Discovering the dazzling world of crystals in the heartland of America is an enchanting experience, and Kansas, with its rich geological history, is a treasure trove for enthusiasts and collectors alike. The Sunflower State boasts a multitude of incredible and beautiful crystals that not only captivate the eye but also spark curiosity and wonder.
With dedication, patience, and a keen eye, crystal hunters can find success in the great state of Kansas. The thrill of the hunt and the sheer beauty and awe-inspiring allure of these crystals make the experience truly unforgettable. Let the magic of Kansas crystals guide you as you embark on this exciting adventure!
- The extensive local experience and understanding of our team
- Input from multiple local crystal hunters and crystal collecting groups
- The accessibility of the crystal mining locations
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Private and public locations
- A desire to include locations for both experienced crystal hunters and those who are just starting out
Using these weights we think we’ve put together the best list out there for those who love finding new crystals for our collections!
The Types of Kansas Crystals You Can Find
As you venture into the world of crystal hunting in Kansas, you’ll be amazed by the astonishing variety of specimens you can uncover. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a novice enthusiast, Kansas has something for everyone, with countless sites and resources to support your pursuit of these geological marvels.
These striking formations, unique shapes, colors, and properties have become increasingly popular among hobbyists and professional collectors!
Rare crystals found in Kansas
- Amethyst
- Calcite
- Galena
- Opal
- Pyrite
- Quartz
- Septarian nodule
More common crystals found here
- Agate
- Celestite
- Chalcedony
- Halite
- Jasper
The Best Locations For Crystal Mining in Kansas
Here are a few of Kansas’ best places for crystal hunting. We’ve found some of the rarest crystals by exploring them, and we have great faith that you will, too!
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.
These requirements are subject to change without notice and may differ from what we state below.
Always get updated information directly from the source ahead of time to ensure responsible rockhounding.
Big Blue River
Originating in the state’s northeastern corner, the Big Blue River meanders for approximately 359 miles before converging with the Kansas River near Manhattan. Its fertile surroundings and abundant resources have attracted humans for centuries, with early Native American tribes and European settlers drawn to its banks. This area can be included on your list of places to find gems in Kansas.
The history of the Big Blue River is a tale of perseverance and growth, as it played a pivotal role in the development of Kansas, providing a critical water source for agriculture and establishing numerous towns along its course. The river’s significance is also marked by its role in the United States’ westward expansion when pioneers relied on its waters and surrounding lands to sustain their journey.
Today, the Big Blue River offers a unique opportunity for crystal hunters, as its diverse geological landscapes hold a wealth of hidden gems. The river’s banks and surrounding areas are rich in minerals, making it a prime location to find a variety of beautiful and fascinating crystals.
Where we found crystals at Big Blue River
We have collected various crystals, including agate, chalcedony, and jasper, in the gravel beds of the Big Blue River.
The tools every crystal hunter will need
When you're out looking for crystals having the right tools for the job is very important. You don't need a lot for most trips but there are a handful that are critical and will make your life a lot easier.
We get asked a lot about the equipment we use. Over the years we've found a handful of tools that we recommend to both new and experienced crystal miners which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding supplies guide. These are quality options that also happen to be relatively inexpensive.
Below are the basic tools that make your life so much easier and save you a ton of time. Check out the full guide to see everything we recommend bringing. One quick note, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases but we try very hard to only recommend gear we would use ourselves and often recommend brands you can't find on Amazon.
At a minimum you should have:
1 - Sturdy rock hammer: The Estwing Rock Pick is our standard
2 - Rugged chisels: Try Kendo' 3-piece Chisel Set
3 - Compact shovel: The Koleiya 28-inch shovel works well
4 - Rock screen pan: The Wazakura Soil Sieve Set fits the bill
5 - Eye protection: DeWalt Safety Glasses are cheap and comfortable
6 - Head protection: Malta's Safety Helmet has been our go-to
7 - Jewelers lens with at least 20x magnification: Jarlink's Jewelers Loop is perfect
The crystal-finding books that we use most
There are also a few books that have been extremely helpful in the search for gems. These books have great recommendations and tips:
National Audubon Society Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals: North America
Northwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northwestern Quadrant
We provide links to find these tools on Amazon but some can also be found at your local hardware stores. For more recommendations check out the link to our full tool guide above.
