If you don’t know where to search, finding geodes in Colorado can be a real pain in the neck. You’ll need more than just a chance to find these tiny treasures of beauty because they are frequently buried deep within the rock formations.
However, you’re in for a real treat if you have the right guidance.
Geodes are a geological wonder, coming in all shapes and sizes, from small marbles to huge boulders. The inside of a geode can be filled with beautiful crystals that sparkle like diamonds, or it could be a hollow cavern filled with sparkling druzy quartz. It’s no wonder that so many people are hooked on the thrill of the hunt!
But fear not, fellow geode hunters, we’ve got your back. There are a plethora of options out there to make your geode hunting experience a success. From guided tours that take you straight to the hotspots, to local rock shops that sell geodes and offer tips on where to find them, you’ll be sure to strike gold.
So, if you’re ready for an adventure and want to experience the beauty of these natural wonders, get out there and start hunting!
What Are Colorado Geodes Anyway?
Colorado geodes are a geologist’s dream come true. These little rocks are essentially hollow balls made of chalcedony, quartz, and other minerals that have formed over millions of years.
They are often found in clusters and can range from the size of a golf ball to a giant beach ball. But what makes these rocks so special is what’s inside.
When you crack open a geode, you’ll find a hidden world of crystals, sometimes in various colors, that sparkle and shine like nothing else.
We’ve also developed a guide on how to identify an unopened geode to help you with your search.
Geodes can be found in different locations throughout Colorado, but it takes some serious effort to find the good ones. Due to the state’s remarkable geology, geodes are easily formed.
Luckily, plenty of resources are available for those willing to put in the time and effort. So, whether you’re a seasoned hunter and collector or just looking for a fun adventure, go out and explore the natural beauty of Colorado’s geodes. Who knows what treasures you’ll find!
The Types Of Geodes Found In Colorado
Geodes are a little shy and won’t just materialize in your backyard. Don’t worry, though! Considering that these can be found anywhere on earth. How much a geode is worth, and its beauty is based on the kind of crystal it contains. The following geodes are located in Tennessee:
- Agate geodes
- Amethyst geodes
- Barite geodes
- Calcite geodes
- Celestite geodes
- Chalcedony geodes
- Goethite geodes
- Jasper geodes
- Quartz geodes
- 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 geode 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 Places To Find Geodes in Colorado
Here are some of our favorite geode hunting locations in the state to start. We can only find what we’re looking for in a few extraordinary gem mining places in Colorado. Even though some of these areas may not be widely known, they typically provide excellent options when we’re looking.
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.
Fremont County
Fremont County is known for its unique terrain and geography, which offers a wide range of rock formations and geologic wonders. With the Rocky Mountains to the west and the Great Plains to the east, the county is prime for some serious natural beauty. The county is home to several national forests, which make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Geologically speaking, Fremont County has a diverse range of rock formations, including sandstone, limestone, and granite. The county is also home to the Royal Gorge, a deep and narrow canyon carved by the Arkansas River.
The county is a great spot for anyone interested in geology and the natural world. So if you’re looking for a good spot to find geodes, check out Fremont County and all it has to offer!
Before bringing anything home, make sure you’ve read the State of Colorado’s most recent collecting regulations.
Where we found geodes in Fremont County
Despite the fact that geodes can be found all throughout the county, we’ve discovered the following locations to be excellent:
- Canon City, 6.5 miles north, Felch Creek upstream and downstream
- Canon City, 9.8 miles to Felch Creek, in the area’s badlands
- 7 miles north, on the hills west of Oil Creek, south of Garden Park
- Garden Park, a quarry in Canon City
The tools every geode hunter will need
When you're out looking for geodes 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 geode hunters which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding tools and kit 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 geode-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
Southwest Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Southwestern 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.
Houselog Creek
Houselog Creek is a hidden gem in the heart of Colorado. This beautiful creek is located in the Rocky Mountains and is a favorite destination for hikers, anglers, and nature lovers.
The creek runs through a beautiful valley, with steep cliffs and rolling hills on either side. It’s the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy some leisure time.
