Rockhound Locations in Kentucky
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Kentucky. 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 Kentucky 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.
Kentucky Rockhound Locations
Kentucky is known for its rich farmland, a unique breed of grass, and laid-back lifestyle but rock hounds know it for Geodes, Agate, Fossils, and Gemstones.
Some of the best dig sites in Kentucky are in the western and southern regions of the State. Rockhounding in Kentucky can be difficult due to the State’s vast expanse of forests and mountains but keep scrolling below to find the best locations across the state.
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.
Kentucky Gemstone Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Little Sandy River | 38.117493, -83.109956 | Apatite, Almandine Garnet, Diopside, Feldspar |
| Ison Creek | 38.135677, -82.978739 | Magnetite, Olivine, Peridotite, Pyrope Garnet |
| Gratz mining dumps | 38.477179, -84.960547 | Barite, Calcite, Fluorite, Galena, Sphalerite |
| Kentucky River Bend | 37.847289, -84.766255 | Barite, Calcite, Fluorite, Galena, Sphalerite |
| Troy area mines | 37.851545, -84.766415 | Barite, Calcite, Fluorite, Galena, Sphalerite |
Crittenden County has an abundance of dig locations where you can find a variety of crystals like; Peridot, Barite, Pyrite, and Galena. This is one of the better choices for rockhounds hoping to dig for and collect gemstones.
Kentucky Agate Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Graves County | 36.670517, -88.541707 | Agate, Chalcedony, Chert, Jasper |
| Kentucky Lake, eastern shore | 36.937431, -88.169910 | Calcite Geodes, Jasper |
| Eddyville, area road cuts | 37.072507, -88.057435 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Mount Vernon road cuts | 37.444917, -84.322730 | Jasper, Geodes |
Graves County is located south of Crider County and is a perfect spot for gem collectors thanks to the various streams and creeks bringing gemstone-rich gravel down from the mountains.
Here you can find Agate, geodes, and other crystalline gems.
Kentucky Crystal Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| North of Dogwood | 36.911165, -88.582379 | Hematite |
| Birdsville area quarries | 37.201210, -88.372839 | Calcite, Dolomite crystals, Fluorite |
| Carrsville area mines | 37.395868, -88.352821 | Calcite, Fluorite, Quartz Crystals |
| Crider area | 37.194897, -87.971239 | Fluorite Crystals |
| Fredonia area | 37.220427, -88.092906 | Barite Crystals |
| Princeton area quarries | 37.091852, -87.845098 | Calcite, Fluorite Crystals |
Little Sandy River
Little Sandy River is located just northeast of Lincoln County. It’s a key point for hunting for gems in river and lake beds.
It’s an excellent spot for finding Apatite, Quartz crystals, and Garnet.
Lincoln County
Lincoln County is located to the northeast of Kentucky. The Southern portion of West Virginia is to the east, and Cincinnati is to the north.
This is a great spot to find Malachite, Celestine, and various Quartz crystals.
Kentucky Geode Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Vernon road cuts | 37.444917, -84.322730 | Geodes, Oolite |
| Tomkinsville regional quarries | 36.705636, -85.706176 | Geodes |
| Lincoln County | 37.343347, -84.682108 | Geodes |
| Green River banks | 37.429804, -84.742099 | Geodes (Calcite, Quartz) |
| Berea road cuts | 37.560403, -84.302351 | Geodes |
| Elizabethtown area | 37.635015, -85.951680 | Geodes |
| Vine Grove area quarries and streams | 37.813179, -85.984311 | Quartz Geodes |
| Glasgow creeks | 37.033370, -85.843589 | Geodes |
| Adair County, creek and river banks | 37.077639, -85.266142 | Quartz Geodes |
| Scottsville, area quarries | 36.741025, -86.190489 | Quartz Geodes |
Crider County
Crider County and the neighboring regions are some of the most abundant areas for rockhounding. Located near the tip of the western portion of the State it boasts some of the best varieties of Fluorite and geodes.
Green River Valley
Green River Valley is a solid location for finding Geodes. You’re almost guaranteed to come back with a trunk full of geodes to crack open or cut open with a diamond saw.
Kentucky Fossil Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Louisville area road cuts | 38.261069, -85.503025 | Silicified Fossils, Oolites |
| Rowletts area gravels and banks | 37.257907, -85.897608 | Onyx, Petrified wood |
| Louisville, banks of Ohio River | 38.240483, -85.834765 | Fossilized Specimens, Petrified wood |
| Rowan County | 38.188488, -83.371099 | Fossils |
Rowan County
Rowan County straddles Christy Creek and is a good spot to hunt for fossils.
The Historic Hidden River Cave isn’t a collective group but a must-see spot for all rock lovers. They host tours and are open every day, offering a historical tour of this vast cavern.
Be sure to check out the museum while you visit, and be sure to join a tour to learn all you can!
What Are the Rarest Stones Found in Kentucky?
Rubies and Sapphires have been discovered in Kentucky. Kentucky is traditionally a coal mining state and thus can produce rare gemstones. However, it’s best known for its array of Geodes, Agate, and semi-precious stones.
Is it Legal to Collect Stones in Kentucky?
Generally, it is legal to collect stones in Kentucky. However, you should avoid digging or excavating on public and private lands without permission. Collecting rocks, minerals, and crystals on the surface is legal in most instances. Avoid collecting large quantities of gravel from creeks and rivers.
Rock And Mineral Societies
The Kyana Geological Society is a great club for beginners and seasoned rock hunters. They meet every third Tuesday of the month at the Louisville Nature Center.
It’s conveniently located across from the local museum, making it a must-see spot for visitors.
Southeast Kentucky Gem, Mineral & Fossil Club
Unfortunately, the Southeast Kentucky Gem and Mineral Fossil Club don’t have a website. However, you can find a link to their Facebook group in the link above.
They announce their meetings every month on this page and are known for their education and love of rocks!
