Rockhound Locations in Nevada
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Nevada. On top of that, we’ve created a resource page to assist with answering all of your gem and mineral collecting questions.
We hope you enjoy your time on our site and come back often because we’re always adding new dig locations and crystal collecting updates. This is a great resource for anyone who loves rockhounding, from beginners to experts alike!
Rockhounding in Nevada is a great way to discover the state’s diverse geology and fossilized wildlife. The number of potential collecting sites here makes it an excellent location for those interested not only in rocks, but also minerals that can be found within them!
We are here for any questions or concerns that might arise about your adventures in mineral collecting.
Nevada Rockhound Locations
Rockhounding in Nevada can be fun when you know where the best locations are. Fortunately, there are a variety of amazing rockhound locations in Nevada you can try and I highly recommend you connect with the local rock and mineral societies.
The Valley of Fire State Park, Death Valley National Park, and the Black Rock Desert are some of the best rockhound locations in Nevada. Other popular destinations are the Virgin Valley in Humboldt County and Garnet Hill.
Have you ever dreamed of going on a rock-hounding adventure in Nevada? There are quite a few locations to dig for crystals, gems, Petrified Wood, Fossils, and Agate. With its diverse landscape, Nevada can be a perfect place for you to hunt for rocks!
Be polite wherever you explore. Always pack out what you packed in. Meaning if you stop for a snack while rockhounding at any site, clean up after yourself and pack your trash items back out with you.
Always do your research regarding laws and regulations, and don’t forget to ask for permission to access an area and collect specimens.
This article will discuss the top rockhound locations in Nevada and the different types of rocks and minerals you can collect. Don’t forget to make it to the bottom of the page because we list out the best rock and mineral societies in the state. If you’re serious about collecting rocks then you’ll want to join one of these amazing clubs.
If you’re an active rock collector in Nevada then send us an email about your favorite locations and we will feature you on the site and we might sponsor you as well. That’s right, we will pay you to go dig for rocks and minerals.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a rock-hounding journey, read on to find out more!
Dig For Crystals
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Jean area mines | 35.842056, -115.476075 | Cobalt, Copper, Gold, Nickel, Palladium, Platinum, Radium, Silver, and Zinc minerals |
| Las Vegas | 36.102512, -114.938830 | Amethyst |
| Las Vegas | 35.743073, -114.387996 | Manganese minerals |
| Las Vegas | 36.462823, -116.049023 | Lead, Silver, and Zinc minerals |
| Nelson | 35.707587, -114.708413 | Almandine Garnet |
| Gass Peak | 36.369088, -115.172289 | Gold, Silver, and Zinc minerals |
| Searchlight | 35.496901, -114.924340 | Copper, Gold, Lead, and Silver minerals |
| Crescent Peak | 35.473915, -115.127867 | Turquoise, Copper, Gold, Lead, Molybdenum, Silver, and Vanadium minerals |
| Valley of Fire State Park | 36.398105, -114.693667 | Wonderstone, Chalcedony |
| Scotty’s Junction | 37.232906, -116.976121 | Arrowheads, Obsidian, Apache Tears |
| Beatty area mining dumps | 36.901533, -116.836241 | Cinnabar, Opalite, plus Copper, Gold, Silver, Lead, Mercury, and Platinum minerals |
| Gold Mountain | 37.256793, -117.304410 | Citrine, Quartz crystals |
| Sugar Loaf Peak | 40.321106, -114.257172 | Turquoise |
| Fish Lake | 37.741817, -118.054241 | Apache tears |
| Rock Hill | 38.149974, -117.949524 | Variscite |
| Fish Lake Valley | 37.796192, -118.009028 | Cinnabar, Opalite |
| Goldfield | 37.708672, -117.222701 | Pyrite, Quartz crystals, Copper, Gold, Manganese, Silver, and Zinc Minerals |
Located east of Las Vegas is Valley of Fire State Park. Here, you can find amazing pieces such as:
Don’t forget your rock hammer, chisel, and safety glasses to help you break down the rocks and get to the treasures within. With a little exploration, you’ll find something unique and remarkable during your rockhounding excursion at Valley of Fire State Park
Rockhounding in Death Valley National Park, Nevada, is an exciting adventure! With its vast expanse of mountains, dunes, and canyons, you can find a collection of the following rocks:
- Quartz
- Fossils
From the beautiful desert views to the abundance of minerals and fossils, there is something for everyone. Whether you are an experienced rockhound or just getting started, you’ll have a lifetime adventure at Death Valley.
Dig For Geodes and Gems
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Black Rock Desert | 40.885914, -119.056732 | Petrified wood, Agate, Fire Opal, Geodes, Obsidian, Tourmaline, Malachite |
| Star Peak, E side | 40.520620, -118.152105 | Geodes |
| Yucca Mountain | 36.978233, -116.463148 | Geodes |
| Lincoln Hill | 40.292256, -118.212178 | Blue and Pink Dumortierite |
| Nightingale Mountain Range | 40.081488, -119.232893 | Garnets |
| White Lake | 39.647969, -119.956930 | Chrysocolla, Malachite |
| Luning | 38.509570, -118.127268 | Azurite, Malachite |
| Nellie Spring | 41.392806, -119.521917 | Opalite |
| Vya area | 41.251254, -119.556966 | Opal, Obsidian |
| Excelsior Mountain | 38.329028, -118.339084 | Wonderstone, Turquoise, Variscite |
| Churchill Butte | 39.328320, -119.285228 | Tungsten minerals |
| Pine Nut Mountains | 39.020697, -119.562049 | Thulite, Topaz |
| Little Antelope Summit | 39.395732, -115.467825 | Wonderstone |
| Garnet Hill | 39.286058, -114.953229 | Garnet |
| Silver Could Mine | 41.052770, -116.624842 | Cinnabar |
| Little High Rock Canyon | 41.289131, -119.293050 | Obsidian nodules |
| Fox Mine | 41.141450, -116.611109 | Turquoise |
| Beowawe area mines | 40.576714, -116.515289 | Cinnabar |
| Mountain City | 41.841869, -115.965708 | Azurite, Malachite |
The Black Rock Desert region is in the northwestern Great Basin and northwestern Nevada. The area is especially popular among amateur geologists, as it’s a great place to gain hands-on rockhound experience.
