There are plenty of places throughout the Sunshine State that holds historical importance. As one of the earliest settled states in the country, Florida has a lot of surprises under its belt. For instance, Peace River is a beautiful natural gem that is worth visiting. Not only can you enjoy outdoor activities here, like floating, kayaking, and camping, but there is another reason to visit altogether. Get ready to start hunting for fossils at Peace River in Florida.
Did you know you could hunt for fossils in Florida? For anyone unfamiliar with Peace River in Florida, this once-integral transportation hub is now the go-to spot for Florida fossil hunting.
Wikipedia PD-USGov-Interior-FWS
Thanks to companies like Paleo Discoveries, hunting for fossils in Peace River has never been easier.
Flickr Kevin Mims
The gently-flowing river offers a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the shoreline by foot or the river by boat or water vessel.
Wikipedia Ebyabe
Located at the southwestern portion of the Florida peninsula, this river clocks in at 106 miles in length and is said to date historically back in terms of settlement in the 16th century.
Wikipedia Lari Knochenmus
The river was called Rio de la Paz (River of Peace) on Spanish charts and Peas Creek or Pease Creek. However, Seminole Indians called the river Talakchopcohatchee, the River of Long Peas.
Wikipedia US Geological Survey
But today, the river is known as a top-rated destination for fossil hunters! Visitors who dig through the river gravel have a chance to find some of the biggest fossilized shark teeth, and prehistoric mammal bones, too.
Flickr Kevin Mims
Remember, if you’re out hunting fossils without a tour guide or company, you likely need to order a Florida Fossil Permit.
Flickr Southwest Florida Fossil Club
The bulk of the fossils you’ll find in the river is from marine animals. However, every so often you’ll come across a giant fossilized shark tooth, sometimes ginormous in size.
TripAdvisor Management
No matter how you choose to explore Peace River, you’ll be in for a treat with the chance to score some historical river fossils.
Flickr Kevin Mims
Are you ready to hunt for fossils at Peace River in Florida? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you’ve already been to Peace River for fossil hunting, then let us know what finds you’ve come across!
Wikipedia PD-USGov-Interior-FWS
Flickr Kevin Mims
Wikipedia Ebyabe
Wikipedia Lari Knochenmus
Wikipedia US Geological Survey
Flickr Southwest Florida Fossil Club
TripAdvisor Management
After you’re done hunting for fossils, we have the perfect place to satisfy your appetite. Head on over to Peace River Seafood for the best locally-caught fish!
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Address: Peace River, Florida, USA
