Best Places In Montana To Dig For Fossils

Montana is called the Treasure State for good reason—and not just because of the jaw-dropping views that stretch for miles in every direction. Sure, the nickname stems from the state's rich deposits of gold, silver, copper, and other valuable minerals, making it a hotspot during the western prospecting boom. But Montana's treasures don't stop there.

Beneath the surface lies a prehistoric jackpot—fossils. From dinosaur bones to ancient sea creatures, Montana's ground holds secrets that are millions of years old.

Here are some of the best places to look for fossils in Montana...

Makoshika State Park
Welcome to Montana's largest state park and badlands territory, where ancient fossils are scattered across a dramatic, eroded landscape. Want to actually dig? Book a hands-on fossil adventure on private land like this one HERE.

Burpee Museum of Natural History
Every year, the Burpee Museum offers a unique chance for wanna-be paleontologists to join real research digs. Their Dinosaur Expedition in August, based near Ekalaka, lets you search for dino bones in one of Montana's richest fossil zones.

Hell Creek Formation
Near Jordan, Montana, this legendary formation dates back roughly 65.5 million years. Formed by receding Cretaceous seas, it's loaded with fossilized dinosaur remains. To dig into the past yourself, check out a tour opportunity HERE.

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Basically, our state is a playground for paleontologists or treasure seekers, allowing them to learn and make new discoveries. Have you ever found a fossil in Montana? Let us know HERE.