BUFFALO PRIVATE FIELD GUIDE
Young Rockhounds at Penn Dixie: A Two‑Hour Junior Geologist Expedition into 380‑Million‑Year‑Old Seas
A private, two‑hour, small‑group field geology tour for ages 5–12 that lets families collect 380‑million‑year‑old fossils across a 54‑acre Buffalo park.
Young Rockhounds at Penn Dixie: A Two‑Hour Junior Geologist Expedition into 380‑Million‑Year‑Old Seas.
Modeled by the Hamburg Natural History Society, the Junior Geologist Expedition is a private, two‑hour field‑geology experience built for young explorers. Guided by an experienced staff member through a 54‑acre park, small groups (2–10 people) search Penn Dixie’s beds for 380‑million‑year‑old fossils, learn basic paleontological techniques and take home the specimens they uncover.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
380‑Million‑Year‑Old Finds
Participants explore exposed fossil beds where Paleozoic marine life is preserved; the expedition focuses on hands‑on discovery of authentic 380‑million‑year‑old specimens under the guidance of knowledgeable staff.
Field Geology for Kids
The tour is delivered in the style of field geology, teaching young rockhounds basic collecting techniques and observational skills during a professionally guided, two‑hour session.
Tools, Patches and Specimens
Each expedition includes use of fossil‑collecting tools, an iron‑on patch for every participant, and the right to keep the fossils and geological specimens collected during the tour.
What the day feels like
What the expedition feels like
The Junior Geologist Expedition unfolds like a focused field lab: a brief orientation by your guide, a two‑hour walk across park outcrops teaching basic geologic observation, and guided, hands‑on collecting with provided trowels, buckets and cloth bags — all in a private, small‑group setting tailored to ages 5–12.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who gets the most from this outing — and who might pick something else.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The expedition includes use of fossil collecting tools (trowel, bucket, small cloth collecting bag), one iron‑on patch per participant, and all fossils and specimens collected during the tour are yours to keep.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
What ages is the Junior Geologist Expedition intended for?
Junior Geologist Expeditions are recommended for explorers ages 5 through 12; groups must include at least one child participant.
How long is the expedition?
Each expedition is a private, two‑hour professionally guided tour.
How many people can join a private Junior Geologist Expedition?
Each tour can accommodate 2–10 participants, with a maximum of 10 people per tour.
Are collecting tools provided?
Yes — the operator provides trowels, buckets and small cloth collecting bags for use during the tour.
Can we keep the fossils we find?
Yes — all of the fossils and geological specimens you collect during the tour are yours to keep.
Is an adult required to attend?
One adult is required to remain with the child(ren) throughout the duration of the tour; the operator requires at least one adult for every four children.
Are there discounts for members?
Members receive a 10% discount; contact the office prior to booking to receive your discount code.
Can we continue collecting after the guided tour?
After your tour you may remain on site to continue collecting on days that the park is open to the public.