Unearth Crook County's Hidden Treasures
Rockhounding
If you are seeking a way to get out and explore, consider a rockhounding adventure! Turn into an amateur geologist and take the time to get out and collect rocks and mineral specimens from Crook County’s natural environment.
Considered the rockhound capital of the world, Crook County boasts numerous rockhound sites and mines. Maury Mountain Agate Bed, White Fir and Bear Creek are just a sampling of the areas popular for rockhound enthusiasts.
Maps can be purchased at the Prineville – Crook County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center or Wagner’s Market for only $10, along with information on safety, land use, ethics, and the history of rockhounding in our area.
Leave No Trace
Be a Good Steward of the Land and Leave No Trace
- Plan ahead and prepare
- Travel and camp on durable surfaces
- Dispose of waste properly
- Leave what you find
- Minimize campfire impacts
- Respect wildlife
- Be considerate of other visitors
In the unique case of rockhounding, certain materials you find may be taken; however, depending on the object, they may need to be left behind or collected with the use of a proper permit. Learn more with the USDA Rockhounding Guide.
PURCHASE A ROCKHOUNDING MAP
If you are coming to our area and wanting to adventure into the Ochocos and rockhound, you can also purchase your map online. With each purchase we also toss in a copy of our Rockhound Brochure, a new and updated packet for all of you rockhounding enthusiasts!
This map is the product of a coordinated effort by the BLM, Prineville District; the USDA Forest Service, Ochoco National Forest; and the Prineville-Crook County Chamber of Commerce. It is intended to help with the identification of the various local rock materials and to keep your visit and experience safe, legal, productive and enjoyable. Learn more about how to prepare for and enjoy a safe and rewarding visit on Forest Service lands, here.
Our rockhounding map is a companion map to the Forest Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). An MVUM is a legal enforceable document that identifies the roads, trails, and areas where motor vehicle use is allowed in a Forest Service administrative unit or ranger district. MVUMs are reissued each year. It is the responsibility of the motor vehicle user to acquire the current MVUM. The MVUMs display National Forest System (NFS) routes (roads and trails) designated as open to motorized travel. The MVUMs also display allowed uses by vehicle class (ex. highway-legal vehicles, vehicles 50 inches in width or less and motorcycles); seasonal allowances, off travel distance allowances, and provides information on other travel rules and regulations.
Central Oregon Rockhounding Map
Purchase your Rockhounding Map from us online today! Upon completed purchase, we will mail it out within 3 business days. Included will be our Rockhounding Guide, as well as other media and materials regarding recreation in our area.
