South Dakota is blessed with an incredible variety of rocks and minerals, and one of them is the beautiful agate. They might look plain on the outside, but agates in South Dakota actually reveal a world of stunning patterns and colors on the inside!
Even though our state has a lot of agates, finding them isn’t always a walk in the park. Without knowing where to look, you might miss these hidden beauties entirely. That’s why we’re here to guide you through some of the best spots to find agates in South Dakota.
A couple of these are the Fairburn Agate beds and the Badlands, Tepee and Hell Canyons, Buffalo Gap, and Pleasant Valley Creek— all known for their abundance of agates.
Also, since South Dakota doesn’t have just one type of this gem (there are several!), we’ll also share with you the different kinds of agates you’ll find here. With all these information in hand, you’ll be ready in no time to uncover South Dakota agates!
What is South Dakota Agate?
Imagine slicing open a rock and finding a masterpiece of art inside. That’s what agate is like!
It’s a type of quartz that forms when water, rich with silica, flows into pockets in rocks. Over a long time, this silica slowly turns into layers that stack up to create the cool patterns we see inside the stone.
Some agates have wavy lines, while others might have spots or blobs of color. Each one is unique, further pushing up agate’s value and worth.
Despite its beauty, agates can be found in many places around the world, usually in volcanic areas or ancient lava flows. The cool part? You can find them right here in South Dakota.
Now, before we share with you the best spots to find agates in South Dakota, let’s first get to know the different types of this gem and whether you can find them here:
Moss Agates
Even though it’s called “moss” agate, it doesn’t actually have moss inside. Instead, it has awesome green, red, or brown patterns that look a lot like plants or moss. These patterns are caused by minerals like iron or manganese trapped inside the stone.
Moss agates are found in various places around the world. They often form in volcanic areas, just like other types of agates. And guess what? You can find moss agate in South Dakota!
Fire Agates
Unlike regular agates, fire agate has an incredible shimmering effect that looks like glowing flames that come from thin layers of iron oxide. When light hits these layers, it creates a dance of colors that can include red, orange, gold, and even green!
Fire agates are primarily found in the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. They love volcanic terrains and areas with hot springs. Unfortunately, fire agate isn’t commonly found in South Dakota.
Blue Lace Agates
Blue lace agate is known for its soft blue colors, paired with delicate white or light blue bands. These bands swirl together, making patterns that remind many of lacy ribbons or calm waves.
This type of agate has a very specific origin. It’s mainly found in Namibia, Africa. It’s not commonly found all over the world, even in South Dakota, which makes it even more special.
Fairburn Agates
Fairburn agates often have concentric rings of colors, sometimes looking a bit like a target, and other times, they can have swirling patterns that remind you of fingerprints.
If you’re wondering whether you can find this agate in South Dakota, you’re in for a treat! Fairburn agate is actually named after a location called Fairburn in our state, so yes, you can absolutely find Fairburn agates in South Dakota!
Banded Agates
Imagine layers upon layers of beautiful colors stacked one on top of the other— that’s what banded agate looks like. It has distinct, parallel lines of multiple colors, sort of like the rings inside a tree trunk. These bands can be wavy, straight, or a mix of both.
Luckily, banded agates can be found in South Dakota. Our region’s rich geology, shaped by ancient volcanic activities and erosional processes, provides a great environment for the formation of these beautiful stones.
If you’re curious to know about the other stunning natural treasures our state has, you can check out our article on the great crystal mines in South Dakota.
The key factors in our recommendations are:
- The deep experience and understanding of our team about the area
- Recommendations from local groups and clubs
- How easy it is to get the a particular location
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Weighing private and public locations
- The ability for both experienced and novice agate enthusiasts to find great samples
With these factors in mind we’ve been able to put together a fantastic list that just about anyone can use!
The Best Spots To Find Agates in South Dakota
South Dakota is endowed with many great gem mine sites. However, if you want to focus your search on agates, the best spots to find them are the following:
Always Confirm Access and Collection Rules!