Geologically speaking, Houselog Creek is a fascinating place. The creek has cut through sedimentary rock layers, creating beautiful rock formations and unique geological features.
The terrain is rugged and steep, with boulders and fallen trees creating challenging obstacles for hikers and hunters. But despite the challenges, Houselog Creek is a beautiful spot to explore, with its crystal-clear water and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Where we found geodes in Houselog Creek
The creek is known for its rugged terrain, beautiful rock formations, and geological wonders. Geodes are typically found in the sedimentary rocks around the area.
Mesa County
Mesa County in Colorado is a geologic and outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. This county, located on the western slope of the state, is known for its unique terrain and geography, which offer an extensive range of natural wonders.
The area also boasts several mountain ranges, including the Grand Mesa, which is the largest flat-topped mountain in the world.
Geologically speaking, the area is rich in natural resources and is known for its abundant coal, oil, and natural gas deposits. The county’s terrain is rugged and varied, with sandstone cliffs, canyons, and rolling hills that make for excellent hiking, rock climbing, and geode hunting.
Mesa County is an excellent place for anyone interested in geology and the great outdoors. With its unique rock formations, abundant natural resources, and stunning vistas, there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Where we found geodes in Mesa County
Almost everywhere in the county contains geodes. Nonetheless, there are a few locations you should see first:
- Area of Grand Junction at Book Cliffs
- Grand Junction is located in Whitewater, about 3.4 miles east of 1st Street.
Rio Grande County
Located in the southern part of the state, Rio Grande County is home to the stunning San Juan Mountains, which offer some of the most beautiful views and outdoor activities in the area.
With its rugged terrain, towering peaks, and winding rivers, the area is a perfect place for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the natural world.
The terrain is varied, with steep canyons, rolling hills, and winding rivers. The Rio Grande River, which runs through the county, is one of the longest rivers in the United States. Because of its stunning scenery, unique geology, and abundant outdoor activities, it’s a place that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
Where we found geodes in Rio Grande County
- Sands and gravel from the Rio Grande River
- Park near Baxterville beneath the Twin Mountains in the spacious area surrounding the parking lot.
Wolf Creek Pass
Wolf Creek Pass in Colorado is a breathtaking and unique mountain pass that’s located in the San Juan Mountains. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who come to take advantage of its rugged terrain, towering peaks, and stunning natural beauty.
Geologically speaking, Wolf Creek Pass is a fascinating place. The area is known for its unique rock formations and diverse geology, with ancient volcanoes, sedimentary rocks, and mineral deposits that can be seen throughout the region. The terrain is rugged and varied, with steep canyons, rolling hills, and winding rivers that make for excellent hunting and hiking.
Where we found geodes in Wolf Creek Pass
Geodes are usually found in the stream beds around Wolf Creek Pass.
Other Great Places To Dig For Colorado Geodes
We’ll list the other places we’ve found after mentioning our favorites in order to be more helpful to you. We’ll give recommendations for places we’ve found in each county before moving on to more broad areas.
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Fremont | Canon City, 6.5 miles north, Felch creek upstream and downstream |
| Fremont | Canon city, N 9.8 mi., to Felch Cr., area badlands |
| Fremont | 7 miles north, south side of Garden Park, on hills west of Oil Creek |
| Fremont | Garden Park, a quarry in Canon City |
| Mesa | Area of Grand Junction at Book Cliffs |
| Mesa | Grand Junction is located in Whitewater, about 3.4 miles east of 1st Street |
| Mineral | Wolf Creek Pass stream beds |
| Rio Grande | Sands and gravel from the Rio Grande River |
| Rio Grande | Park near Baxterville beneath the Twin Mountains in the spacious area surrounding the parking lot |
| Saguache | La Garita, 2 miles south down the mountainside to La Garita Creek; continue upstream for 3 to 4 miles into the hills; the entire area sloped |
| Saguache | Houselog Creek/td> |
| San Miguel | Area around Telluride, 4.5 miles northeast to the Tomboy Ruins, continue to the Parmagon Lakes, travel to the second lake and park, collect on the rise of the west lake. |
Additional areas you should try
Because Colorado is a popular geode hunting state, we want to help you in your search. Visit the following notable locations where geodes are frequently found:
Lake shores
Lake shores are excellent locations to find geodes for collectors. This is because geodes are formed in sedimentary rocks, which are often found near water sources like lakes and rivers. Over time, water erodes the rocks and exposes the geodes, which can then be collected by enthusiasts.
