With its amazing terrain and awesome geography, finding geodes in Indiana is a lot easier than in most places on earth. After scouring our state for the best spots, we’ve narrowed down the top locations for finding these beautiful and unique natural wonders.
From the rich waters of the Beanblossom Creek and Salt Creek to the lush features of the Brown, Lawrence, and Jackson counties, we’ve explored the different landscapes and geologies of our state to bring you a comprehensive guide to geode hunting here.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newbie just starting out, we’ll provide you with the information you need to find geodes in Indiana. So grab your hammer and chisel, and join us on a journey to discover the hidden gems of our state.
What Are Indiana Geodes?
Geodes are natural formations, formed by volcanic activity or sedimentary processes, that are typically spherical or oblong in shape and have a hollow cavity lined with crystals. They’re found all around the world and Indiana’s unique geology perfectly complements geodes’ formation process!
Inside the geode, crystals can grow in a variety of shapes and colors depending on the type of mineral present. Geodes are not only popular among collectors for their beautiful crystal formations; they are also significant in the field of geology. Indeed, geodes are a fascinating example of the natural beauty and complexity of our planet.
What does the outside of a geode really look like? We’ve put together a guide on this, too.
The Types Of Geodes Found In Indiana
Geodes vary depending on the minerals present in their crystal formation. In fact, a geode’s value is determined based on what kind it is. In Indiana, the following are the different types that you’ll find:
- Ankerite geodes
- Aragonite geodes
- Calcite geodes
- Celestite geodes
- Chalcedony geodes
- Crystal Geodes (Also called “Geodized fossils” because it’s shaped like a fossil brachiopod, plecyopod, crinoid head, or coral even though it does not contain any fossil material.)
- Dolomite geodes
- Fluorite geodes
- Geothite geodes
- Honessite geodes
- Kaolinite geodes
- Limonite geodes
- Marcasite geodes
- Millerite geodes
- Pyrite geodes
- Pyrrhotite geodes
- Quartz geodes
- Siderite geodes
- Sphalerite 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 Indiana
There are tons of great places to mine gems in Indiana, but they do not necessarily have geodes in them, too. The places we’ll share with you below are seldom known by gem hunters, but they are excellent locations if you want to find geodes in Indiana.
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.
Beanblossom Creek
Beanblossom Creek, which runs for about 17 miles, winds its way through some beautiful countryside. Its surroundings is mostly wooded, with some open fields here and there. There’s a lot of wildlife in the area, including deer, foxes, and different kinds of birds. Around the creek, the terrain is pretty flat, but there are some gentle hills in the distance.
The geology around the creek is mostly sandstone and shale. There are some really interesting rock formations to check out, too. The creek itself is pretty clear and shallow in some spots, and deeper in others. Which is why it’s a great spot to go geode hunting!
But before you plan your trip here, make sure to check the updated collecting guidelines of Indiana.
Where we found geodes at Beanblossom Creek
Geodes can be found pretty much on any part of the Beanblossom Creek, so when you go geode hunting here, make sure you explore all the areas of this location.
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
Northeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide
Earth Treasures: The Northeastern 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.
Brown County
Brown County is a really great place to visit and check out if you’re into geode hunting. Its geography is super diverse, with lots of rolling hills, dense forests, and winding rivers. The terrain can be pretty rugged in some spots, but there are also some nice flat areas.
The geology of Brown County is mostly sandstone and limestone, with some shale mixed in. The are has amazing cool rock formations, including caves and cliffs.
Going here is easy, especially if you’re driving. There are a few major highways that run through the area, so you can get there from pretty much anywhere in the state. There’s also a small airport nearby if you’re flying in. No matter how you plan to go here, it’ll be worth it!
