Join our professional preparators to reveal a piece of the deep past. The Wyoming Dinosaur Center actively works 6 to 8 dig sites each summer and the fossils that are excavated from those sites need to be prepared for scientific research so we can learn about the animals we’ve discovered.  Many of the bones we discover are put on display for visitors to see firsthand the incredible work we do. Participants in our Fossils working on Fossils program will:

 Experience a personal guided tour of our world-class museum.
 Work in the Prep lab on real dinosaur bones from Wyoming and Montana.
 Gain hands-on knowledge of fossilization, osteology, prep methods.
 Practice different methods of cleaning, repairing, and displaying fossils.
 Observe molding and casting practices along with 3D modeling and printing used to replicate and create fossil casts.
 Delve into Wyoming’s compelling geologic history by exploring the Wind River Canyon and the southern Bighorn Basin (weather permitting).
 Learn the basics of excavation, prospecting, and mapping dig sites (May and September programs only).

Taking place over four and a half days, you will work alongside trained professionals learning and then perfecting techniques that have been used to prepare dinosaur bones for nearly 100 years as well as a few new techniques that are only now becoming widespread. The program will run from 9:00am to 4:00pm Monday through Thursday and from 9:00am until 12:00pm on Friday.

The museum will provide lunch Monday through Thursday and Dinner on Wednesday evening during an hour-long presentation given by one of our Paleontologists. The week will end with a group exam for our Basic Lab Certification or Basic Field Certification.  Please note, participants will be responsible for their own lodging accommodations.

Programs held in February, March, April will be paleo prep only and programs held in May, and September will be fossil digging only.

Everyone is required to provide their own refillable water bottles and closed-toe shoes (tennis shoes or hiking boots) are mandatory. You will not be allowed to participate without the appropriate footwear. Participants are encouraged to bring their own backpacks, sunscreen, hats, etc.  When working outdoors layered clothing is recommended as weather can change quickly.

Our climate averages about 321 clear days a year. But if the program is canceled for whatever reason, your registration fees will be refunded in full, or we will work with you to reschedule if possible.

Wyoming Dinosaur Center Cancellation Policy

If your plans change and you cannot participate, we will refund your registration fees less a $25 cancellation fee provided you cancel 30 days or more prior to your reserved date. No refund will be given for cancellations less than 30 days prior to your reserved date. If you simply need to change the date of your reservation, we will be happy to reschedule you with no penalty, dependent upon availability.