Coon Creek Science Center - fun for all ages
- kaylamcvey
- Jun 23
- 2 min read
On the hunt for dinosaurs that once swam the seas? Look no further than Leapwood, TN. With over 700 unique species, Coon Creek was dubbed a “lagerstätten” - a sedimentary layer with exceptionally well preserved organic matter. The sea that was once Coon Creek was approximately 130 ft. deep; there you can find shark teeth, clams, crabs, Mosasaurus bones, Plesiosaur bones, and more!
The site was discovered in the 1900’s when a geologist heard about a farmer grinding up the seashells to feed to his chickens. The Pink Palace Museum bought the farm from the Smith Family in 1988 - the Pink Palace started researching the site as early as 1921 when it was owned by Dave Weeks. I’ll not ruin the story for you though! You’ll hear all about it from Geologists Alan and Josh before you go down to the creek to dig!
Once they tell you the story of Coon Creek you’ll go outside - get your knife, bag, and start the trek to the creek with Alan and Josh. While there you get to dig to your heart’s content, ask all the questions, and find a multitude of fossils. When I say there are a multitude - I’m talking absurdly plentiful of well-intact fossils that you’re going to want to sit on the shelf… if cool little crabs and clams are your thing. Once the group has finished hunting for fossils you’ll head back up to the cleaning station to prep everything you found.
What you’ll need to wear and pack:
Water-proof shoes
Old clothes (or clothes you don’t mind getting muddy)
A change of clothes for the kiddos
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Water
Snacks for the little ones
Wanna join in on the fun? Community Days are year round and on the third Saturday of every month. $20/person with 9am and 1pm timeslots available. Reserve your spot by calling 731-645-1636!
Seeing as there’s not much to do in Leapwood - hop on over to Adamsville or Selmer for lunch! Adamsville has southern staples like Hope’s Cafe, Cardinal Cafe, and Sawmeal along with specialty places like Charlie’s New York Style Pizza, Kokomos 50’s Diner, and La Casita. Selmer has options such as China King, Hometown Pizza, Graze Cafe, Winks, Snack Shack, and more!
After lunch treat yourself to coffee and go shopping in our downtown areas! Both towns have plenty to offer for some relaxing downtime! If looking for places to go, to stay, or anything to do - message our Facebook page Explore McNairy or call us at 731-439-5773.
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