OREGON PALEO LANDS INSTITUTE

www.opli.org

Based in Fossil; see website for field classes and area edu-tourism activities in paleontology, geology and more.

Related Links

 

STATE FOSSSIL

 

The metasequoia was designated in 2005 as Oregon’s official state fossil, thanks to the Oregon Legislature and in large part to the efforts of Guy DiTorrice, Oregon’s “fossil guy” who led the charge. Lyn at Bridge Creek Flora Inn wrote the resolution adopted by the Legislature for designation of the state fossil. For more information about Oregon fossils in general, see www.oregonfossilguy.com.

DIGGING FOSSILS AT FOSSIL

Public fossil digging beds are located behind the high school, where fossils are literally strewn across a hillside. There is a $3 charge for fossil digging and you are allowed to keep three fossils. No digging tools required and almost every rock you pick up holds a plant fossil. Hours are somewhat limited although not enforced. Contact the fossil site interpreter at kmass39@yahoo.com or 541-763-4146 for more information.

JOURNEY THROUGH TIME

TOUR ROUTE

  Oregon’s only cultural and heritage tour route, the Journey Through Time extends 217 miles from the Columbia River at Biggs (exit 104) across north central and eastern Oregon to end (or start) at the Oregon Trail at Baker City.  Follow the route of stagecoaches and the gold fields of Eastern Oregon and experience the days of early settlers, high mountain former railways, the boom and bust of several small towns, and 50 million years of fossilized history.  For a free brochure listing features along the way, contact us and we’ll be happy to mail one to you.

NEARBY CAMPING

 

Wheeler Co. Fairgrounds in Fossil

Full hook-ups

541-763-4560 or 763-2400

 

Bear Hollow Campground Park

(5 miles south of Fossil on Hwy 19)

Shelton Park

(7 miles south of Fossil on Hwy 19)

Both have potable water & restrooms

County office 541-763-2400

 

John Day River valley at Twickenham