dinosaur History Museum, which has fascinating dinosaur finds dating to the Mesozoic and Jurassic eras.
Another exciting display is the open site excavation site with dinosaur fossils (150 million years old) still in the ground.
4. Borre, Denmark
Like the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, Borre is another incredible fossil-rich beach. This small town is known for its well-preserved burial mounds or barrows. The barrows were constructed from about 700 to 1100 AD and were the burial sites for Viking chieftains and their families.
Besides the barrows, you can go fossil hunting at the remote GeoCentre called Mons Klint. This area was once covered by a shallow sea, making it a perfect place to find fossils of shells, corals, and crinoids. Borre also has a 450-million-year-old trilobite which is the oldest find in Denmark.
Remember, because it’s remote, you may have to hike, so prepare ahead.
5. Maryland, USA
This place has 24 miles of Miocene exposure (one of the longest ones in the world). The Calvert Cliffs have incredible amounts of loose fossils for you to discover.
This ‘Dinosaur Park’ continues to preserve the place to allow fossils to be found and protected. You are allowed to explore the park all day long. But remember you won’t be allowed to take any finds outside the park so if you have a young one tell them beforehand so they won’t be disappointed.
6. Western Cape, South Africa
South African parks and preserves are excellent for fossil tours, walks, and hunting. If you are an amateur paleontologist, you can have the perfect opportunity to witness open-site excavations at The West Coast Fossil Park in Western Cape. It is home to over 200 fossilized animals from 5.2 million years ago.
However, you are not allowed to collect fossils.
Hunting fossils responsibly
Most amateur fossil hunters don’t know the basic guidelines for fossil hunting. Generally, you aren’t allowed to collect fossils because they may affect cultural, environmental, and scientific sites.
Amateur fossil hunting has its pros and cons, so it’s important to understand the best tips for fossil hunting. They include getting permission, using the right equipment, leaving some for future hunters, and labeling your finds (and taking lots of photos before and after excavation). Above all, stay safe and avoid fossil hunting alone.
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