Welcome to the Wild Wild West: Unearthing Prehistoric Wonders in Kemmerer, Wyoming!

Long before coal miners and gunslingers established Kemmerer, Wyoming, in 1897, a posse of prehistoric creatures lay under a millennium of sediment. Dinosaurs like the mighty T. rex roamed alongside Triceratops and Stegosaurus, while Knightia fish—the world’s most widely exported fossil—swam in ancient lakes. At the heart of the famed Green River Formation, Kemmerer has earned its place as a global fossil hotspot. Here, world-renowned specimens like the Dawn Horse, Protorohippus, displayed at the Smithsonian, and the primitive bat, Onychonycteris finneyi, now housed at the American Museum of Natural History, were discovered.

But Kemmerer’s fossil legacy isn’t just about the past—it’s about inspiring the future. That’s where the Kemmerer Fossil & Mineral Expo shines, offering a vibrant celebration of the area’s unique paleontological riches and geological wonders. It’s a celebration of fossils, gems, and community. Held every Father’s Day weekend at the South Lincoln Training & Event Center, the Expo has grown into a highly anticipated annual event. Now entering its fourth year in 2025, it has become a staple for fossil enthusiasts, gem lovers, and families looking for a one-of-a-kind experience. The visionary behind the Expo, Keely Sweene, of Fossil Oasis, is a seasoned fossil preparator with over seven years of experience. Keely’s work, particularly with Green River Formation fossils and dinosaur specimens, fueled his inspiration to create a dedicated show in Kemmerer, uniting experts and visitors in a shared appreciation of this incredible region. 

Unlike typical gem and mineral shows, the Kemmerer Fossil & Mineral Expo combines education, discovery, and hands-on experiences. Kids can literally ‘dig’ into interactive activities, while attendees of all ages connect with vendors who bring a wealth of expertise and authentic finds. With an emphasis on fossils, especially from the region, one can directly connect and learn about unique finds from local quarries. Many of the vendors are seasoned fossil hunters, diggers, and gem miners who travel from across the U.S., offering rare specimens and personal insights into their discoveries. Imagine holding a real fossil fish while hearing the story of its excavation or learning the science behind a dazzling gem straight from the miner who unearthed it! 

More than an Expo or a fossil hub, an adventure awaits in Kemmerer! It’s a destination steeped in history and natural beauty. Explore the charming Western-style town center, where historic buildings house stores and restaurants, including the first J.C. Penney store, which is still open and blends modern shopping with nostalgic retail history. Discover the Hamsfork Museum, wander through nearby ghost towns, or visit the Fossil Butte National Monument Visitor Center and Museum, for free, to see some of the Green River Formation’s most significant finds. Fossil hunters won’t want to miss local quarry tours or the famous Blue Forest, where petrified wood is replaced with stunning blue chalcedony. For adventurists and travelers, Kemmerer offers easy access to spectacular attractions. Bear Lake, the ‘Caribbean of the West,’ with its crystal-blue waters, is just 40 minutes away. Yellowstone National Park and Jackson Hole are a scenic 2.5-hour drive and Salt Lake City lies only two hours to the south.

The Kemmerer Fossil & Mineral Expo isn’t just a show—it’s the community’s heart, a celebration of nature’s artistry, history’s mysteries, and a journey into the prehistoric wonders of Kemmerer, Wyoming. With its intimate, welcoming atmosphere and an emphasis on education and exploration, the Expo is an experience visitors will treasure. Plan a trip to Kemmerer and join the adventure that connects the ancient past with today’s vibrant community. Whether a passionate collector, a budding paleontologist, or just curious about the wonders of Wyoming, the Expo offers something truly special for everyone.

Visit the Kemmerer Fossil & Mineral Expo profile pages on the Xpo site for more information about the event (venue, address, contact info, dates, hours, admission, etc.), a list of vendors, photos, and Google-map directions to the show.