Discover Shark Teeth at Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach
If your family loves fossils or simply enjoys unique outdoor adventures, Westmoreland State Park fossil beach should be at the top of your list. Nestled along the Potomac River in Virginia, this hidden gem offers something for everyone, from scenic hiking trails to camping to the thrill of uncovering fossilized shark teeth. My kids and I were hooked from our very first visit and came back the following weekend for more fun.
With decades of experience exploring parks and beaches in the US as well as overseas, I know what makes a destination special—and Westmoreland State Park checks all the boxes. In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to plan a perfect visit, from tips on fossil hunting to nearby attractions worth exploring.
Westmoreland State Park Is Worth the Trip
Westmoreland State Park is one of Virginia’s six original state parks, opened in 1936 as part of the Civilian Conservation Corps program. It spans over 1,300 acres of forests, cliffs, and beaches, offering plenty of space to explore. What makes this park truly unique is Fossil Beach, where you can search for ancient shark teeth and other fossils—a dream come true for curious kids and adults alike.
The park’s location along the coastline means it’s steeped in history and natural beauty. It’s one of the most stunning beaches near Fredericksburg VA and a short drive from the DC area. Whether you’re a fossil enthusiast, a hiker, or just looking for a peaceful family getaway, Westmoreland has something to offer.
What Makes Fossil Beach Special
The cliffs and surrounding areas erode naturally over time, depositing fossils along the shore. Shark teeth, whale bones, and other ancient remnants are often found here, turning a beach visit into a special scavenger hunt for fossils.
Check out the visitor center to learn more about the history and see an array of incredible fossils that have been found here. Some of them are huge!
Park Amenities and Services
Westmoreland State Park offers a wide range of amenities, including:
- A visitor center with educational exhibits, maps, some small animals like turtles and snakes, snacks, and a small gift shop.
- Picnic areas equipped with tables and lots of grass for playing (we brought a stomp rocket for the kids to play with).
- Clean, well-maintained restrooms.
Getting Started: Plan Your Visit
- General Information
- Phone: 804-493-8821
- Email: [email protected]
- Address: 145 Cliff Road, Montross, VA 22520
- Entrance Fees: $7 standard fee, $10 on weekends April-October
- Parking: There is ample parking throughout the park. If you’re going to Fossil Beach on a busy weekend, try to get there early.
Start at the Visitor Center
Your first stop should be the visitor center. Here, you can pick up a printed guide that shows the different types of shark teeth and fossils you might find at Fossil Beach. For my family, this guide turned fossil hunting into a fun game of discovery—we loved matching our finds to the illustrations. The center also features displays about the park’s history, geology, and local wildlife, you may even be lucky like us and catch a snake feeding!
Check their website or call ahead to find the schedule of classes. There are some really fun ones for both adults and children. We signed up for a shark tooth necklace class.
Hike to Fossil Beach
The hike to Fossil Beach via Big Meadow Trail is short but memorable. It’s about .6 miles and takes around 20 minutes with young kids. The trail is downhill on the way there, so be prepared for an uphill climb back. Here are some tips to make the hike easier:
- Footwear: Sandals or comfy shoes are fine for this trail. My older child even walked it barefoot!
- Water Crossing: There’s a small river to cross to reach the beach area. Depending on the tide, the water can range from ankle-deep to thigh-high, so dress accordingly. Bring water shoes if you’re concerned about footing.
- Pack Smart: Bring sunscreen, plenty of water, snacks, and a small pop-up tent for shade if you’re bringing a baby. The beach has no natural shade.
- Leave No Trace: Help keep the park pristine by packing out all your trash and respecting the natural environment.
Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach
Fossil hunting was the highlight of our visit to Westmoreland State Park. The thrill of uncovering a shark tooth or other ancient treasure is truly fun—trust me, I spent more time sifting through sand than my kids did!
What to Bring
- A kitchen colander or small sifter for filtering sand. We saw some people with these ones that looked awesome.
- Buckets or ziplock bags to store your finds.
- A small shovel or trowel for digging.
- Sand toys if your kids are into that.
- Towels and extra clothes, especially for kids who will inevitably get wet and sandy.
- Sunscreen, water, snacks, sunshade (there is very limited shade) if you’re going on a sunny day.
Insider Tips for Finding Shark Teeth
- Focus on the areas where waves meet the sand. This constant movement often uncovers hidden treasures.
- Look for darker, triangular shapes among the lighter sand.
- Be patient and take your time; even small finds are incredibly rewarding. Some of the shark teeth we found were so small, they were smaller than my pinky nail!
- Be on the lookout for fossil fragments, you may find partial shark teeth that have been broken over time.
- Visit during low tide when more beach area is exposed for searching.
During our first visit, we found three shark teeth, but with some practice, we uncovered 13 on our second trip. It’s easy to see why Fossil Beach keeps families coming back for more.
