If you’ve ever felt the thrill of discovering a stone straight from the earth, you know rockhounding is more than a hobby, it’s a passion. There are so many wonderful spots, however I feel these are some of the must-visit spots in Utah (last one is a bonus!)
1️⃣ Topaz Mountain (Juab County) —Free
This is a must-visit for clear, sherry-colored topaz crystals and rare red beryl (the red beryl is on a private claim so you will need to book a tour and it does cost). Bring a hammer, chisel, and safety glasses, topaz often needs a gentle nudge to break free. I have found some beautiful pieces here!
2️⃣ Dugway Geode Beds (Tooele County) — Free
Crack open a geode and you might find sparkling quartz or amethyst inside. Bring a sturdy bag and a good geode cracker if you have one! You will need a lot of patience with this one. Choose rocks that feel light or have a tiny rattle inside. These are the ones that will be hollow and have amazing crystals inside.
3️⃣ U-Dig Fossils (Millard County) — Paid
A bit different, but worth it — dig your own trilobites at this private quarry. Great for kids and beginners. When I went with my dad the time flew by! You will spend so much time breaking into shale, it almost becomes addicting. Be patient, you will break a lot of them, but with time and patience you will get a lot of good ones. Also worth mentioning, the owner that helped us was incredibly knowledgable and very kind, you will learn so much!
4️⃣ Lucin Variscite (Utah County) — Free
This one isn't for the faint of heart and you have to have the right resources. You can find its location North of Lucin. You will find an unmarked gate a few miles in. Turn off the main road onto a rutted track that leads up to the mine. It’s pretty rough and if you don't have the vehicle for it you will need to get out and walk. After crossing the ridge line you come to the abandoned mine. Bring a chisel and hammer, or even better, a hammer drill.
5️⃣ Moab Area Rockhounding (Grand County) — Free
This region is rich with agate, jasper, and petrified wood. Explore wash beds and keep an eye out for colorful nodules.
6️⃣ Spencer Opal Mines (Idaho border) — Paid
Ok, I know, this isn't in Utah, but it's still worth going! It’s a short trip north, but the chance to dig for fire opals is worth crossing state lines. I went during COVID, so the experience wasn't quite the same. However, I still purchased some beautiful pieces with amazing fire. Your experience will be far better than mine.
🌱 Collect Responsibly:
Before you head out, double-check land status (public, private, BLM) and do your full research. Make sure to pack out all your trash, and only take what you’ll cherish. Leave enough behind for future collectors to enjoy. Remember that the land gives us so much, and it’s up to us to care for it in return! Lastly and most important, have fun and be safe!
These are just a handful of places I've been and there so many more I haven't explored yet. Have other spots you'd recommend or want to see added? Comment below!