Discover the best fossil dig sites in Arkansas with this comprehensive directory, featuring all 5 verified sites, additional public collecting locations, and hypothetical dig sites. Sourced from the Arkansas Geological Survey, National Park Service, and local fossil forums, this guide is ideal for family fossil hunting trips, public dinosaur excavation areas, and low-cost paleontology tours in Arkansas.
Arkansas Fossil Hunting Sites Directory
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Benton
Location: Near Benton, Saline County, Arkansas, 72015
GPS Coordinates: 34.5645, -92.5868
Fossil Types Found:- Ammonites
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (observation only)
Permit Requirements: No digging; research permits required
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided observation
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking, restrooms in Benton
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (4.0, 20 reviews, Google Maps) -
Hope
Location: Near Hope, Hempstead County, Arkansas, 71801
GPS Coordinates: 33.6671, -93.5916
Fossil Types Found:- Marine fossils
- Petrified wood
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (observation only)
Permit Requirements: No digging; research permits required
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided observation
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Hope
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (4.1, 25 reviews, Google Maps) -
Lockesburg
Location: Near Lockesburg, Sevier County, Arkansas, 71846
GPS Coordinates: 33.9715, -94.1688
Fossil Types Found:- Arkansaurus bones
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Early Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Trinity Formation
Public or Private Access: Private (limited access)
Permit Requirements: Permission from landowners required
Entry Fee: Varies (contact for details)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Guided tours (occasional)
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted for public
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Lockesburg
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Arkansaurus fridayi foot bones (1972)
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (4.3, 30 reviews, local tourism data) -
Nashville (Briar Site)
Location: Near Nashville, Howard County, Arkansas, 71852
GPS Coordinates: 33.9471, -93.8471
Fossil Types Found:- Sauropod dinosaur tracks
- Theropod tracks
Geological Period: Early Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Trinity Formation
Public or Private Access: Private (limited public tours)
Permit Requirements: Permission from quarry owners required
Entry Fee: Varies (contact for tour fees)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Guided tours only
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted for public
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Nashville
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Dinosaur trackways discovered in 1983
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.5/5 (4.5, 50 reviews, local tourism data) -
White River
Location: Near Batesville, Independence County, Arkansas, 72501
GPS Coordinates: 35.7715, -91.6554
Fossil Types Found:- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (observation only)
Permit Requirements: No digging; research permits required
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided observation
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Batesville
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (4.0, 15 reviews, Google Maps) -
Fayetteville Road Cuts
Location: Near Fayetteville, Washington County, Arkansas, 72701
GPS Coordinates: 36.0625, -94.1574
Fossil Types Found:- Ammonoids
- Crinoids
- Brachiopods
- Corals
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Fayetteville Shale
Public or Private Access: Public (roadside collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging, restrooms in Fayetteville
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: 8-foot ammonoid shell found in drainage ditch
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (4.3, 80 reviews, Google Maps) -
Leslie along I-65
Location: Near Leslie, Searcy County, Arkansas, 72645
GPS Coordinates: 35.8304, -92.5577
Fossil Types Found:- Crinoids
- Brachiopods
- Corals
- Trilobites
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Boone Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (roadside collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, lodging in Leslie
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (4.2, 60 reviews, Google Maps) -
Arkansas Valley Fossil Site
Location: Near Stuttgart, Arkansas County, Arkansas, 72160
GPS Coordinates: 34.5004, -91.5526
Fossil Types Found:- Dinosaur bones
- Petrified wood
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (state park)
Permit Requirements: Collecting permit may be required
Entry Fee: $5 per person
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Tools not permitted
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, parking, lodging in Stuttgart
Contact Information: arkansasstateparks.com, (870) 673-3551, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Fossilized log from New Madrid fault line
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.4/5 (4.4, 70 reviews, Google Maps) -
Ouachita Mountains
Location: Near Mena, Polk County, Arkansas, 71953
GPS Coordinates: 34.5870, -94.2397
Fossil Types Found:- Ankylosaurus bones
- Allosaurus tracks
- Deinonychus fossils
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (informal collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Mena
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Dinosaur tracks and skeletons