Lake shores are also great locations to find geodes because they offer a wide range of natural features that can make the hunt more exciting. Whether you’re searching on a sandy beach or along rocky cliffs, there are plenty of opportunities to find these unique geological wonders.
Plus, the natural beauty of lake shores makes for an excellent backdrop to your search.
Quarries
Quarries are typically located in areas with a lot of exposed rock and are often dug deep into the earth, which makes them an ideal spot for finding geodes. The rocks in quarries are often very old and have been subjected to a lot of pressure and heat over time, which is what causes the unique crystal formations inside geodes.
When searching for geodes in quarries, it’s important to look for rocks with a unique shape or texture, as well as any areas where there is a concentration of crystals or other minerals. You may need to do some digging or use a hammer and chisel to crack open the geodes, but the effort is well worth it when you discover the stunning crystals inside.
Road cuts
This is because road cuts offer a unique opportunity to see and collect rocks that have been exposed by the construction of roads or highways. When road crews cut into a hillside to make way for a road, they often expose layers of sedimentary rocks that may contain geodes.
Road cuts are also great locations to find geodes because they are often located near highways or other major roads, which makes them easily accessible to collectors. Plus, because they are often located in developed areas, they may be easier to find than other locations.
Streams and creeks
Streams and creeks are excellent locations to find geodes for collectors. This is because the flowing water erodes the rocks and exposes the geodes, which can then be collected by enthusiasts. Streams and creeks are often found in areas with a lot of exposed sedimentary rocks, which is the type of rock where geodes are typically found.
Streams and creeks offer a wide range of natural features that can make the hunt more exciting. Whether you’re searching on a sandy creek bed or along rocky cliffs, there are plenty of opportunities to find these unique geological wonders. Plus, the natural beauty of streams and creeks makes for an excellent backdrop to your search.
Common Geode-Hunting Questions
The following list of frequently asked questions about geodes from Colorado must be addressed:
Where can you find amethyst geodes in Colorado?
Amethyst geodes can be found in several locations throughout Colorado, but the most well-known and productive areas are typically in the western part of the state.
One of the most popular places to find amethyst geodes in Colorado is the Mount Antero area near Buena Vista, which is famous for its abundance of high-quality amethyst crystals. The Crystal Hill mine near La Garita is also known for producing amethyst geodes.
You can also find amethyst geodes in Mineral county and Rio Grande county.
Is it illegal to collect geodes in Colorado?
As long as you follow local regulations, collecting geodes is legal in Colorado. If you’re in a public area, ensure you follow any local laws that may be in force. When on private land, make sure you have permission to collect as well.
The Best Places To Buy Geodes In Colorado
Not everyone enjoys spending hours searching for geodes outside. Sometimes it’s only bought for display in the office or something to add to your collection.
Here are a couple more locations where you may get stunning geodes from our favorite nearby rock shops.
- Geofossiles Rock Shop – 5631 N Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918, United States
- Amazon – We found that geodes are available on Amazon in a wide variety. For those who would prefer to do it themselves, there are also complete kits with geodes that can be cracked open.
- Leonard Crystals – 6801 S Emporia St #106, Greenwood Village, CO 80112, United States
- Ore Cart Rock Shop – 119 W Elkhorn Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517, United States
- The Crystal Garden – 27925 CO-74, Evergreen, CO 80439, United States
- The Rock Doc – 17897 US Hwy 285, Nathrop, CO 81236, United States
Additional places to find geodes in nearby states
Check out our guides for nearby states if you’ve already tried all of our suggestions above or if you’re planning a trip outside of the state:
- Geodes in Arizona
- Geodes in Kansas
- Geodes in Nebraska
- Geodes in New Mexico
- Geodes in Oklahoma
- Geodes in Utah
- Geodes in Wyoming
If you have any recommendations for our list, please leave a comment below!
