Fossils define Kemmerer, but the town’s history and the Hams Fork River also give a stay here its own character. Options range from museums and fossil hunting to seasonal demonstrations, fishing, golf, and programs at the Recreation Center. To plan your visit, start by choosing your focus: Would you like to see fossils, search for them yourself, or focus mainly on history and outdoor activities?

Fossils and Local History

The Hamsfork Museum displays fossils, mining artifacts, and a moonshine still. It also explores the local history of Kemmerer and Diamondville, including ranching, early businesses, fossils, energy industries, and railroads. Admission is free. Exhibits may change, so check current information if you’re coming to see a particular item.

Another tangible link to the past is the first J.C. Penney store, which opened in Kemmerer, Wyoming, in 1902. FossilFest is also part of the town’s cultural calendar: the event takes place in Kemmerer every year. Alongside the long history of fossils and the museum, it offers a recurring reason to visit.

See Fossils or Search for Them Yourself

Fossil Lake Safari offers fossil hunting and the chance to excavate your own fossil fish in a private quarry. If you plan to take part, check availability in advance. This differs from a museum visit, where the focus is on finds that have already been unearthed and displayed.

Fossil Butte National Monument is located farther west of Kemmerer, in the surrounding region. Its visitor center displays more than 2,000 fossils from the Green River Formation. There are also fossil preparation demonstrations between Memorial Day and Labor Day; dates and schedules may vary. Check the current schedule if you want to experience this particular seasonal offering.

The exhibits at the Hamsfork Museum and visitor center offer a look at fossils, while fossil hunting at Fossil Lake Safari focuses on digging them up yourself. These different ways to experience fossils can help you choose a focus for your visit.

River, Fishing, and Activities

The Hams Fork River flows through Kemmerer and is known for trout fishing. The community-use Kid’s Fishing Pond is a fishing spot in Kemmerer near the Hamsfork River. For another activity, Fossil Island Golf Club offers a nine-hole course on the Hams Fork River. Its island green, with two par-5 holes, was built in 1920. Golf course operating details may change.

The Recreation Center in Kemmerer offers year-round programs, activities, and opportunities to exercise. Schedules and offerings may change; check current program information if you have a specific date in mind.

Discover more destinations: Thayne, Afton.

Go to the overview of the wider area: Lincoln.