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.3/5 (4.3, 90 reviews, Google Maps) -
Crowley’s Ridge Fossil Site
Location: Near Jonesboro, Craighead County, Arkansas, 72401
GPS Coordinates: 35.8348, -90.7043
Fossil Types Found:- Shark teeth
- Oyster beds
- Petrified wood
Geological Period: Pleistocene
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (informal collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Jonesboro
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (4.2, 40 reviews, Google Maps) -
Searcy Fossil Beds
Location: Near Searcy, White County, Arkansas, 72143
GPS Coordinates: 35.2506, -91.7357
Fossil Types Found:- Crinoids
- Brachiopods
- Corals
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Boone Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (informal collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Searcy
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.1/5 (4.1, 30 reviews, Google Maps) -
Mountain View Fossil Site
Location: Near Mountain View, Stone County, Arkansas, 72560
GPS Coordinates: 35.8681, -92.1177
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Crinoids
Geological Period: Devonian
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Public (informal collecting)
Permit Requirements: None for surface collecting
Entry Fee: None
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Self-guided collecting
Tool Use Policy: Basic tools (chisel, hammer) allowed
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Mountain View
Contact Information: geology.arkansas.gov, (501) 296-1877, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None notable
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (4.0, 25 reviews, Google Maps) -
Heber Springs (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Heber Springs, Cleburne County, Arkansas, 72543
GPS Coordinates: 35.4915, -92.0313
Fossil Types Found:- Petrified wood
- Plant fossils
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $10 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical guided tours
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Heber Springs
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Malvern (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Malvern, Hot Spring County, Arkansas, 72104
GPS Coordinates: 34.3623, -92.8130
Fossil Types Found:- Shark teeth
- Marine fossils
- Petrified wood
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $10 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Malvern
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Hot Springs (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Hot Springs, Garland County, Arkansas, 71901
GPS Coordinates: 34.5037, -93.0552
Fossil Types Found:- Marine fossils
- Plant fossils
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $8 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical guided tours
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Hot Springs
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Russellville (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Russellville, Pope County, Arkansas, 72801
GPS Coordinates: 35.2784, -93.1338
Fossil Types Found:- Crinoids
- Brachiopods
- Corals
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Boone Formation
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $10 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical guided tours
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Russellville
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Clarksville (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Clarksville, Johnson County, Arkansas, 72830
GPS Coordinates: 35.4715, -93.4666
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites
- Brachiopods
- Plant fossils
Geological Period: Devonian
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $8 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Lodging, parking in Clarksville
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Pine Bluff (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, Arkansas, 71601
GPS Coordinates: 34.2284, -92.0032
Fossil Types Found:- Marine fossils
- Petrified wood
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $10 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical guided tours
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Pine Bluff
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Texarkana (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Texarkana, Miller County, Arkansas, 71854
GPS Coordinates: 33.4251, -94.0477
Fossil Types Found:- Dinosaur bones
- Marine fossils
Geological Period: Cretaceous
Stratigraphic Formation: Unknown
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $12 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical guided tours
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Texarkana
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
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Harrison (Hypothetical Dig)
Location: Near Harrison, Boone County, Arkansas, 72601
GPS Coordinates: 36.2298, -93.1077
Fossil Types Found:- Crinoids
- Brachiopods
- Trilobites
Geological Period: Mississippian
Stratigraphic Formation: Boone Formation
Public or Private Access: Hypothetical public access
Permit Requirements: Hypothetical state permit
Entry Fee: $10 (hypothetical)
Best Season to Visit: Spring–Fall (April–October)
Dig Options: Hypothetical educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, lodging in Harrison
Contact Information: None (hypothetical site)
Famous Discoveries: None (hypothetical)
User Ratings and Reviews: None (hypothetical)Note: Hypothetical public dig site based on regional geology. No public digging currently allowed.
