Hunting For History: Maryland Group Leads Fossil Fun For Beginners

Fossil Hunting in Southern Maryland — Photo Credit: Maryland Fossil Finders Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/mdfossilfinders

NANJEMOY, Md. — Whether you’re a curious kid or an outdoor enthusiast, Maryland Fossil Finders invites you to dig into Maryland’s prehistoric past with no experience required.

Maryland Fossil Finders was founded with a clear mission: to make fossil hunting accessible, educational and safe for all. The volunteer-led group, founded by fossil enthusiast and accessibility advocate Felicia Ludwig, prioritizes conservation and responsible fossil collecting, ensuring that fossil sites are protected and respected for future generations.

Whether you’re a curious beginner or someone who has never held a fossil before, this group is opening the door to hands-on discovery, education and outdoor fun.

What to Expect

The hunts are family-friendly and open to all experience levels. Attendees should dress in weather-appropriate clothing and bring any gear they may need for water and sand. A blog post on the Maryland Fossil Finders website offers tips on recommended gear.

Events are held rain or shine but may be canceled in the case of extreme weather. The cost is a suggested donation of $3 per participant age 13 and older.

Upcoming Fossil Walks at Purse State Park

Maryland Fossil Finders is hosting a series of beginner-friendly fossil hunts at Purse State Park in Nanjemoy. These guided walks are designed for first-time fossil hunters and are open to the public on a “pay what you can” basis. Space is limited, so early RSVPs are recommended.

Scheduled events include:

April 12 from noon to 3 p.m.
May 18 from noon to 3 p.m.
June 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Participants will learn how to search for fossils, identify their finds and understand the significance of Maryland’s ancient coastal environment. The events are family-friendly and suitable for all skill levels, with guides on hand to assist and answer questions.

Inclusive and Accessible for All

Maryland Fossil Finders is deeply committed to accessibility and inclusion. A detailed guide to accommodations is available at marylandfossilfinders.com/archives/944, and support may include:

Transportation assistance when possible
Mobility support for those needing help navigating uneven ground
Tactile fossil-hunting guidance for blind and low-vision participants
ASL interpretation for Deaf and hard-of-hearing guests
Privacy tents for restroom needs and sensory breaks
Spanish-language support with translators available upon request
Service animals welcome with advance notice
Pre-event consultations for personalized accommodations

Everyone is encouraged to reach out ahead of time to discuss individual needs and ensure a comfortable, welcoming experience.

Connect and Learn More

In addition to their in-person events, Maryland Fossil Finders offers a variety of educational resources through their website, including a fossil-hunting guide, blog posts, and a newsletter signup. Donations help support their mission and keep events accessible to the public.

For more information, to donate or to RSVP for an event, visit www.marylandfossilfinders.com. You can also follow them on Facebook at facebook.com/mdfossilfinders.