Kids Can Dig for Fossils at Illinois Nature Event June 13

Kids fascinated by dinosaurs and ancient creatures now have a chance to become real fossil hunters for a day.

The Champaign County Forest Preserve District is hosting "Fun with Fossils" on June 13 from 1 to 2 p.m. at Middle Fork River Forest Preserve's Interpretive Center. The free program gives families an exciting way to explore Illinois' ancient past while enjoying the outdoors together.

Participants will learn about fossils commonly discovered throughout Illinois, uncovering the rich prehistoric history hidden beneath their feet. The program also showcases a special local treasure: a 400-year-old bison skull found right in the preserve back in 2018.

But the real excitement comes from the mock fossil dig. Children get to experience what paleontologists do, carefully uncovering ancient specimens from the earth. Best of all, young archaeologists can take their fossil discoveries home as keepsakes from their prehistoric adventure.

The Ripple Effect

Programs like this plant seeds of scientific curiosity that can grow into lifelong passions. When children touch something millions of years old, history transforms from abstract textbook pages into tangible reality. These hands-on experiences often spark interests in geology, biology, and environmental science that shape future careers and conservation efforts.

The preserve's commitment to free educational programming also ensures that every family can access quality outdoor learning, regardless of economic circumstances. By removing financial barriers, the district creates equal opportunities for all children to explore nature and discover their interests.

Space is limited, and advance registration closes on June 6. Parents need to register each child who plans to attend through the Champaign County Forest Preserve District website.

This simple afternoon program might just inspire the next generation of scientists who will help us understand Earth's past and protect its future.