The geology and fossil record of Orange County is nothing short of fascinating.  From sand to solid granite, from seashells to whale bones, the county's trove of rocks and ancient sea creatures is worth exploration. 

 

Of course, there are some laws that prevent the casual rock and fossil hound from removing anything from county, state and federal lands,but the activities listed below will give you a great respect for the earth's "crusty" side and guide you to places worth exploring.

 

 

 

Fossil Reef Park - Laguna Hills.  The Laguna Hills area sits atop 17 million years of fossils, from marine life through land dwellers.  The city's community center presents an interactive display.  

See photos.

 

Irvine Ranch Fossil Safari Program - In partnership with the Discovery Science Center, this program uses student field trips to the Irvine Ranch lands for a simulated fossil dig.

 

TCA Fossil Program - When the toll roads were being built, a great number of fossils were unearthed, from snails to whales, including some fossils believed to date back to the dinosaur days.  Since then, the Transportation Corridor Agency (TCA) has made many of these specimens available for viewing and as a free educational program for elementary students.  Click here for a Flyer.

 

Orange County Dinosaur - The Web site of F. Joseph Bell, Orange County Dinosaur Hunter.

 

 

Clubs

Reference

 

Publications