Before heading out to any of the locations on our list you need to confirm access requirements and collection rules for both public and private locations directly with the location. We haven’t personally verified every location and the access requirements and collection rules often change without notice.
Many of the locations we mention will not allow collecting but are still great places for those who love to find beautiful rocks and minerals in the wild without keeping them. We also can’t guarantee you will find anything in these locations since they are constantly changing.
Always get updated information directly from the source ahead of time to ensure responsible rockhounding. If you want even more current options it’s always a good idea to contact local rock and mineral clubs and groups
Fairburn
Fairburn might be small in size, but it’s big on geological wonders. It’s surrounded by the vast landscapes of the Great Plains. The terrain here is a mix of rolling hills, grassy prairies, and unique rock formations.
When it comes to geology, Fairburn is a rockhound’s dream! It’s rich in minerals and gemstones, and it’s particularly known for a special type of stone: the Fairburn agate. They are famed for their stunning patterns and colors.
Getting to Fairburn is pretty straightforward. It’s accessible by road, and while it might be a bit off the beaten path, the journey is part of the adventure. Along the way, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of our diverse landscapes.
But before you head out here, it pays to review South Dakota’s updated collecting guidelines to make sure you’ll comply with them from the get-go.
Where we found agates in Fairburn
You can find agates about 10 miles northwest and south of the Game Farm Zoo, in badlands buttes to the end of the road, and south to the Cheyenne River in Fairburn.
Tepee Canyon
Nestled in the Black Hills region, Tepee Canyon is surrounded by a diverse range of landscapes that will leave any nature lover in awe. Here, you’ll see a blend of rocky outcrops, deep valleys, and lush forests.
Geologically speaking, this canyon is a wonderland. Among the geological treasures here are mesmerizing agates that are known for their vibrant colors and intricate patterns.
Reaching Tepee Canyon is an adventure in itself. Though it’s not as bustling as some of the major tourist spots, it’s accessible by road. However, the terrain can be rugged, so a good vehicle and some preparation might be necessary.
Where we found agates in the Tepee Canyon
To find agates, you can explore the diggings on the north side of the highway extending up to the Tepee Canyon.
Buffalo Gap
Buffalo Gap is a destination brimming with natural charm and geological wonders! It’s framed by vast prairies that stretch as far as the eye can see.
These open plains are occasionally interrupted by rugged badlands, presenting a mix of soft grassy terrains and dramatic rock formations.
Buffalo Gap sits in a region rich with geological treasures, including beautiful agates.
To travel here is like being on a journey of scenic beauty. Easily reachable by road, the town serves as a gateway to the Buffalo Gap National Grassland, a vast protected area showcasing the region’s natural splendors.
Where we found agates in Buffalo Gap
If you want to find agates in Buffalo Gap, you can search through the stream gravels, cut banks, breaks, and hillsides on the large area west to the county line.
Hell Canyon
Hell Canyon offers a mix of landscapes that would thrill any nature lover. Steep cliff walls, dense forests, and winding streams give the canyon its unique beauty. It has breathtaking tall rock formations and canyon floors with interesting trails and hidden nooks.
The rocks in this canyon are varied: some formed from powerful volcanic activities, while others from the slow shaping forces of erosion. Among these geological gems, agates have a starring role.
While the area is a bit secluded, Hell Canyon is accessible by road if you’re eyeing to go here. As you approach it, the landscape shifts from open plains to the rugged beauty of the Black Hills.
Where we found agates in Hell Canyon
You can find agates if you go north from the Jewel Cave National Monument to Hell Canyon.
Pleasant Valley Creek
Pleasant Valley Creek truly lives up to its name! It offers a tranquil escape with its gentle landscapes. The creek winds its way through the valley, nourishing the rich green meadows that surround it.
From a geological standpoint, Pleasant Valley Creek has some delightful surprises. Beneath the grassy surfaces and along the creek beds, rocks of various shapes and sizes hide, including agates.
The good news for you is that this spot is accessible by road. This makes it a great destination for families or solo adventurers who want a slice of South Dakota’s natural beauty without having to trek too far off the beaten path.
