Rockhound Locations in Louisiana
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in Louisiana. 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 Louisiana 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.
Louisiana Rockhound Locations
Have you ever dreamed of going on a rock-hounding adventure in Louisiana? There are quite a few locations to dig for crystals, gems, Petrified Wood, Fossils, and Agate. With its diverse landscape, Louisiana can be a perfect place for you to hunt for rocks!
This article will discuss the top rockhound locations in Louisiana 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 Louisiana 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 Agate in Louisiana
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Pollock gravels and streams | 31.529583, -92.399103 | Agate, Petrified wood |
| Livingston Parish | 30.469261, -90.698134 | Carnelian |
| Tangipahoa Parish | 30.637055, -90.356293 | Carnelian |
| Tangipahoa River & tributaries | 30.724869, -90.485298 | Agate |
| Amite River Valley | 30.654699, -90.910581 | Agate |
| East & West Feliciana Parishes | 30.810694, -91.040055 | Agate |
| Baton Rouge streams | 30.532462, -90.980410 | Agate |
| Bogue Chitto River | 30.572524, -89.835136 | Agate |
| Old Pearl River | 30.467479, -89.775078 | Agate |
Tammany Parish is an ideal destination for rockhounds. This location offers various geological specimens like Quartz crystals, Amethyst, Calcite, and Agate. Visitors can collect specimens in the many creeks, rivers, and bayous.
You’ll spend most of your time hunting and collecting near the Bogue Chitto River and the Pearl River. Don’t forget to look in the connecting tributaries.
The Ouachita River is another great rockhound location in Louisiana. The riverbed gravel is a great place to collect Agate, Quartz, Petrified Wood, and Opalized Wood.
Make sure you stick to the gravel bars and sandbars because the current in the streams can be swift at times
Dig For Petrified Wood in Louisiana
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Toledo Bend | 31.559088, -93.735449 | Petrified palm wood |
| Leesville | 31.184020, -93.278919 | Petrified wood |
| Vernon Parish | 31.221483, -93.107857 | Silicified palm wood |
| Pollock | 31.529583, -92.399103 | Agate, Petrified wood |
| Rapides Parish | 31.431308, -92.692227 | Silicified palm wood |
| Ouachita River | 32.302777, -92.102773 | Petrified wood, Opalized wood |
| Gulfport | 30.473187, -89.161364 | Petrified wood |
Kisatchie National Forest is an excellent spot for rockhounding in Louisiana. It is home to various rocks and minerals, including Quartz, Black Tourmaline, and Pyrite. The forest boasts multiple geological features, including ridges, canyons, and caves.
Sabine Lake is a popular spot for rockhounding in Louisiana. This area has an abundance of fossils and various types of rocks, including Quartz, Shale, and Chert. You can access the site by boat or land and find fossils and rocks in the shallow waters and along the shoreline.
What Is the Only Type of Rock That Is Found Naturally in Louisiana?
Agate is the only type of rock that is found naturally in Louisiana. You will find natural agate in St. Tammany Parish and Ouachita River. The surface of the stone will display white, brown, and red banding.
Where Can You Find Fossils in Louisiana?
The best place to find fossils in Louisiana are Sabine Lake Public Oyster Area. The area is home to various fossils, including shark teeth, mollusks, and other marine fossils.
Rock And Mineral Societies
Ark-La-Tex Gem & Mineral Society
The Ark-La-Tex Gem & Mineral Society is an organization that is dedicated to the education and appreciation of rocks, minerals, and fossils.
The Society sponsors field trips to search for gems, minerals, and fossils and hosts lectures on the lapidary arts, demonstrations, and workshops. The Society also hosts an annual gem and mineral show with special exhibits, demonstrations, and vendors. These events aim to teach the proper techniques for collecting and identifying these natural wonders.
You can join the club by paying an annual fee of $25 for families and $15 for singles.
Baton Rouge Gem & Mineral Society (BRGMS)
The Baton Rouge Gem & Mineral Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to studying rocks, minerals, fossils, and gemstones. The Society seeks to promote and foster a greater appreciation for earth sciences and lapidary arts.
The Society provides meetings, field trips, and educational programs for its members and the public. These opportunities include seminars and workshops on rock and mineral identification, lapidary arts, and fossil collecting. You can join the club by paying an annual fee of $25 for families and $15 for singles.
Gem & Mineral Society of Louisiana (GMSL)
The GMSL is a non-profit society that strives to promote an understanding of the Earth sciences. It also fosters an appreciation for the beauty and diversity of rocks, minerals, and fossils. The Society is committed to providing educational programs, field trips, and workshops to the public on the topics of:
- Geology
- Mineralogy
- Paleontology
- Lapidary arts
The Society also offers various activities and resources to help its members further understand Earth Science. GMSL is committed to building a strong, knowledgeable, and passionate community of rock and mineral enthusiasts.
