Where collection is allowed
The private quarry expressly permits paid visitors to keep finds. Collecting is prohibited in neighboring Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument, which is a separate protected federal area.
The high-elevation quarry is weather-dependent. The operator publishes seasonal hours and recommends confirming conditions when rain is forecast.
Tools, limits, and timing
Tools and methods
Tools and instruction are provided for the timed session. Use only the supplied method and avoid crushing thin shale.
Amount and use
Keep privileges apply only to the private quarry session. No collecting of any natural object is allowed inside the national monument.
Season and current status
Seasonal with weather-dependent hours. Check the operator’s current schedule, arrival cutoff, closures, and payment requirements.
Rules to confirm at the site
- Verify that you are at the private quarry—not the national monument.
- Pay before collecting.
- Use the supplied tools and instruction.
- Show a rare or scientifically important specimen to staff.
An old webpage, saved map, app layer, social post, or prior visit cannot override a current closure, posted boundary, permit condition, mining claim, staff instruction, or landowner decision.
What makes the site geologically useful
Fine lake sediment and volcanic ash preserved delicate late Eocene leaves, insects, and other organisms roughly 34 million years ago.
A faint stain or fracture is not necessarily a fossil; matching part and counterpart can strengthen an interpretation.
A low-impact trip plan
- 1
Confirm the quarry is open.
- 2
Bring protective clothing and flat packing material.
- 3
Receive splitting instruction.
- 4
Inspect both halves in indirect light.
- 5
Wrap fragile pieces without applying field coatings.
Site-specific preparation
- The quarry is about 8,500 feet above sea level.
- Weather can change quickly and shale edges are sharp.
- Do not cross into protected monument land to collect.
Official sources
Open every relevant source shortly before departure. Fees, booking windows, fire rules, seasons, roads, and collection conditions can change without notice.
- Private quarry schedule and collection policy Florissant Fossil Quarry
- No collecting inside the national monument National Park Service
Access and rule review: September 18, 2026. This guide is educational planning information, not a permit, reservation, boundary survey, or legal opinion.