Remember that vertebrate fossils are illegal to collect from public lands. Your best bet is to get the Rockhounding Montana book (most recent edition I think is 2018 or19), and a good map. I like the Benchmark maps, which were recommended to me by someone at a Montana BLM office as what they use. Off the top of my head there’s not much around…[Read more]

Thanks! Is that the book by Montana Hodges? We have the most recent edition and have been working our plans off that. I am glad to hear from someone who is familiar with it. Thanks for the tip on BLM — We will contact them.

Would you recommend somewhere other than Bozeman for a base? We are flying into Bozeman but have not yet finalized…[Read more]

Yes, that’s the book. It’s not led me astray yet and I’ve visited most of the sites that don’t require a serious rig. I camp when I’m out so that really colors what I can suggest. It also depends on what you are looking for and who you are with.
The Crystal Lake (site 74 in the book) fossils are easy to find and can be nice, the camping is…[Read more]

Thank you so much Corrine!!!! I really appreciate you taking the time to give me so much information. No matter how much one reads, there is no substitute for the experience of someone who has been there. Thanks again!!!

You are welcome. I’m happy to share if you have more questions. Send me a message as I’m not getting notifications on this thread. I plan to be out in the wilderness soon but will respond if I can. Montana is a great place to explore and I hope you have a great time!