Dig for Dinosaurs Right Here in Utah

What kid hasn’t dreamed of discovering dinosaur bones in their backyard? Well, now is the time to come be a part of history and experience the excitement of paleontology first-hand without leaving Utah.

Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum

Come visit the Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum and search for dinosaurs, mammals, plants, insects, and other fossils. The Fossil Field program begins on June 20 and runs for five days until June 24.

Participants will work along aside experts in the field of paleontology to collect specimens for the museum.These five days will be packed full of fun, educational and engaging activities that give participants a new appreciation for the past.

Paleontology program will include, but not limited to, exploring for and collecting fossils for the museum, under adverse field conditions. Hiking in mountainous or badland terrain, where steep and rocky slopes exist will also be part of the program.

Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum Field School

Bugs, hot temperatures, dusty environments, unpredictable weather and other natural elements are possible, and heavy lifting, use of chisels and hammers, and operation of power tools is part of the excavation process. Participants will leave from and return to the museum each day.

The lab portion of the program – if held – may involve small power tools and application of adhesives. Dust and rock debris may occur due to preparation work. Participant may lift heavy objects over 20 lbs using equipment or by hand. Intermittent periods of sitting, bending, or standing may be possible.

Anyone ages 16 and over are welcome to participate, and individuals ages 16-18 needs to be accompanied by a paying adult legal guardian. Equipment used in collecting/preparation will be provided and registration is limited to 15 participants/week.

Utah Field House of Natural History State Park Museum Field School

The cost for the five-day event is $400 per-person and includes expert leadership, surveying for new fossil sites and practical experience in collecting fossils, and possibly preparation of fossils. We accept cash, checks, or credit cards, and payment must be received by one month prior to start date.

What Participants must provide: Lodging, meals, transportation (high clearance vehicles recommended) to sites, gas for vehicle, personal items such as work gloves, hiking boots, sunscreen, bug repellent, water containers, sunglasses, hats, coolers, etc.

To register, or if you have further questions, contact the museum at stevesroka@utah.gov or call 435-789-3799. The museum is located at 496 E. Main, Vernal Utah 84078.
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