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Attractions

History & Heritage

Explore Fossil Basin and uncover the area’s rich history. While it’s known for it’s paleontological past, there’s plenty more history to dig into. When visiting the Fossil Basin area, a great place to start is the Hamsfork Museum. The museum features artifacts and information about the area’s past. Exhibits include a replica of an underground coal mine, bootlegging stills, fossils and much more.

Another important part of Fossil Basin history happened in the early 1900s. In 1902, the first J.C. Penney store opened in Kemmerer, Wyoming. The JCPenney Kemmerer Mother Store is still in operation and sells current merchandise. It also features a museum portion with historical artifacts, including a pulley system that was used to deliver cash receipts. In addition to visiting the original JCPenney store, during the summer months, tours are available at the J.C. Penney Homestead, the home of James Cash “J.C.” Penney, Jr., who founded JC Penney.  The J.C. Penney Homestead is a National Historic Landmark located just down the block from the ‘Mother Store.’

Located in Fossil Butte National Monument, the Haddenham Cabin is another piece of Kemmerer area history. The cabin is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was a fossil hunter’s dwelling in the early 1900s.

Fossil Hunting & Digging

Unearth a fossil fish in a 52-million-year-old limestone graveyard! The Fossil Basin area has multiple ‘dig-your-own’ fossil quarries located in the hills surrounding ancient Fossil Lake, just west of Kemmerer and Diamondville. When fossil hunting at a private quarry, generally you’ll be able to take home at least some of the common fish fossils that you dig up. Going fossil digging at a private quarry is an incredible experience for people of all ages, especially those interested in the geological history of Earth.

Fossil Butte National Monument is a must-see attraction in the Kemmerer-Diamondville area. At the visitors center, over 300 fossils are displayed, including 10 species of mammals and 15 species of reptiles. These fossils have been found from Fossil Lake, the ancient lake in southwest Wyoming. Fossil Butte National Monument also offers a fossil quarry program during the summer, where you can help look for fossils and learn about the work that paleontologists do. The ranger talks offered also provide a great opportunity to learn more about the area’s history and Fossil Butte’s ecosystem.

Fossil Shops

Fossil Basin is home to a handful of fossil shops where you can purchase fossils that have been unearthed from the Green River Formation and other places around the world. You’ll also find rocks and other specimens at most of these shops.

Stop in and see some incredible pieces, and maybe even find something to take home with you!

Outdoor Recreation

Discover the outdoors in Kemmerer-Diamondville. The Fossil Basin area offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, wildlife viewing, and bird watching.

The Hams Fork River has multiple access points for fishing near Kemmerer. Other options for fishing in the area include Fontanelle Creek Recreation Area and Smiths Fork.

The Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge offers a variety of activities including fishing, hunting, boating, wildlife watching, and hiking. The refuge is home to a diversity of wildlife including trumpeter swans, moose, pronghorn antelope, bald and golden eagles, elk, river otters, and more.

About 30 miles north of Kemmerer, WY is the Fontenelle Creek Recreation Area which has reservoir access with a fully functional boat ramp, boat dock, campground, picnic tables, and other amenities.

Part of the Bridger-Teton National Forest lies not too far from Kemmerer, providing recreational opportunities including hiking, camping, horseback riding, ATVing, and snowmobiling.

At the Kemmerer Recreation Center, you can enjoy a variety of activities including racquetball, basketball, indoor rock wall, and more, all in a welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.

Diamondville Splash Pad

Cool off on a warm summer day at the Diamondville Splash Pad! Open from June to mid-September (weather permitting), this family-friendly spot offers a fun way to beat the heat from 10 AM until sundown.

Located in Diamondville Municipal Park on Diamondville Ave, the splash pad is free to enjoy and open to the public. While the splash pad itself cannot be reserved for private use, the park’s large pavilion can be reserved at no cost—just be sure to book in advance to secure exclusive use.

Bring the kids, pack a picnic, and enjoy a refreshing day at the Splash Pad!

To reserve the park pavilion, visit the Town of Diamondville website at diamondvillewyo.com or call town hall at 307-877-6676.

The Victory Theater

The Victory Theater in Downtown Kemmerer is a cherished local cinema offering a cozy and affordable movie-going experience. Located just across from Triangle Park, this single-screen theater has been serving the community since its opening around 2005. Take a break between adventures to treat yourself to some popcorn, a comfy seating, and a unique movie going experience. 

For more information, give Victory Theater a call at (307) 877-6684.

Kemmerer Walking Path

Starting at the Community Fishing Pond in Kemmerer, this walking path takes you on a short stroll close to wildlife, the calming waters of the Hams Fork River, and Wyoming’s stunning landscapes.

Kemmerer’s walking path is perfect for a serene dog walk, a warm outing with the family, and a nice break to stretch your legs between adventures.

Sage Lanes Bar & Grill - Bowling

Step into a piece of local history at Sage Lanes Bar & Grill, a beloved gathering spot that’s been part of the community for nearly 70 years. Originally the site of a popular roller rink known as Rick’s Rings, the building was rebuilt after a fire and later used as military barracks. Today, it’s home to the newly remodeled Sage Lanes—offering classic bowling fun, family-friendly games, community events, great food, and delicious ice cream.

Whether you’re rolling strikes, grabbing a bite, or just soaking in the nostalgic atmosphere, Sage Lanes is the perfect spot to unwind and make new memories.

For more information, call Sage Lanes Bar & Grill at (307) 877-3805.

Kid's Fishing Pond

The Kid’s Fishing Pond is a communal space in Kemmerer near the Hamsfork River. You can follow the walking path along the river and fish with the family if you’re looking for a small watering hole to explore.

For more information on the fishing pond rules and availability, call the Kemmerer Recreation Center at (307) 828-2365.

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