Organized Fossil Hunting Excursions for the Public

Between the months of May through October, Stratford Hall offers monthly fossil hunting excursions that are open for public registration. Excursions last approximately 6 hours, weather permitting. During these trips, participants are accompanied by Stratford Hall employees and/or volunteer guides and given access to the restricted area of the beach which includes approximately 2 and half miles of riverfront.

Fossil hunting excursions are designed so that participants can set their own pace dependent upon their experience level and physical abilities. However, we do rate our fossil hunting excursions at a moderately strenuous activity level. Trips involve long periods of standing and walking, crossing slick or uneven surfaces, climbing over and/or under downed trees, and wading in water. Due to changes in weather conditions, water levels, and the influence of tides there are portions of the beach that may not be accessible at all by foot.

Group sizes are approximately 40 participants per trip. Please be aware that while there are guides available during these excursions to ensure guest safety and assist with fossil hunting tips and identification, we do not classify these as “guided” experiences as the ratio of participants to guides is typically 7:1. 

Signed waivers and participation in a safety lecture are required of all who attend. All participants must be at least 8 years of age to attend and any participant under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.