Rockhound Locations in New Mexico
Here at Rockhounding Maps, we give you access and information to the best dig sites for crystals and minerals in New Mexico. 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 New Mexico 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.
New Mexico Rockhound Locations
New Mexico offers fantastic spots to explore unique geological gems. With a variety of exciting rockhound locations, you’ll be able to find a wide range of rare minerals and stones to collect while enjoying the stunning scenery.
Rockhound locations in New Mexico include Pecos River, Desert Rose Mine, and Bisti Wilderness. You can explore Jemez National Recreation Area and Rockhound State Park.
This article will discuss the best rockhound locations in New Mexico 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 New Mexico 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!
New Mexico Geode Map
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| La Madera hillsides | 36.397844, -106.021157 | Geodes |
| Luna area | 33.819741, -108.985273 | Amethyst Geodes |
| Sapillo Creek, gravel beds | 33.034491, -108.187095 | Geodes with banded Agate |
| Alum Mountain | 33.132553, -108.219161 | Geodes with banded Agate |
If you want to experience some adventure, head down to the Pecos River. This river is rich in sediment and contains different types of rocks and minerals worth collecting. You’ll be looking for the following rocks:
The location also offers a variety of minerals, including Fluorite and Feldspar. So, grab your gear and explore the exciting rocks and minerals in the Pecos River!
Bisti Wilderness is famous for its incredible scenery, thanks to the eroded sandstone and shale formations. You can find Fossils, Petrified Wood, and the following variety of gemstones:
- Jasper
- Quartz
- Opal
- Amethyst crystal
- Tourmaline
Rockhounding in Rockhound State Park is a wonderful way to explore and appreciate the area’s natural beauty. You can find an array of rocks and minerals, including the following:
Some of the rocks in the park are rare, so you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for anything you can find! To ensure you have the best experience possible, follow the park’s regulations and respect the wildlife.
New Mexico Agate Maps
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Fra Cristobal Range | 33.400304, -107.120272 | Agate, Jasper |
| Jornada Valley | 33.136277, -107.024457 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, Petrified Wood |
| Elephant Butte | 33.172867, -107.044845 | Agate, Chert, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Cookes Peak area | 32.525966, -107.701447 | Agate, Carnelian, Chalcedony, Jasper, Fluorite |
| Big Diggins Mine | 32.045924, -107.943328 | High Quality Sagentic Agate |
| Rockhound State Park | 32.187278, -107.612646 | Sagenite Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Deming area | 32.331632, -107.705908 | Agate, Chalcedony, Chert, Jasper |
| Pyramid Mountains | 32.194632, -108.722189 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Big Hatchet Mountains | 31.621464, -108.364007 | Agate, Moss Opal |
| Mimbres Mountains | 32.844097, -107.736042 | Agate, Chalcedony, Chrysocolla, Jasper, Fluorite |
| Hatch, Caballo Mts | 32.710816, -107.107219 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, Quartz crystals |
| Luna | 33.818918, -108.954836 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, Quartz crystals |
| Mogollon | 33.389860, -108.802233 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper, Fluorite |
| Quemado | 34.341573, -108.492702 | Agate, Chalcedony, Jasper |
| Lee Russell & Kerr Canyons | 33.916717, -108.672631 | Agate |
| Elk Horn Park | 33.885355, -108.687740 | Agate |
| Plains of San Agustin | 33.883974, -108.258576 | Moss Agate, Jasper |
Jemez National Recreation Area has some of the country’s most picturesque and diverse terrains. You can also find some rare gems and minerals along the way. With a bit of luck, you can uncover the following pieces:
- Quartz crystals
- Jasper
- Geodes
- Fossils
Desert Rose Mine has everything you need for a great adventure. From majestic mountains and stunning vistas to a wide variety of rocks, this mine provides visitors with a truly unique experience.
The mine is full of hidden gems, like Turquoise, Garnet crystal, Quartz, Opal, gold, silver ore, and more. The area also has plenty of fossils and Petrified Wood to add to your collection. Nature lovers can explore the area on foot or take a guided tour.
Dig For Crystals and Gemstones in New Mexico
| Location Name | Longitude and Latitude | Rocks and Gemstones |
|---|---|---|
| Point of Rocks | 36.425121, -104.151962 | Searlesite, Villiaumite (fluorescent) |
| Sugarite Mine | 36.909837, -104.346290 | Amber |
| Rociada mines | 35.863791, -105.419681 | Copper minerals, Molybdenite |
| Harding Pegmatites | 36.193203, -105.794821 | Apatite, Bityite, Eucryptite |
| Picuris | 36.195110, -105.700814 | Staurolites |
| Pilar | 36.236514, -105.840925 | Garnet, Staurolites |
| Hatch | 32.756877, -107.135517 | Goethite, Fluorite, Quartz crystals |
| Kilbourne Hole | 31.973426, -106.966034 | Augite, Peridot crystals |
| Las Cruces | 32.061532, -106.603311 | Obsidian |
| Organ mines | 32.403974, -106.601033 | Brochantite, Cerussite, Chalcopyrite, Molybdenite, Chrysocolla, Onyx |
| Burro Peak mines | 32.571839, -108.400685 | Azurite, Chalcocite, Chalcopyrite, Chrysocolla, Fluorite, Galena, Malachite, Pyrite, Onyx |
| Granite Gap mines | 32.079211, -108.979892 | Argentite, Cerussite, Cuprite, Sphalerite |
| Hachita mines | 31.895407, -108.425362 | Cerussite, Silver, Stilbite, Wolframite |
| Apache Mine | 31.844760, -108.305319 | Calcite, Chrysocolla, Malachite, Turquoise |
| Mule Creek | 33.138068, -109.033623 | Apache Tears |
| Black Mountain | 33.380710, -108.289910 | Albite, Amethyst, Biotite, Sphene |
Are Geodes Found in New Mexico?
Geodes can be found in New Mexico and there is a list of known geode locations above. We’ve provided the area and GPS coordinates for every location.
Where Can I Find Agates in New Mexico?
The locations you can source for Agates in New Mexico are Santa Fe National Forest, near the Rio Grande River, and Rockhound State Park. You may also find agates in the high desert areas in the north and east, or near the volcanic areas in the south.
Rock And Mineral Societies
Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club
The non-profit organization hosts monthly meetings that allow members to show off their latest finds and share their knowledge of geology and lapidary. They also host the following events:
- Rock (Treasures of the Earth) shows
- Field trips
- Junior club activities
Whether you’re an experienced geologist or just starting, the Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club is the perfect place to learn and explore the fascinating world of gems and minerals. Members meet every fourth Thursday except for November and December.
Carlsbad Gem & Mineral Society
You’ll find plenty to learn and appreciate within the Carlsbad Society. Members come from all walks of life and backgrounds and share a common interest and passion for gems, minerals, and the earth’s natural wonders. The society hosts monthly meetings on the second Thursday of each month.
The Deming Gem & Mineral Society hosts General Member Meetings on the fourth Thursday and Board Meetings on the first Wednesday of each month. Membership dues are $2 for juniors, $15 for adults, and $25 for families (2 adults and children).
Grant County Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Society
The Grant County Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Society holds meetings on the second Thursday of every month. The society also has the following activities:
- Workshops
- Monthly educational and collecting field trips (first and third Saturdays of the month)
- Shows
So, if you’re looking to get involved in the exciting world of gem and mineral collecting, it’s best to join.
