Fossil Beach

Hours: Fossil Beach is located within Westmoreland State Park in Virginia. It is accessed via the Big Meadow Trail, a shaded, forested path roughly six-tenths of a mile from the Visitor Center and parking lot. The trail is well-maintained but involves a descent with roots and elevation change, requiring comfortable walking shoes. The quiet, sandy beach at the end is fairly big, strewn with driftwood, shells, and small rock pieces, and is bounded by private property at both ends. The beach is a known destination for finding fossilized shark teeth, whale bones, and fossilized shells, though finds can require dedicated searching and items are becoming more rare. Some visitors find several shark teeth in an afternoon, while others note the area can appear cleaned over. Successful hunting often involves preparation, with recommendations for water shoes, shovels, sifters, colanders for sifting in the waves, and old nametags to hold treasures. The beach offers no shade, so sunscreen is advised, and visitors should pack all desired supplies like umbrellas or picnics. The park’s impressive Visitor Center provides clean restrooms, a gift shop selling snacks, ice cream, T-shirts, books, and even fossil shark teeth. The staff are extremely friendly and helpful, offering a good history lesson and knowledge of local wildlife. The overall atmosphere is pleasant, with a nice community feel evidenced by activities like painted rock hunts. The beach and trail are enjoyed for a fun-filled, fantastic visit combining a nice hike with the potential for fossil hunting, crabbing, and finding natural resources like clay.

1. Montross, Virginia