Agate Collecting in Paint Rock Valley
If you’re looking to collect Agate then The Cooter Pond Park, in Montgomery, AL, is an excellent location for Alabama rockhounds.
Most of the land in this area is managed by the state and Agate is plentiful in this region. It is literally laying everywhere but you need to be at the right elevation.
Look in the washes down the sides of the mountains for great pieces of painted rock Agate.
This location is excellent for families, junior rockhounds, and old-timers because you’ll be walking up a river bed and picking up Agate.
Keep reading below to learn more about what to bring, types of clothing to wear, and driving directions.
Types of Agate
You won’t be disappointed by visiting this location because the Agate is easy to spot and is very plentiful if you’re at the right elevation. 1200 – 1400 feet seems to be the right elevation.
Here’s a list of the most popular finds.
- Agate – yellow-orange in color and you can find an occasional blue-green piece. They range in size from small water-worn pebbles to large chunks of rock.
This location is very popular due to its accessibility and it’s fairly easy to fill your bucket full of Alabama river Agate.
Tools and Tips For Crystals Digs
A rockhound will want to pack a variety of tools for this trip. They should have snacks and drinks in case they get thirsty or hungry, as well as packing materials for crystals and minerals collected onsite. Don’t forget about the weather and make sure to dress appropriately.
Must-Have Tools and Accessories
- Sunscreen
- 5-gallon buckets
- 3-gallon buckets
- Hat or sombrero
- Estwing rock hammer
- Small hand rake
- Small garden tools
- Gloves
- Long pants
- Long sleeve (depends on weather)
- Boots
- Towels for drying off
- Fresh clothes (you’re going to sweat)
Please take into consideration the local weather before you head to the park. Alabama’s summer heat can be brutal at times. So, dress accordingly.
Most importantly, have fun collecting these Agates.
Driving directions
You’ll be walking the Paint Rock river and the small feeder streams off of Hwy 65.
You can also access the actual Paint Rock river by turning right on Short St. (if you headed north bound on 72 you’ll see the road after you pass through the city of Paint rock). If you’ve gone to the antique store then you’ve gone too far. You’ll drive over the river and the road will make a hard left. Once you make the hard left you’ll want to stay straight. You’re now headed to Fern Cave National Wildlife Refuge. You can park on the side of the road and access the river.
Address: Paint Rock, Alabama
Type or copy the GPS coordinates below into your Google or Apple Maps.
GPS Coordinates
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