Where we found agates in the Pleasant Valley Creek
You can explore the area southwest of Pringle to find stunning agates in Pleasant Valley Creek.
Other Great Places To Find Agates in South Dakota
If you’ve already visited our top recommendations or are looking for other spots that you can explore here, below are many other agate-bearing sites in South Dakota:
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Custer | South along US-385 to Hot Springs |
| Custer | Beds surrounding town |
| Custer | Hills to the right of State Game Farm in Custer State Park |
| Custer | Wind Cave National Park |
| Fall River | Badland breaks in Ardmore |
| Fall River | Buttes in Oelrichs |
| Fall River | Stock dam and area breaks in Oelrichs |
| Fall River | Area on the north side of US-18 |
| Fall River | Huge alluvial gravel area in Oelrichs |
| Harding | Gravel bars of the Little Missouri River and all tributary creeks |
| Jackson | Kadoka area |
| Jackson | Buffalo Gap National Grassland in Philip Junction area |
| Meade | On top of the Fox Ridge area |
| Meade | Buttes on the north side of the road in Scenic |
| Minnehaha | Stream gravels, cut banks, gravel pits, and excavations in Sioux Falls |
| Minnehaha | Big Sioux River |
| Pennington | Hill City area mine dumps |
| Pennington | Hart Table Buttes |
| Shannon | Porcupine Creek to Sharps Corner |
| Shannon | Breaks along the road in Oglala to badlands in Smithwick |
| Shannon | Red Shirt area especially in breaks along the Cheyenne River |
| Washabaugh | Gravel beds, banks, and tributary draws of the White River |
| Washabaugh | General region to the north and east of Interior area |
Additional areas you can find agates
In case you’re having a difficult time locating agates, make sure you pay closer attention to the following specific areas where these rock often form and hide:
Streams and Creeks
Over time, as water flows in streams and creeks, it erodes the surrounding land and picks up different stones. The water’s motion often tumbles these rocks, smoothing and polishing them. When agates get caught up here, they’re transported and deposited in gravel beds or along banks, making them easier to spot.
The constant water flow also reveals new treasures, continually uncovering hidden agates and bringing them to the surface. This makes creeks and streams in South Dakota perfect hunting grounds for agates.
Rivers and Riverbanks
Rivers and their banks are nature’s grand showcases for many treasures, including agates. As rivers flow, they gather rocks from their sources, chiseling and carrying them downstream.
With their durable nature, agates resist this wear and tear, getting tumbled and smoothed in the process. This often brings out their vibrant patterns and colors. This makes riverbanks natural collection points for any rockhound.
Sediment Deposits
When water flows, it carries tiny bits of the land with it that settle and accumulate, forming sediment deposits. Agates, being resistant to weathering, often get nestled within these deposits.
That is why sediment deposits in South Dakota are prime search grounds for this gem. Every scoop of sediment that you’ll find can unveil beautiful South Dakota agates.
Common Agate-Hunting Questions
Before you start your journey here, we’ll answer some of the common questions when it comes to finding agates in South Dakota:
Is it illegal to collect agate in South Dakota?
Collecting agates for personal use is generally allowed on public lands in South Dakota, but there are some important restrictions to be aware of.
National Parks, for instance, prohibit the removal of any rocks or minerals. State Parks may also have their own set of rules. If you’re on private land, you’d need the landowner’s permission to collect anything, including agates.
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific rules of the area you’re in before collecting. You can also check out the official website of the South Dakota Bureau of Land Management (BLM) for more information.
The Best Places To Buy Agates In South Dakota
Aside from going out in the wild, you can also visit our trusted local rock and mineral shops that sell agates here in South Dakota. Below are some of our recommended ones.
- Dakota Stone Rock Shop – US-385, Hill City, SD 57745
- Dave’s Rock Shop – 1020 Mt Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730
- Ken’s Minerals – 12372 US-16, Custer, SD 57730
- Rock Shed – 515 1st St, Keystone, SD 57751
- Things That Rock – 257 Main St, Hill City, SD 57745
If you have any recommendations for our list please leave a comment below!
