Rockhound Locations in Minnesota

Minnesota Rockhound Locations

Minnesota is the 32nd State in the union. It’s a large State with a lot of open space and farmland. 

Lake Superior is the best area for rockhounding for Lake Superior agates. But other spots are also ideal for different types of crystals, such as central and southern areas. You can expect to find gold, quartz, and chalcedony in these areas. 

Lake Superior agates are the most popular crystals found in Minnesota. 

These agates were formed over a billion years ago when lava flowed through the Lake Superior area. As the lava cooled, air pockets formed in the crust, and chalcedony settled into these air pockets. 

Have you ever dreamed of going on a rock-hounding adventure in Minnesota? Rockhounds can find Agate, Jasper, Lake Superior Agate, and other crystals. With its diverse landscape, Minnesota can be a perfect place for you to hunt for rocks!

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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota 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 Agate

Eastern Minnesota is the best area for rockhounding in the State. This is where you’ll find various quarries and access to the mighty Lake Superior. 

This region is perfect for finding the State gemstone, Lake Superior Agate. However, you can also find Quartz, Jasper, and Gold. 

Jordan in Scott County is just a few miles west of Saint Paul. There are several quarries and open areas in this County that are ideal for rockhounding and panning. 

While you can expect to find various metamorphic rocks here, gold is the most prevalent mineral in Jordan County! 

Dig For Jasper

Quarry Island in Minneapolis is located within the jurisdiction of the Twin Cities. However, this isn’t within the heart of the cities. It’s a rural area just outside the city that has access to Minnesota’s various lakes and river systems. 

Lake Superior Agate has been discovered in this region and is highly sought-after by rockhounds and Agate collectors. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Jasper as well.

Central Minnesota isn’t far from the locations we discussed above. However, this area is better for beginners since you won’t have to deal with the Great Lakes directly. 

The small rivers and lakes have a vast array of minerals and rocks. In this region, you can find Quartz, Jasper, and Agate. 

Portsmouth Mine is a lake region just west of Lake Superior. These small lakes are tributaries of the Great Lakes and are great places for panning for various rocks and minerals. 

You can find Chalcedony, Agate, and Iron-based minerals. 

Dig For Crystals

Charles A. Lindberg State Park is an ideal open space for exploration and rock hunting. It’s located west of the Mississippi River and has many waterways worth exploring. 

You can find excellent varieties of Staurolites in this area. 

Acro Mine Lake is a collection of waterways in the center of the State. This area is in the middle of nowhere, but the closest landmarks are Highways 35 and 94. 

This is a great place to find Jasper, Binghamite, and Agate. 

Houston County and Caledonia are located in the far south of Minnesota. It’s right along the Wisconsin border and has a lot of open land for exploration. Just be careful you don’t wander onto privately owned farmland without permission. 

Calcite crystals are the most beautiful crystals found in this area. 

Quarry Hill is located several miles south of Minneapolis and is close to the Wisconsin border. It’s a rural area with plenty of places to explore. 

You can find Hematite, Calcite, and Pyrite in this area!

Minnesota is a large State in the north of the U.S. It’s the perfect State for finding various metamorphic and igneous crystals! 

We recommend visiting this State if you’re hoping to find some of the finest varieties of Agate and Jasper!