Identifying Your Fossils
Using the guide from the visitor center, we identified our shark teeth as belonging to several ancient species. This added an educational element to our trip and made our finds even more exciting. Some common species include sand tiger sharks and hammerhead teeth.
Family-Friendly Activities at Westmoreland State Park
Educational Programs and Classes
Westmoreland offers a variety of classes for kids and adults. My five-year-old loved the shark tooth necklace-making class. It was short, engaging, and packed with fascinating facts about the park’s history. These programs are a great way to an educational component to your visit.
Other classes include wildlife walks, fossil talks and turtle and snake feeding sessions, making it easy to find something for every interest.
Camping at Westmoreland
While the park’s cabins are undergoing renovations until 2026, the campgrounds remain open. For those who prefer RV camping, the park offers electric and water hookups.
Book your campsite early during peak seasons, as spots fill up quickly. We unfortunately, were not able to snag a cabin so we ended up staying in a hotel in nearby Colonial Beach.
Exploring the Park Beyond Fossil Beach
Hiking Trails
Westmoreland boasts seven miles of hiking trails that showcase its diverse landscapes. Here are some of our favorites:
- Turkey Neck Trail: A peaceful walk through wooded areas, perfect for families seeking a quieter experience. It is 1.2 miles long.
- Rock Spring Pond Trail: This scenic trail offers views of wetlands and is great for birdwatching. It is .6 miles long.
Each trail offers unique views and opportunities to connect with nature. Don’t forget your binoculars for spotting birds and other wildlife, we heard a lot of woodpeckers on our short walks.
Wildlife Viewing
Keep an eye out for the park’s abundant wildlife. From bald eagles and ospreys to deer and turtles, there’s always something to spot. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife activity.
Boating and Fishing
The park’s boat rentals allow families to explore the Potomac River. Canoeing or kayaking along the river provides a fresh perspective of the cliffs and surrounding area. The days we were there were a bit too windy, but we did see the kayaks available for rent.
Things to Do Nearby Westmoreland State Park
Colonial Beach
A charming beach town just a short drive away, Colonial Beach offers waterfront dining, quaint shops, and plenty of family-friendly activities. The boardwalk is perfect for a stroll and the beach is beautiful at sunrise and sunset.
During our visits to Westmoreland State Park, we visited Colonial Beach for a meal and ice cream after searching for shark teeth all day. The town is small, with a few restaurants, shops, and a nice beach.
George Washington’s Birthplace National Monument
Located about ten minutes from the park, George Washington’s Birthplace offers a glimpse into the early life of America’s first president. The property includes a colonial farm, visitor center, and walking trails.
Kings Dominion Amusement Park
For families with older kids, Kings Dominion amusement park near Richmond provides a thrilling day of roller coasters and attractions. It’s an exciting addition to a more relaxed trip to Westmoreland. Plan for a full day to visit the park and be sure to check the hours as their hours chance depending on the season.
Cultural Connection Questions: Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach
At Full Passport Family, we believe travel is about more than just seeing the sights—it’s a chance to foster deeper connections, spark curiosity, and create opportunities for lifelong learning. The questions below are designed to help families go beyond surface-level experiences, encouraging thoughtful conversations that build empathy, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the places and people you encounter.
Unlike many travel blogs that focus solely on logistics, we’re here to help you and your children engage meaningfully with the world, raising resilient, compassionate global citizens along the way. Use these questions throughout your trip to reflect, learn, and grow as a family.
- Who lived here before us?
Westmoreland State Park is on the ancestral lands of Native American tribes. What might their lives have been like? How do you think they used the land and river nearby? - What stories do fossils tell us?
The shark teeth you find here are millions of years old! What do these fossils tell us about the creatures that lived in this area long ago? - Why do we protect places like this?
Fossil Beach is a special place where people can learn about history and nature. What can we do to make sure it stays safe and beautiful for future families? - What connects us to others around the world?
Fossils like these are found in other parts of the world too. Why do you think the same types of sharks swam in oceans far away? How does this connect us to other places and people? - What can we learn from nature? Fossil Beach has so many treasures hidden in the sand. What does finding fossils teach us about the earth and how it has changed over time?
Westmoreland State Park Fossil Beach Final Reflections
Westmoreland State Park’s Fossil Beach in Virginia is a unique destination that combines adventure, education, and natural beauty. Whether you’re hunting for shark teeth, exploring hiking trails, or enjoying a family camping trip, the park offers endless opportunities for discovery and connection.
If you’re planning a trip, be sure to pack your colander, sunscreen, and sense of wonder. And don’t forget to leave room in your itinerary for nearby attractions that add even more depth to your adventure. Westmoreland State Park is a place you’ll want to visit again and again—just like we did.
