Fictional archeological dig sites are often used to as the basis for sudden discoveries that push the boundaries of what is known. This often manifests as collapsing floors that lead to previously uncharted and hidden chambers or lower cave systems. Forgotten treasures, horrors, and ancient knowledge may rest in these places, but often it is protected or guarded. Traps may be present, ancient machinery may slowly tick to life, and factions tasked with keeping the site safe, or being the first to unlock its’ secrets, may spring into action.

Archeological dig sites may be a place where a treasure map or other item is found that results in a treasure hunt.

Fictional archeological dig sites are often located in badlands, near tar pits, in deserts, in caves, deep within jungles, or in other regions or near other interesting terrain. Often these sites are in remote locations, which can be used in narratives to foster a sense of tension or adventure. They may have tents or barracks to help house both samples and those staying at the dig site. There may be mobile laboratories. Dig sites may be funded by a museum.

Dig sites may be divided into sectors or sections with each roped off from one another. This allows for better organization and categorization of samples found. There may be scaffolding.

If the fictional dig site contains ruins, there may be additional hidden areas within the structure waiting to be explored.