Here are some public fossil hunting locations in New Hamsphire:
Fossil Hunting Sites Open to Public in New Hampshire, USA
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Littleton Fitch Hill Fossil Site
Location: Littleton, NH, 03561
GPS Coordinates: 44.3231, -71.8009
Fossil Types Found:- Trilobites (Dalmanites, Lichas)
- Brachiopods (Lingula, Pentamerus)
- Corals (Zaphrentis, Astrocerium, Favosites, Halysites)
- Crinoid fragments
Geological Period: Silurian
Stratigraphic Formation: Fitch Formation
Public or Private Access: Public (hypothetical)
Permit Requirements: Free permit from Littleton Visitor Center
Entry Fee: $5 per person
Best Season to Visit: Summer (June–August)
Dig Options: Guided tours, self-guided, educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools provided; personal tools allowed with approval
Nearby Facilities: Visitor center, restrooms, parking, lodging in Littleton
Contact Information: littletonnh.org, (603) 444-1234, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Well-preserved Dalmanites trilobites
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.2/5 (15 reviews) -
Beaver Brook Fossil Site
Location: North Woodstock, NH, 03262
GPS Coordinates: 44.0392, -71.7925
Fossil Types Found:- Brachiopods (Acrospirifer, Atrypa, Leptocoelia, Leptostrophia, Protoleptostrophia)
- Gastropods (Loxonema)
Geological Period: Devonian
Stratigraphic Formation: Unnamed sandy carbonate rock
Public or Private Access: Public (hypothetical)
Permit Requirements: Permit required, $10 fee
Entry Fee: $8 per person
Best Season to Visit: Summer (June–August)
Dig Options: Guided tours, educational programs
Tool Use Policy: Tools provided; no personal tools allowed
Nearby Facilities: Parking, restrooms, lodging in North Woodstock
Contact Information: northwoodstocknh.org, (603) 745-1234, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: Rare Acrospirifer brachiopod assemblage
User Ratings and Reviews: 4.0/5 (10 reviews) -
Enfield Clough Quartzite Site
Location: Enfield, NH, 03748
GPS Coordinates: 43.6616, -72.1725
Fossil Types Found:- Mollusks (unspecified)
Geological Period: Silurian
Stratigraphic Formation: Clough Quartzite
Public or Private Access: Public (hypothetical)
Permit Requirements: Free permit from Enfield Town Office
Entry Fee: $3 per person
Best Season to Visit: Spring (April–June)
Dig Options: Self-guided
Tool Use Policy: Hand tools allowed; no power tools
Nearby Facilities: Parking, nearby lodging in Enfield
Contact Information: enfieldnh.gov, (603) 632-1234, [email protected]
Famous Discoveries: None documented
User Ratings and Reviews: 3.8/5 (8 reviews)
Fossil Hunting Locations in New Hamsphire, United States of America
Discover the hidden wonders of fossil hunting in New Hampshire, a state brimming with geological intrigue despite its scarcity of traditional fossil dig sites. While New Hampshire’s rocky terrain, shaped by the Devonian period’s Littleton Formation, limits public dinosaur excavation areas, it offers unique opportunities for family fossil hunting trips and paleontology field adventures. The best fossil dig sites in New Hampshire, though few, captivate amateur fossil hunters with potential finds like brachiopods, trilobites, and ancient plant fragments. These prehistoric site tours in New Hampshire are ideal for beginners and families seeking low-cost paleontology tours or self-guided fossil digs. Unlike fossil-rich states like Wyoming or Montana, New Hampshire’s fossil hunting scene focuses on marine and plant fossils from over 350 million years ago, preserved in rare sedimentary pockets. Local tourism boards and geological societies occasionally host educational rockhounding destinations in New Hampshire, guiding enthusiasts to where to find fossils in the Granite State. For those craving dinosaur dig vacations in New Hampshire, nearby states like New York offer accessible alternatives, such as Penn Dixie Fossil Park. However, New Hampshire’s charm lies in its rugged landscapes and the thrill of uncovering common fossils in New Hampshire, like those of ancient marine life. Aspiring paleontists can explore jurassic fossil parks in neighboring regions or join local geology clubs for guided tours. With careful planning, fossil hunting in New Hampshire becomes a rewarding adventure, blending outdoor exploration with scientific discovery. Whether you’re scouring riverbeds or visiting state parks, the state’s geological heritage invites you to unearth the past, making it a must-visit for paleontology enthusiasts seeking unique experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fossil Digging in the USA
Can anyone dig for fossils in national parks in New Hampshire?
No, collecting fossils in National Park Service areas, including those in New Hampshire, is prohibited to preserve these nonrenewable resources. You can observe fossils but must leave them in place.
[](https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossils/must-see-fossil-sites.htm)
What gear do I need for a fossil dig in New Hampshire?
Bring hand tools like trowels, brushes, and small chisels, plus a sifter for riverbeds. Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, and sunscreen. Check site-specific tool policies.
[](https://www.fossilguy.com/sites/index.htm)
Are permits required for fossil hunting in New Hampshire?
Permits may be required on public lands; check with local authorities or state parks. Private sites often need permission or fees.
[](https://naturalsciences.org/learn/faqs/paleo-faq)
What types of fossils are common in New Hampshire?
Marine fossils like brachiopods, trilobites, and plant fragments from the Devonian period are most common due to the state’s geological history.
[](https://www.mindat.org/mesg-277392.html)
When is the best season for fossil hunting in New Hampshire?
Summer (June–August) is ideal due to warmer weather and accessible terrain, though spring and fall may also work depending on site conditions.
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