Created 10/23/2019 12:25 PM
Introduction
Rockhounding in the Pacific Northwest is an amazing way to explore the outdoors and find some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. From stunning beaches to awe-inspiring mountains, the Pacific Northwest offers some of the best rockhounding in the United States. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of rock collecting or an adventurous weekend, there are plenty of spots to explore in Oregon and Washington. Oregon
Oregon is a rockhounding paradise, offering plenty of locations to explore. Here are some of the best spots to rockhound in the Beaver State:
Agate Beach - Agate Beach, located on the Oregon Coast near Newport, is a great spot for rockhounding. Here, you can find a variety of agates, jasper, and petrified wood. Agates come in a variety of colors and sizes, from deep reds to blues and greens. This beach is also a great spot for beachcombing, so bring your beachcombing tools and see what you can find.
John Day Fossil Beds National Monument - Located in the eastern part of Oregon, the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a great spot for rockhounding. Here, you can find fossils from the Miocene epoch, including petrified wood and fossilized shark teeth. There are also plenty of other rocks to be found, such as jasper, quartz, and agates.
Willamette National Forest - The Willamette National Forest is located in western Oregon and is a great spot for rockhounding. Here, you can find a variety of rocks, such as quartz, amethyst, and agates. You can also find petrified wood and fossilized plants, as well as other minerals. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before rockhounding to make sure you’re not disturbing any delicate ecosystems.
Washington
Washington is another great spot for rockhounding, offering plenty of locations to explore. Here are some of the best spots to rockhound in the Evergreen State:
Columbia River Gorge - The Columbia River Gorge is a great spot for rockhounding, offering a variety of rocks and minerals to explore. Here, you can find agates, jasper, and petrified wood, as well as other minerals. You can also find fossils from the Miocene epoch, including fossilized shark teeth. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before rockhounding to make sure you’re not disturbing any delicate ecosystems.
Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument - The Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument is located in southwestern Washington and is a great spot for rockhounding. Here, you can find a variety of rocks, such as obsidian, pumice, and scoria. You can also find fossils from the eruption of Mt. St. Helens, such as fossilized tree trunks and other plant material. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before rockhounding to make sure you’re not disturbing any delicate ecosystems.
Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park - The Ginkgo Petrified Forest State Park is located in southeastern Washington and is a great spot for rockhounding. Here, you can find petrified wood, as well as other minerals and fossils. You can also find fossils from the Miocene epoch, including fossilized shark teeth. Be sure to check with the local ranger station before rockhounding to make sure you’re not disturbing any delicate ecosystems.
Conclusion
Rockhounding in the Pacific Northwest is an amazing way to explore the outdoors and find some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day of rock collecting or an adventurous weekend, there are plenty of spots to explore in Oregon and Washington. From stunning beaches to awe-inspiring mountains, the Pacific Northwest offers some of the best rockhounding in the United States. With so many great spots to explore, you’re sure to find something that you love. So grab your rockhounding tools and get ready for an incredible adventure!
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