School Field Trips & Private Group Visits
Hands-on fossil discovery experiences for schools, homeschool groups, camps, scouts, and other organized groups at the Okihi Fossil Field Station.
Available Tuesday through Thursday by reservation. Closed Mondays.
Okihi Fossil Field Station — Group Experiences
Step into the role of a scientist at the Okihi Fossil Field Station, where groups explore the remains of an ancient ocean that once covered this region. Each visit is led by trained staff and designed to be hands-on, engaging, and age-appropriate, introducing participants to the fundamentals of paleontology, deep time, and fossil discovery.
Guests will move through a structured process of washing, screening, and identifying fossil material, gaining a deeper understanding of how fossils are found and what they reveal about California’s past. This is not a passive activity—it’s an immersive outdoor learning experience set within Okihi’s riverfront landscape.
Programs are typically designed to last approximately two hours but can be adjusted to fit your group’s schedule and needs.
Who We Serve
We welcome a wide range of organized groups, including:
School groups (elementary through college)
Homeschool programs and co-ops
Youth organizations and scout groups
Summer camps
Special needs groups
Private educational groups and community organizations
What’s Included
Each group experience includes:
A trained staff educator to guide your group throughout the visit
A structured fossil discovery process (washing, screening, and sorting
Hands-on assistance with fossil identification
All necessary tools and materials provided on-site
A safety orientation prior to beginning
The ability to keep the fossils you discover
Program Length & Format
Most group visits are designed to last about two hours, though timing can be adjusted depending on group size, age level, and scheduling needs. Our goal is to provide a well-paced experience that feels educational, engaging, and manageable for both students and organizers.
A typical visit may include:
welcome and orientation
short educational introduction
guided fossil discovery experience
fossil identification and wrap-up
Important
This is an outdoor experience—please dress appropriately for the weather
Closed-toe shoes are required
All tools and materials are provided; outside tools are not needed
Participants are expected to follow staff guidance to ensure a safe and positive experience for all
Booking & Scheduling
Group experiences are available:
Tuesday through Thursday (school and private group bookings)
Advance reservations are required
Note: We recommend booking at least two weeks in advance to secure your preferred date.
A Note About Your Visit
Your group’s participation supports Okihi’s broader mission of river restoration, outdoor education, and community access to nature. Every visit contributes to the continued development of this unique riverside space.
Payment Information
Group bookings are processed as a single reservation
Final participant counts should be confirmed prior to your visit
Additional booking and payment details will be provided during the reservation process
What Your Group Will Experience
Each visit is designed to be active, hands-on, and age-appropriate. Depending on the age and goals of your group, participants may:
learn how fossils form and why they matter
explore the story of California’s ancient ocean
wash and screen fossil-bearing material
sort discoveries from non-fossil material
identify common fossil types such as shark teeth, ray material, fish remains, and shell fragments
practice careful observation and scientific thinking in an outdoor setting
Why Teachers and Organizations Choose OFFS
A Real Sense of Place
The experience is rooted in the story of this land, this river corridor, and California’s ancient ocean.
Hands-On Learning
The Students do more than listen—they actively participate in the discovery process.
Small, Guided Format
Our intentional group structure creates a more personal, focused experience than a crowded field trip.
Planning Your Visit
Group visits take place outdoors, so participants should come dressed for the weather and ready for a hands-on experience. Closed-toe shoes are required. All fossil discovery tools and materials are provided on-site.
Tuesday through Thursday availability
Advance reservation required
Closed-toe shoes required
Outdoor program; weather-appropriate clothing recommended
Group size and scheduling details confirmed during booking
Restroom and arrival details will be shared after booking
Group Pricing
Group pricing varies based on size, age group, and program format. Most school and youth group visits range from approximately $15–$25 per student.
We work with each group to create a visit that fits their needs, and final pricing is confirmed during the booking process.
All programs include guided instruction, fossil discovery materials, and hands-on identification support.
Booking Information
Group visits are scheduled by reservation and arranged directly with Okihi. We recommend reaching out as early as possible to secure your preferred date, especially during busy seasons. Final pricing, participant counts, and visit details will be confirmed during the reservation process.
Tuesday through Thursday availability
Advance reservation required
Closed-toe shoes required
Outdoor program; weather-appropriate clothing recommended
Group size and scheduling details confirmed during booking
Restroom and arrival details will be shared after booking
