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This Ohio Park Lets You Keep 375-Million-Year-Old Fossils – For Free!

If you’re into history, geology, or just love a good outdoor adventure, Fossil Park in Sylvania, Ohio, is a must-visit.

Known for its abundance of fossils from the Devonian period, this park offers a rare opportunity to dig up and keep 375-million-year-old treasures. Back then, Ohio was a very different place—completely submerged under a shallow, tropical sea.

This was the Devonian era, also known as the “Age of Fishes.”

fossil park ohio
Fossils collected at Fossil Park. Photo via Facebook

The warm waters were home to marine life like trilobites, coral reefs, and the first bony fish. What makes this time period so fascinating is the dramatic geological changes that occurred, shaping Ohio into the land we know today. Fossils from this time provide a glimpse into a thriving underwater ecosystem, full of creatures that eventually fossilized in the region’s limestone, dolomite, and shale deposits.

At the park, you can hunt for fossilized brachiopods, corals, and a variety of marine life that once thrived in what used to be a shallow sea. What’s really neat is that you don’t need fancy tools. The shale in the quarry is soft enough to break with your hands, making it perfect for families, school groups, and fossil enthusiasts of all ages. Just bring a brush and a container for your finds, and you’re ready to go!

Fossil Park is part of Outdoor Sylvania’s park system and spans five acres, with an ADA-accessible quarry.

fossil park ohio
Photo via Facebook

The fossils come from a nearby working quarry and are safe and easy to explore. The park is open from mid-April to October, and you can dig for fossils during specific hours that vary by season. It’s a great way to spend a day outside, and the best part? Admission, parking, and fossil hunting are all free!

Beyond fossil digging, the park offers year-round trails for biking, walking, or running, so even in the off-season, there’s plenty to enjoy. Plus, restroom facilities are available, and nearby Mayberry Square has some dining options if you need a snack after your big fossil hunt.

Fossil Park is also a popular spot for educational field trips, with programs that cater to schools, scouts, and other groups. So, whether you’re planning a family day out or organizing an educational outing, Fossil Park delivers an unforgettable hands-on experience.

If you’re looking for a fun and educational way to connect with prehistoric Ohio, Fossil Park is the place to dig in!

fossil park ohio
Fossils collected at Fossil Park. Photo via Facebook

Fossil Park is located at 5705 Centennial Rd, Sylvania, OH 43560. For more info, or to plan your visit, head over to outdoorsylvania.com/fossil-park.