The area’s diverse geology offers everything from classic Quartz crystals to everyone’s favorite Obsidian. With a bit of patience, you’re sure to find some incredible specimens to add to your collection.
Virgin Valley, in Humboldt County, is another great destination for rockhounds! It’s known for beautiful rocks and minerals, such as the following:
- Opal
- Quartz
- Chalcedony
- Petrified Wood
- Onyx
You can also find ancient petroglyphs and fossils in the area. In addition, Virgin Valley has many hot springs and unique geologic formations, making it an amazing place to explore.
Garnet Hill is located in White Pine County. The hill is filled with gorgeous gems, minerals, and fossils waiting to be discovered. From the large, deep red Garnets to the orange-pink almandine, there is no shortage of Garnet crystals here. Bring your hammer for rock breaking if you want to uncover hidden treasures.
You’ll also find several picnic sites and barbeque areas to spend time alone or with loved ones. The surrounding area is also full of history and culture, making it an ideal rock-hounding adventure destination.
Dig For Agate and Petrified Wood
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Virgin Valley | 41.830163, -119.000171 | Agate, Chalcedony, Chert, Flint, Jasper, Opalized wood, Petrified wood |
| Agate Point | 41.750416, -118.335737 | Agate, Chalcedony, Chert, Flint, Jasper |
| Lander County | 39.885759, -117.113024 | Chalcedony, Jasper, Opal, Opalite |
| Golconda | 40.978696, -117.483383 | Chalcedony, Petrified wood |
| Goose Creek | 41.948075, -114.074403 | Petrified wood |
| Fernley Hills | 39.533640, -119.156639 | Agate, Chert, Jasper |
| Walker Lake | 38.784921, -118.742462 | Agate, Chalcedony, Fossils, Petrified wood |
| Aurora Ghost Town | 38.288328, -118.901713 | Jasper, Quartz crystals |
| Fernley | 39.531456, -119.234182 | Agate |
| Gerlach | 40.664993, -119.370111 | Agate, Silicified wood |
| Coaldale | 38.029943, -117.879362 | Agate, Chert, Jasper, Turquoise |
| Montezuma Peak | 37.662568, -117.361110 | Chalcedony, Chert, Jasper, Quartz crystals, Obsidian, Opalized wood |
| Panaca | 37.760519, -114.367397 | Chalcedony, Chert, Flint |
| Tonopah | 38.079961, -117.023361 | Petrified Algae, Jade |
| Veterans Memorial Highway | 38.025071, -117.784839 | Agate, Petrified wood, Chalcedony |
Is it Legal to Collect Rocks in Nevada?
In Nevada, it’s legal to collect rocks as long as you aren’t collecting them from a protected area. Collecting rock from state land requires a permit from the Bureau of Land Management. Likewise, collecting from a private property requires permission from the property owner.
Where Can I Dig for Turquoise in Nevada?
Here is a list of locations you can dig for Turquoise in Nevada; Royston Mine, Godber Mine, Kingman Mine.
Rock And Mineral Societies
Nevada has several clubs and societies to explore. Whether a seasoned collector or a beginner, these organizations are a great way to make friends and expand your knowledge.
Great Basin Gem & Mineral Club
The Great Basin Gem & Mineral Club is a home for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts looking to explore the wonders of the earth. Membership to this club costs $20 for individuals and $35 for families. Members can join field trips, attend educational events, and even participate in the annual show and sale.
The club meets on the last Monday of the month.
The Reno Gem & Mineral Society is an amazing group passionate about geology, gemology, and mineralogy! This vibrant and enthusiastic group meets monthly to discuss the latest finds, upcoming events, and rock identification.
The society also offers art classes and organizes educational field trips. It also encourages members to participate in outreach activities. You can join as an individual, a family, or a student.
Southern Nevada Gem & Mineral Society
The Southern Nevada Gem & Mineral Society is a nonprofit educational community service organization. The Society has many activities and events that members can take part in. There is something for everyone – from field trips and community outreaches to workshops and classes.
If you’re looking to meet other people who share your interests or want to learn more about the incredible beauty of the earth, this is the place for you! A single membership costs $25, and a family one goes for $35.
The Nevada County Gem and Mineral Society
The Nevada County Gem and Mineral Society offers its members educational, social, and recreational opportunities. The organization promotes knowledge and appreciation of the earth sciences and materials through field trips, lectures, and displays of gems, minerals, and fossils. It also offers an annual “Earth’s Treasures” show with an auction of minerals and fossils.
Club members meet every first Tuesday of the month except for July and December.
