Filming Location
The Fossils Dig Site

Dr. Alan Grant and Dr. Ellie Sattler are deeply engrossed in excavating dinosaur fossils in a desert-like area. While they work, they are unexpectedly approached by John Hammond, the enigmatic entrepreneur who has a special interest in their research. This scene was shot in the United States. Intrigued to know the exact location? Continue reading or click on the map pin icon in the navigation section.

“You are alive when they start to eat you.”

Dr. Alan Grant

Where was The Fossils Dig Site filmed?

In this opening scene, Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern) are excavating dinosaur fossils in a desert area when they are unexpectedly approached by John Hammond (Richard Attenborough); the scene was filmed at the Red Rock Canyon State Recreation Area, near the city of Cantil, in California, USA.

More about Red Rock Canyon State Recreation Area

Red Rock Canyon State Recreation Area spans approximately 27,000 acres and is situated in California’s Mojave Desert. The area is known for its vividly colored rock formations, including cliffs and buttes composed primarily of red and orange sandstone. It hosts a diverse range of flora and fauna adapted to desert conditions. The park also contains features like the Hagen Canyon and the Ricardo Campground. Red Rock Canyon is rich in paleontological history; fossils such as those of ancient camels, rodents, and even mastodons have been discovered here. Geological forces like erosion have shaped the canyon’s dramatic features over millions of years, providing ample opportunities for hiking and geological study.

The scenes filmed at Red Rock Canyon:

Dr. Grant Explains Velociraptors to a Kid
(Jurassic Park 1993)
In this scene, a young boy expresses skepticism about the ferociousness of the Velociraptor, likening it to a turkey. Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), visibly irritated by the boy’s dismissive attitude, decides to teach him a vivid lesson. Using a fossilized raptor claw, he explains how Velociraptors were cunning, swift, and lethal predators. Grant graphically details how the raptor would attack its prey, emphasizing its strategic intelligence and terrifying agility. The lecture serves both to frighten the young boy into respecting the Velociraptor and to showcase Dr. Grant’s passion for, and deep understanding of, dinosaurs.

Helicopter Landing
(Jurassic Park 1993)
This scene serves as the cinematic introduction to Isla Nublar, the island where Jurassic Park is located. A helicopter carrying Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill), Dr. Ellie Sattler (Laura Dern), and Donald Gennaro (Martin Ferrero) makes a dramatic approach toward the island. John Hammond (Richard Attenborough), the owner of Jurassic Park, is also on board, enthusiastically welcoming his guests. The helicopter maneuvers through craggy peaks and lush forests before landing next to a waterfall, emphasizing the island’s remote and exotic nature.