Rockhound Locations in Delaware
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Delaware. 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 Delaware 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.
Delaware Rockhound Locations
Delaware was one of the first States to enter the union since it was one of the original 13 colonies. While it’s commonly overlooked, rock enthusiasts should not ignore it!
Delaware is the second smallest State in the U.S. and only has a few places to rockhound. The Piedmont region in Hockessin is a decent place to start, but along the beach and local canals are also reasonably plentiful. Delaware is an excellent place to find small Fossils, Quartz, and Sillimanite.
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 Delaware 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 Delaware 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, then grab your rock hammer, and let’s get started!
Dig For Quartz Crystals
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Henlopen | 38.797202, -75.089482 | Quartz crystals, Cape May Diamonds |
| Laurel | 38.530139, -75.576620 | Bog iron ore |
| Hoopes Reservoir | 39.785486, -75.625464 | Sillimanite |
| Deauville Beach | 38.722883, -75.076413 | Quartz crystals, Cape May Diamonds |
| Fowler Beach | 38.880324, -75.267821 | Quartz crystals, Cape May Diamonds |
| Brandywine Springs State Park, outside park boundaries | 39.808716, -75.576813 | Sillimanite |
The best region of Delaware for finding metamorphic rocks is the northwestern part of the State. It’s right along the border of Pennsylvania and is the more mountainous part of the State.
Hockessin and Hoopes Reservoir are two hot spots for finding Sillimanite and other silicon-based crystals.
Hockessin is located right along the eastern border of Pennsylvania. It’s the hillier portion of the State and is primarily rural and suburban.
This is a great spot for finding Garnet and Sillimanite.
Saint Georges and the Chesapeake Canal are excellent spots to find fossils and marine debris, such as sea shells.
Hoopes Reservoir is located just north of Willmington and east of Hockessin. The waterways are a great place for sediment deposits.
This is a great spot for finding Fossils and Sillimanite.
Cape Henlopen is just south of Wildwood, New Jersey. However, the North Atlantic Inlet separates the two States with a small waterway.
It’s one of the best spots to find various Quartz crystals.
The northern part of Delaware borders New Jersey and Pennsylvania. It’s deemed one of the nicest places to live and has several pleasant suburbs.
Brandywine and Dagsboro have several Fossils and crystal varieties available.
Brandywine Creek State Park is a beautiful, scenic state park. It’s surrounded primarily by woodlands and golf courses.
The only downside to this region is you need to be careful where you travel and how much you collect. You can find Sillimanite and Quartz in this part of the State.
Dig For Fossils
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Chesapeake & Delaware Canal | 39.558454, -75.589809 | Belemnite Fossils, Fossilized Clam shells, Fossilized Oyster shells |
| Pepper Creek | 38.525877, -75.246794 | Marine Fossils, Pleistocene Fossils |
| Coursey Pond | 38.989499, -75.517380 | Miocene Fossils |
| Killen Pond | 38.982533, -75.537796 | Miocene Fossils |
Dagsboro is a predominantly wooded area and not far from the ocean. It’s an excellent spot for anyone who loves the outdoors.
This spot is excellent for finding ancient Fossils and marine life.
Delaware is an underestimated State due primarily to its small size. But it has some of the loveliest natural landscapes and open spaces to explore!
Even though it’s not the largest State, it still has plenty to offer any willing rock hunters. We hope this list helped you find the best spots for starting your search!
Is It Legal To Collect Fossils In Delaware?
It is legal to collect fossils in most parts of Delaware. You must obtain a free permit from the Division of Fish and Wildlife (DNREC) to take fossils home. You must receive permission from property owners if you wish to collect rocks, minerals, and fossils on their lands.
Is Delaware a Good Place to Find Fossils?
Delaware is a good place to find fossils. The State is home to several varieties of prehistoric fossils, including shark teeth, plant material, and small prehistoric insects. Many of these fossils are in good condition, making the State an ideal spot for exploration.
Is It Dangerous To Rock Hunt In Delaware?
Delaware is a relatively calm State when compared to the wilder regions out West. However, you should always be careful when exploring underground mines or caverns. Always travel with companions and trained professionals when exploring underground.
Rock And Mineral Societies
The Delaware Mineralogical Society
The Delaware Mineralogical Society is the only official rock and mineral society in Delaware. They gather in the Delaware Museum of Natural History on the second Monday of each month.
They also host various field trips, and craft shows every year in which members can participate.
Delaware Museum of Nature and Science
Even though this isn’t a rock club, it’s an excellent spot for any rock lover to visit. This is also the place where the Mineralogical Society listed above gathers once a month.
If you’re planning only to visit the State, you should stop by and check out the local specimens.
The Parks Department manages the Delaware Mine. This isn’t a rock club, but it is a must-see part of the State for any rockhound.
They host tours and allow visitors to conduct self-guided tours as well. This isn’t a place for collecting rocks, but it’s a good place to learn more about the local geography.
