Wheeler High School Fossil Beds — Attraction in Fossil

This is a great place to find fossils. The parking area is clearly labeled with signs at the front of the school directing you where to go. There are also signs that direct you to the path as they don't want people walking across the sports field. They have some tools under a small shaded area. The hillside is in the direct sun so large brimmed hats and sunscreen are both good to utilize. They have a suggested donation of about $5/person and request that each person only take two handfuls of fossils each. The path to the hillside is pretty uneven but short. We found a couple of handfuls of fossils in about 30 minutes. Don't forget to stop by the museum and school information center just...

I was a bit disappointed by my visit here. There is very little information about how to plan a successful visit. Here's some information so hopefully you'll be better prepared!

the website that is linked says they are closed for spring, but I went on March 25, 2025 and they were open. There is no one working at the site (the hillside behind the football field), but there are signs that point you to the path to the hillside. bring your own tools. There is a tool shed, but it was empty when I went. I recommend a small shovel, hand pick,...

Extremely easy to locate fossil plants. Most fossils are fragmentary as the stone is fairly fragile. There are some tools on site but it's best to bring a small trowel and chisel to split items. There was a crowbar on site that I found helpful to split layers in the hillside. Check out the local...