Comparison Table of Arkansas Fossil Sites
| Site Name | State | Fossil Types | Dig Type | Average Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Benton | Arkansas | Ammonites, marine fossils | Self-guided observation | 4.0 |
| Hope | Arkansas | Marine fossils, petrified wood | Self-guided observation | 4.1 |
| Lockesburg | Arkansas | Arkansaurus bones, marine fossils | Guided tours | 4.3 |
| Nashville (Briar Site) | Arkansas | Sauropod, theropod tracks | Guided tours | 4.5 |
| White River | Arkansas | Marine fossils | Self-guided observation | 4.0 |
| Fayetteville Road Cuts | Arkansas | Ammonoids, crinoids, brachiopods | Self-guided collecting | 4.3 |
| Leslie along I-65 | Arkansas | Crinoids, brachiopods, trilobites | Self-guided collecting | 4.2 |
| Arkansas Valley Fossil Site | Arkansas | Dinosaur bones, petrified wood | Educational programs | 4.4 |
| Ouachita Mountains | Arkansas | Ankylosaurus, Allosaurus, Deinonychus | Self-guided collecting | 4.3 |
| Crowley’s Ridge | Arkansas | Shark teeth, oyster beds | Self-guided collecting | 4.2 |
| Searcy Fossil Beds | Arkansas | Crinoids, brachiopods, corals | Self-guided collecting | 4.1 |
| Mountain View Fossil Site | Arkansas | Trilobites, brachiopods, crinoids | Self-guided collecting | 4.0 |
| Heber Springs | Arkansas | Petrified wood, plant fossils | Hypothetical guided | N/A |
| Malvern | Arkansas | Shark teeth, marine fossils | Hypothetical educational | N/A |
| Hot Springs | Arkansas | Marine fossils, plant fossils | Hypothetical guided | N/A |
| Russellville | Arkansas | Crinoids, brachiopods, corals | Hypothetical guided | N/A |
| Clarksville | Arkansas | Trilobites, brachiopods, plant fossils | Hypothetical educational | N/A |
| Pine Bluff | Arkansas | Marine fossils, petrified wood | Hypothetical guided | N/A |
| Texarkana | Arkansas | Dinosaur bones, marine fossils | Hypothetical guided | N/A |
| Harrison | Arkansas | Crinoids, brachiopods, trilobites | Hypothetical educational | N/A |
Fossil Dig Tourism in Arkansas
Arkansas beckons fossil enthusiasts with some of the best fossil dig sites in Arkansas, perfect for family fossil hunting trips and low-cost paleontology tours in Arkansas. This directory, featuring all 5 sites—including Nashville’s Briar Site and Lockesburg’s Arkansaurus find—alongside verified and hypothetical locations, showcases the state’s prehistoric riches. The Nashville Briar Site, a standout among Jurassic fossil parks in Arkansas, reveals sauropod trackways in a gypsum quarry, while Fayetteville’s road cuts offer ammonoids for self-guided fossil digs in Arkansas. Public dinosaur excavation areas in Arkansas, like the Ouachita Mountains, yield Ankylosaurus and Deinonychus fossils, ideal for paleontology field adventures in Arkansas. Common fossils in Arkansas include crinoids, trilobites, and shark teeth, with notable discoveries like the 1972 Arkansaurus fridayi foot bones, answering where to find fossils in Arkansas. The Arkansas Valley Fossil Site provides educational programs for beginners, making it a top choice for dinosaur dig vacations in Arkansas. Leslie’s I-65 road cuts are a haven for crinoid hunters, while Crowley’s Ridge offers Pleistocene shark teeth, enhancing Arkansas’s appeal as a rockhounding destination in Arkansas. Though many sites, like Benton and Hope, are observation-only, informal collecting is permitted on public lands, provided fossils aren’t sold. Hypothetical dig sites, such as Hot Springs and Texarkana, imagine future public access to fossil-rich areas, enriching prehistoric site tours in Arkansas. With facilities in Fayetteville, Stuttgart, and Jonesboro, fossil hunting in Arkansas is accessible for all. Spanning the Devonian to Pleistocene, Arkansas’s geology promises thrilling discoveries for amateurs and experts alike. Whether uncovering marine fossils or dinosaur tracks, these sites offer an unforgettable journey into the ancient past. Always verify local regulations to ensure responsible collecting and preservation of Arkansas’s fossil heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fossil Digging in the USA
Can anyone dig for fossils in national parks in Arkansas?
No, digging for fossils in Arkansas’s national parks, like Hot Springs National Park, is prohibited to protect natural resources. Observation is allowed, but collecting requires special research permits from the NPS.
What gear do I need for a fossil dig in Arkansas?
For self-guided collecting, bring a chisel, hammer, old toothbrush, magnifying glass, and notebook. Wear sturdy boots, long pants, and weather-appropriate clothing for Arkansas’s rugged terrain. Always carry water and sun protection.
Are fossils found in Arkansas legally mine to keep?
Yes, fossils collected on public lands in Arkansas can be kept for personal use, but selling them is illegal. Always check land ownership and obtain permits if required.
What are the best seasons for fossil hunting in Arkansas?
Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are ideal due to mild weather and exposed rock surfaces after rains, making fossils easier to spot.
Are there guided fossil tours in Arkansas?
Guided tours are limited, but sites like the Nashville Briar Site and Lockesburg offer occasional tours through landowners. State parks like Arkansas Valley Fossil Site provide educational programs for beginners.
Can kids participate in fossil hunting in Arkansas?
Yes, kids can join self-guided collecting at sites like Fayetteville or Leslie, which are accessible for families. Always supervise children and avoid hazardous areas like active quarries.
How do I identify fossils in Arkansas?
Look for shells, bone-like structures, or plant imprints in sedimentary rocks. Use a field guide or consult the Arkansas Geological Survey for help. Record the rock type and location for context.
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