Bluff Creek
For crystal hunters, Bluff Creek presents a unique opportunity to explore its geological wealth, as its diverse landscapes offer an array of hidden gems. The creek’s eroding banks and surrounding areas have exposed a variety of minerals, creating a veritable treasure trove of crystals. Bluff Creek provides a cornucopia of geological marvels for collectors of all skill levels, from captivating quartz specimens to enchanting agates.
The history of Bluff Creek is interwoven with the story of human settlement in the area, as Native American tribes and European settlers alike were drawn to the creek’s abundant resources. Its waters provided sustenance for both people and wildlife and its fertile surroundings facilitated agriculture, shaping the communities that formed along its banks.
Where we found crystals at Bluff Creek
The steep hills of Bluff Creek are good places to look for agate, jasper, and opal crystals. You can determine crystal prices through this detailed guide we’ve made.
Pony Creek Lake
Pony Creek offers an enticing opportunity to delve into its geological richness. The diverse landscapes around the creek have yielded a variety of minerals, making it a prime spot to uncover unique and beautiful crystals. From shimmering quartz formations to intricate agates, Pony Creek is a haven for collectors and enthusiasts of all levels.
Pony Creek presents a chance to unearth stunning crystals and connects you with the rich history and breathtaking natural beauty of this enchanting Kansas waterway.
Where we found crystals at Pony Creek Lake
We found celestite crystals on the banks of Pony Creek Lake in Ellsworth County.
Smoky Hill River
Smoky Hill River, a hidden gem in Kansas’ heartland, winds through the state, offering crystal hunters and history buffs a real slice of paradise. This picturesque river flows for 575 miles, starting in Colorado’s High Plains and ending at the Kansas River. Smoky Hill River’s banks have been the region’s lifeblood, cradling communities and ecosystems that have thrived thanks to its generous resources.
Smoky Hill River is like striking gold for those itching to find some crystals. The diverse landscapes have cooked up various minerals, creating a veritable treasure trove for anyone with an eye for exquisite crystals. Smoky Hill River has got everything from eye-catching quartz to spellbinding agates, catering to both greenhorns and seasoned collectors.
Where we found crystals at the Smoky Hill River
Many agate crystals can be located up and downstream of the Smoky Hill River.
Verdigris River
Verdigris River, a breathtaking waterway tucked away in southeastern Kansas, weaves a captivating tale for crystal hunters, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. This enchanting river stretches over 310 miles, beginning in Kansas’ Flint Hills and meandering southward until it joins the Arkansas River in Oklahoma. The Verdigris River has been a cornerstone of the region, giving life to flourishing communities and ecosystems along its banks.
Exploring Verdigris River is a walk through history with the added thrill of discovering breathtaking crystals. So, don’t let this opportunity slip through your fingers; dive into this remarkable Kansas waterway’s rich history and stunning beauty and see what gems you might uncover!
Where we found crystals at Verdigris River
We had the best success discovering agate, chalcedony, and jasper crystals along the Verdigris River.
Our Other Favorite Places For Crystal Hunting
Consequently, there are a lot of beautiful locations in the state where you can look for crystals and geodes in Kansas. The following is a list of other options to visit:
Where you can find crystals for free in Kansas
We’ll go over some places to look for crystals without paying any money. While may wonderful attractions charge an entry fee, other locations are still free to explore.
| County | Location |
| Cherokee | Baxter Springs area mines for galena and pyrite |
| Cloud | Old River Bed for agate and jasper |
| Geary | Republican River gravels for agate and jasper |
| Harper | In the gravel bars of Chikaskia River for agate and jasper |
| Jefferson | Area glacial moraines and gravel drifts for agate, chalcedony, and jasper |
| Shawnee | Topeka glacial moraines near city for agates |
| Washington | Mill Creek in Permian outcrops |
| Woodson | Yates Center area for amethyst and quartz |
Other great places to dig for crystals
There are other areas to seek crystals if you don’t mind spending a dollar or two. These locations’ prices vary with the seasons, and there are occasionally free offerings. You need to consult with them first before going to these locations.
