Where collection is allowed
Montour Preserve states that the fossil pit is open dawn to dark, admission is free, and visitors may keep fossils they find under the posted site rules.
Use the preserve’s fossil-pit address and current notices. Pets are not allowed at the preserve.
Tools, limits, and timing
Tools and methods
A small geologist’s hammer, brush, goggles, wrapping material, and container are suggested. Work loose shale without undercutting the face.
Amount and use
Keep ordinary fossils from the designated pit only. Show unusual or scientifically important material to preserve staff.
Season and current status
Open year-round dawn to dark, subject to weather, maintenance, and current notices.
Rules to confirm at the site
- Remain inside the designated pit.
- Wear eye protection.
- Bring no pets.
- Leave the face stable and clean.
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
The pit exposes roughly 390-million-year-old Mahantango Formation shale deposited in a Devonian sea.
Common fossils include brachiopods, mollusks, bryozoans, crinoids, corals, and occasional trilobites.
A low-impact trip plan
- 1
Open the current official source and check alerts before leaving home.
- 2
Confirm the property boundary, parking location, and activity rules on arrival.
- 3
Begin with observation or surface searching and make the smallest possible disturbance.
- 4
Photograph context before handling any material that the current rules allow you to keep.
- 5
Pack out every item you brought and leave protected or uncertain material in place.
Site-specific preparation
- Broken shale is sharp and becomes hot in direct sun.
- Supervise children closely around tools and the face.
- Wear long pants, sturdy shoes, and eye protection.
Official sources
Open every relevant source shortly before departure. Fees, booking windows, fire rules, seasons, roads, and collection conditions can change without notice.
- Fossil pit geology, hours, rules, and keep policy Montour Preserve
Access and rule review: September 18, 2026. This guide is educational planning information, not a permit, reservation, boundary survey, or legal opinion.