Rockhound locations in Alabama
Here at the Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Alabama. 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 Alabama 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 in minerals that can be found within them!
We are here for any questions or concerns that might arise about your adventures in mineral collecting.
Alabama Rockhound Locations
Alabama is a great state for rock hounds because there are plenty of dig sites and mines across the state. If you’re looking for Agate, Petrified Wood, Crystals, and other gemstones then Alabama won’t disappoint.
Some of the best rockhound locations are in Ashland, Rockford, and Tuscaloosa.
I’ve listed the locations, longitude, and latitude coordinates, as well as the types of gems and minerals collected at the locations below.
If you’re an active rock collector in Kentucky 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.
Alabama Crystal Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Pleasant Grove Road | 33.323598, -85.685992 | Quartz crystals |
| Buzzard Creek | 33.325114, -85.928315 | Chlorite, Green Quartz |
| E shores of Lake Martin | 32.807506, -85.896097 | Actinolite, Feldspar, Quartz crystals, Unakite |
| Lake Martin along river | 32.625225, -85.891362 | Ruby and Sapphire Crystals |
Ashland
Ashland is a great place for rockhounding in Alabama. This area is abundant in Quartz, Pyrite, and other minerals. You can find specimens in the banks of the nearby rivers, gravel beds, and road cuts.
Here are the best gem mines in Ashland:
- Gibson Mine for Garnets
- M & G Mine for Garnet, Apatite, and Smoky Quartz
- Pleasant Grove Road for Quartz crystals
- Shirley Mine for Garnet, Kyanite, Tourmaline, and Magnetite
Alabama Agate Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Mines & pits along Black Warrior River | 33.278371, -87.399426 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Mines 4 miles west of Brookwood | 33.261450, -87.387527 | Agate, Petrified Wood |
Tuscaloosa
Tuscaloosa is ideal for rockhounds looking to dig for Quartz, Pyrite, Calcite crystals, and fossils like trilobites and ammonites.
Here are some of the areas you can explore:
- You can explore the nearby Black Warrior River to collect Agates, Jasper, and Petrified Wood
- Sipsey Wilderness offers a unique opportunity to find Garnets, Tourmaline, and Smoky Quartz
- In Strip Mine, NE of Tuscaloosa, you will find Petrified Wood and Quartz
Alabama Gemstone Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Gibson Mine | 33.342021, -85.886354 | Garnets |
| Shirley Mine | 33.979381, -86.567145 | Garnet, Kyanite, Magnetite, Tourmaline |
| Pegmatite outcrops in Rockford | 32.926236, -86.217427 | Cassiterite, Feldspar, Muscovite |
| Pond Mine | 32.889112, -86.237833 | Feldspar, Garnet, Moonstone, Quartz, Tourmaline |
| Tin Mine | 32.899736, -86.206301 | Apatite, Cassiterite, Epidote, Garnet, Lepidolite, Topaz, Tourmaline |
| Bently Tin Mine | 32.891393, -86.246585 | Cassiterite crystals, Tantalite, Tourmaline |
| Shores of Lake Martin | 32.807506, -85.896097 | Epidote, Actinolite, Feldspar, Hematite |
| Hog Mountain | 33.075936, -85.849745 | Galena, Gold, Pyrite, Sphalerite |
Rockford
Rockford is a popular destination for rockhounds due to its pegmatite veins. The town is home to several quarries where you can find Quartz, Cassiterite, Aquamarine, and other minerals. This makes Rockford a great spot for experienced and novice rockhounds alike.
Here are some of the best places to find quality rocks in Rockford.
- You can explore Millsite Tin Mine for Lepidolite, Apatite, Cassiterite, Garnet, Sillimanite, Topaz, Epidote, and Albite
- Many pegmatite outcrops offer Cassiterite, Muscovite, and Quartz
- In Bently Tin Mine, you will get Tantalite, Cassiterite, and Tourmaline in abundance
Alabama Petrified Wood Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| S of Tuscaloosa | 33.085059, -87.550775 | Silicified Wood |
| Tuscaloosa off Highway 216 | 33.226676, -87.426471 | Petrified Wood |
| West of Brookwood | 33.261450, -87.387527 | Petrified Wood |
Talladega County
Talladega County, Alabama, is a great place for rockhounding. The area is home to several noteworthy geological sites, including the Talladega National Forest and the Choccolocco Valley.
In the Talladega National Forest, you can find a variety of Quartz, Agate, and Jasper but keep in mind you need to follow the rules and regulations for collecting at these locations. Do not break the rules!
The Choccolocco Valley is abundant in fossils, including shark teeth, petrified wood, and gastropods.
Are There Any Special Regulations I Should Be Aware of?
Yes, there are rules and regulations for rockhounding in Alabama. The Alabama Geological Survey has established guidelines for rockhounding that you must follow. This includes obtaining a permit before collecting rocks or minerals in state parks or state-owned land.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Go Rockhounding in Alabama?
The best time of the year to go rockhounding in Alabama is during the warmer months, from March to May and October to November. During this time, the weather is milder, and the ground is less likely to be muddy or wet. This makes it easier to find and collect rocks.
Rock and Mineral Societies
Alabama is home to several rock and mineral societies. These organizations provide excellent opportunities for rockhounding in the state.
Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society (AMLS)
AMLS is a non-profit organization that studies and appreciates rocks, minerals, and fossils. The society holds monthly meetings, field trips, and annual shows. Through the events, members can share their knowledge and experience with others.
AMLS also offers educational programs, lectures, and workshops to help members learn about the area’s geology.
Dothan Gem & Mineral Club (DGMC)
The DGMC is a vibrant group of rock and mineral enthusiasts. The club has a monthly gathering to share their knowledge and passion for the hobby. Members of the club have access to a variety of resources, like educational lectures, field trips, and access to equipment and tools.
Their regular meetings feature presentations and discussions on various topics.
The club also hosts an annual gem and mineral show in the spring, featuring displays, vendors, and educational programs. To become a member, you need an individual membership fee of $15 or a family membership fee of $20.
Huntsville Gem and Mineral Society (HGMS)
The HGMS is a dedicated society that provides educational opportunities for its members and the general public. Members can learn about mineralogy, geology, paleontology, and lapidary arts.
HGMS also has monthly meetings featuring guest speakers and field trips to local sites. The society charges an individual membership fee of $20 or a family membership fee of $25 per year.
Mobile Rock & Gem Society (MRGS)
The society offers a variety of activities and events, including field trips, lectures, workshops, and gem and mineral shows. Membership benefits include:
- Access to the club’s library
- Discounts on supplies and services
- Invitations to join in the society’s special events
MRGS also offers educational outreach activities for local schools, providing students with the opportunity to learn more about geology, mineralogy, and lapidary arts.
Montgomery Gem & Mineral Society (MGMS)
The MGMS is a non-profit organization that studies and appreciates rockhounding, lapidary arts, geology, gemology, and paleontology. The society encourages members to participate in meetings, lectures, field trips, and workshops.
MGMS also holds an annual show and sale, where members can showcase their work and buy specimens. Furthermore, society educates the public about the importance of mineralogy, fossils, and geology. The organization charges an individual membership fee of $15 or a family membership fee of $20 per year.