Where we found geodes in Brown County
This county has tons of areas where you can find geodes, including in the road and road cuts throughout the county, stream beds, banks, cliffs, washes, pits, and quarries. Specifically, you can search for geodes in the following spots:
- Brown County State Park
- Beanblossom Creek
- Yellowwood Trail
- Blummets Creek
Lawrence County
Lawrence County is situated in the southern part of our state. Its terrain is pretty diverse, with everything from flat fields to rolling hills. It’s home to several rivers and streams, including the White River, which runs through the heart of the area.
This county mostly has limestone, with some sandstone and shale mixed in. There are some really cool caves and rock formations here, too.
Getting here is a breeze, especially if you’re driving because several major highways run through here. If you’re from outside our state, you can also fly in as there’s a small airport nearby. So if you’re looking for a great spot to explore and to go geode hunting in Indiana, Lawrence County is definitely worth checking out!
Where we found geodes in Lawrence County
Lawrence County doesn’t run out of areas to explore if you want to find amazing geodes. You can find them in all regional stream beds and banks, road and road cuts, pits, and excavations around the towns of Clearsprings, Erie, Guthrie, Heltonville, Pinhook, Tunnelton, and Zelma. You can also visit and look into the following spots:
- Bedford Creek
- State highway road cuts
- Salt Creek
Salt Creek
Truly a hidden gem, Salt Creek runs through several counties in the southern part of the state. The terrain around it is pretty diverse, with some areas being hilly and rocky, while others are flat and grassy.
The geology of the area is mostly limestone, with some sandstone and shale mixed in. Aside from geode hunting, if you’re also into hiking and exploring, there are some really cool rock formations and caves here.
Visiting here via car is easy as there are several access points along the creek, with some being more popular than others. And when you visit, make sure you have loads of energy to make the most of your trip!
Where we found geodes at Salt Creek
The gravels of Salt Creek extending to the Bedford area streams and their banks are the specific areas where you can find some of the most amazing geodes here, including Quartz geodes.
Jackson County
Jackson County is a real treat for nature lovers— and geode hunters! It’s located in the southern part of our state, and it’s got some seriously beautiful terrain. From rolling hills to winding rivers, this place has it all.
The geology of Jackson County is mostly limestone, with some sandstone and shale mixed in. This is why the place has some interesting formations and rock and mineral reserves that will truly amaze you.
You won’t have a hard time reaching this place if you’re driving. There are several major highways here, so you can get here from any part of Indiana. Just be sure to bring your hiking boots and your sense of adventure!
Where we found geodes in Jackson County
If you’re here, chances are you’re near a geode which is so cool! But if you want to be sure you’ll find one, we recommend exploring the following spots:
- White River
- Delaney Creek Road
Other Great Places To Dig For Indiana Geodes
Indiana is amazingly blessed with bountiful geodes, so the places we shared above are not the only spots where you can find geodes here. In fact, there are plenty more! To make your search for geodes easier, we listed these places by county below. For those where we put, “county wide”, we will provide more specific details in the succeeding sections.
Our recommendations by county
| County | Location |
| Brown | County wide |
| Brown | Along Beanblossom Creek |
| Brown | 100’ north of Entrance to Brown County State Park |
| Brown | Stream beds, particularly Bear Creek in Trevlac area |
| Brown | Along the Yellowwood Trail, west of Yellowwood State Forest in Nashville area |
| Brown | SR-45 to Blummets Creek, upstream and down along creek |
| Huntington | Erie Stone Company Quarry |
| Jackson | County wide |
| Jackson | In East Fork of the White River in Medora area |
| Jackson | Creekbed of Delaney Creek Road |
| Lawrence | County wide |
| Lawrence | Bedford Creek banks |
| Lawrence | Roadcut along State Highway |
| Lawrence | Area excavations, stream gravels, pits, road cuts, and banks of Guthrie |
| Lawrence | Area stream gravels and outcrops of Erie |
| Lawrence | Heltonville area and other area streams |
| Lawrence | Salt Creek gravels |
| Lawrence | In fields surrounding the Tunnelton area |
| Miami | Area stream banks, raod and road cuts, excavations of Erie |
| Monroe | In road cut of Bloomington on Rte. 37 |
| Washington | Minnie Holstine Farm |
| Washington | East of SR-56 to edge of town at the Jim Day Farm |
| Washington | 0.9 miles north on SR-135 to creek of Salem area |
Additional areas you should try
Some of our recommendations above say “county wide”, which may be too broad and too wide especially if you’re new to geode hunting, so we’ll narrow it down for you. Here are some of the specific places that you can explore to find geodes in Indiana:
Streams and Creeks
Streams and creeks are constantly moving, which means that geodes are constantly being shifted around. This makes them great places to find all sorts of interesting specimens. Additionally, the flowing water can help to wear away the outer layers of rocks, exposing new colors and textures underneath.