| County | Location |
| Cherokee | Very many huge Lead-Zinc mines with towering dumps for calcite, galena, and pyrite |
| Cherokee | All area coal mines at Columbus for calcite and pyrite |
| Cherokee | Many area mines and huge dumps at Galena for calcite and pyrite |
| Harper | Area mines at Anthony for halite |
| Kingman | Area mines at Kingman for halite |
| Reno | At the salt producing company mines at Arlington for halite |
| Rice | Area mines at Lyons for halite |
| Rice | Area mines at Sterling for halite |
How to find crystals in Kansas
Here are some additional recommendations for making the most of your time while you’re somewhere to further your quest. The list below highlights a few of the top locations to look for crystals:
Lake shores
Searching lake shores for crystals is a fantastic and rewarding pursuit, offering abundant opportunities to uncover geological treasures while enjoying the serenity and natural beauty of the lakeside environment. Lakeshores are often ideal locations for crystal hunting, as erosion and water movements constantly reveal new specimens that may have been hidden beneath the surface.
Crystals can be found among rocks, pebbles, and sand along the shoreline or even in shallow waters near the lake’s edge. Wave action and weathering processes help to release these hidden gems, making them accessible to eager collectors. The changing water levels and seasonal variations can also expose new mineral deposit areas, offering fresh discovery opportunities.
Mines and mine dumps
Mines and mine dumps are treasure troves for crystal hunters, offering a unique opportunity to uncover a wealth of geological marvels that are often rare and valuable. The mining and extraction process exposes mineral-rich veins and deposits, bringing fascinating crystals to the surface. Searching in these locations can yield an extraordinary variety of specimens, from dazzling gemstones to captivating mineral formations.
Crystals can often be found in the rock walls of mines, where mineral veins have been exposed during excavation. Additionally, mine dumps, where waste rock and tailings are discarded, can be a goldmine for collectors, as these piles may contain an abundance of overlooked crystals and minerals.
Streams and creeks
Looking for crystals in streams and creeks is a delightful and fruitful endeavor, offering crystal hunters the chance to unearth an array of geological treasures while immersing themselves in the beauty and serenity of these waterways. The constant movement of water in streams and creeks acts as a natural sorting mechanism, revealing crystals and minerals that have been weathered and eroded from their original locations.
Crystals can often be found among the gravel, sand, and rocks along the banks of these watercourses or even within the streambed itself. The water’s ebb and flow constantly shifts and uncovers new specimens, creating an ever-changing landscape ripe for exploration.
Kansas Crystal Mining Laws And Regulations
In Kansas, recreational crystal hunting typically falls under the jurisdiction of the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) and other local agencies, depending on the location. Always ensure you have permission to access the land where you plan to hunt for crystals. This may include private property, state parks, or other public lands. Some locations may require a permit, fee, or special permission from the landowner or managing agency.
Practice the Leave No Trace principles and be mindful of your environmental impact. Avoid disturbing plants, wildlife, and natural habitats, and leave the area as you found it. Some locations may have specific limits on the quantity or type of crystals and minerals you can collect. Adhere to these restrictions and only take what you’re allowed.
Before embarking on a crystal hunting adventure in Kansas, check with the KDWPT or other relevant agencies for the most up-to-date information on regulations, permits, and restrictions in the area you plan to visit.
The Best Crystal Shops In Kansas
Many of us enjoy adding little pieces to our collections by making minor purchases because the state offers many crystals. If you’re seeking rare and beautiful specimens, these are the greatest crystal shops we could discover:
- Abundance Crystals – 1908 W 13th St N, Wichita, KS 67203
- Crescent Springs – 7327 W 80th St, Overland Park, KS 66204
- The Crystal Cottage – 8 W 9th St, Lawrence, KS 66044
- Enchanting Earth – 805 N Kansas Ave, Topeka, KS 66608
- The Energy Within KC – 7807 W 151st St, Overland Park, KS 66223
- Gemini Shop – 5807 Merriam Dr, Merriam, KS 66203
- Joyeria Crystal – 920 S 7th St, Kansas City, KS 66105
- Mystic Myths – 929 S Rock Rd, Wichita, KS 67207
- Nature’s Art – 124 E Iron Ave, Salina, KS 67401
- New Age Center – 620 N Rock Rd #330, Derby, KS 67037
Additional places to find crystals in nearby states
If you’ve already tried all of our recommendations above or are planning a trip out of the state, you should check out our guides for neighboring states:
If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered please leave them in the comments below!