Another benefit of searching for geodes in streams and creeks is that the water can help to wash away dirt and debris, making it easier to see what you’re looking for. So be sure to check these waters out. You never know what geodes you might uncover!
Quarries
Quarries are man-made mines that are dug into the ground to extract minerals and rocks. These rocks are often exposed and readily available for the taking, which can make them easier to find than in other locations.
Furthermore, quarries often expose geodes that aren’t typically found on the surface. The deeper you dig, the more likely you are to find something truly unique and special.
Rivers and Riverbanks
As natural waterways that flow across the landscape, rivers can pick up and transport rocks and minerals from upstream locations, eventually depositing them in their riverbeds. One great thing about searching for geodes here is that the constant flow of the river can help to uncover specimens that may have been buried beneath the surface.
Another benefit of searching for geodes in riverbeds is that they are often located in picturesque and serene settings. It’s a great way to enjoy nature while indulging in rock collecting and geode hunting!
Road Cuts
Rocks and minerals, including geodes, are usually covered by grass, trees, farmland, buildings, parking lots, that make it very difficult to find out what is under the surface. In those areas, road cuts are a great way to see the reserves that are normally hidden.
Road cuts are among the best places you can search geodes in because they can reveal different layers of rock and minerals that are normally difficult to see.
Common Geode-Hunting Questions
We gathered and answered some of the most common frequently asked questions of people who search for geodes in Indiana. Here are the top two of them:
Where can you find amethyst geodes in Indiana?
While Indiana is rich in geode reserves, unfortunately, it doesn’t have amethyst geodes. But if you’re after this particular type, don’t worry because they’re readily available for purchase in the local shops. We made a list of the best ones below.
Is it illegal to collect geodes in Indiana?
Generally, collecting geodes in Indiana is legal for as long as you follow our local collecting laws. If you’re collecting from government land, check out any local regulations in place. Also, don’t start exploring any private land until you get permission from the owner.
The Best Places To Buy Geodes In Indiana
Trekking and searching for hours is not for everybody, and if you’re somebody who prefers to just get a beautiful geode to add to your collection, we compiled and listed down the best local shops in Indiana.
We made sure to include the links and addresses to these shops so you can easily visit them:
- Geodes and Gemstones – 300 Hwy 35 N, Knox, IN 46534
- Amazon – You’ll be surprised at the pretty good variety of geodes on Amazon. In fact, aside from geodes that are ready to be cracked open, they even have complete sets of kits to break them open!
- Love Rocks Lapidary – 16624 Winchester Rd, Ossian, IN 46777
- Earths Creations – 110 E Main St, Knightstown, IN 46148
- Earth Wear Rock Shop – 309 W Main St, Plainfield, IN 46168
- All My Relations – 7218 Rockville Rd, Indianapolis, IN 46214
- The Crystal Lady – 192 W Joliet St Suite B, Crown Point, IN 46307
- Merlin’s Treasure Trove – 825 S 5th St, Terre Haute, IN 47807
- Mystical Moon – 103 E Main St Suite B, Knightstown, IN 46148
- Metamora Gem MIne – 19055 Main St, Metamora, IN 47030
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:
If you have any recommendations for our list please leave a comment below!
