North Dakota may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of geodes, but let me tell you, there are some great options for any geode hunter out there! You can find some stunning geodes in this state with the right guidance and knowledge. But make no mistake, finding geodes in North Dakota can be tough. You may have to search far and wide, dig deep, and work hard to uncover these natural treasures.
But trust me, it’s all worth it when you open a geode and see the stunning colors and crystals inside. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, geodes are a fascinating and rewarding find. So don’t give up on your geode-hunting dreams – with a little determination and expert advise, you can unearth some real gems in North Dakota.
What Are Geodes Anyway?
Geodes are fascinating geological formations that look like ordinary rocks on the outside but contain stunning crystal formations inside (sometimes called “chambers”). Geodes form when mineral-rich water seeps into hollow cavities in rocks and gradually deposits layers of minerals over time, resulting in the unique crystal formations we see inside.
We’ve prepared a guide on how to recognize a geode to help you identify it when you come across one.
Geodes come in various shapes and sizes, from small, spherical formations to larger, irregularly-shaped ones. Geodes are popular among collectors and rock enthusiasts, who enjoy cracking them open to reveal their hidden treasures. Once cracked open, the crystal inside it greatly influences a geode’s value and appeal. Overall, geodes are a fascinating natural wonder that reminds us of the beauty and complexity of our planet’s geological processes.
- 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 North Dakota
You’ve undoubtedly had a lot of difficulties locating geodes that naturally occur in North Dakota. This results from North Dakota being a state with fewer geodes than other states. There are no known places where you would have a high chance of finding one due to how uncommon they are.
On the other hand, we can advise you on the best places to look for geode-like rock and gem formations in the state.
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
McHenry County
McHenry County, located in north-central North Dakota, is a rural area known for its rolling hills, fertile farmland, and unique geology. The county sits on the edge of the Missouri Plateau, which means it has a diverse range of geologic formations. You’ll find everything from rugged badlands and grassy prairies to winding rivers and sparkling lakes.
The terrain in McHenry County is characterized by its gently rolling hills, which were formed by the movement of glaciers during the Ice Age. The county is also home to several notable bodies of water, including Lake Darling and the Souris River.
Where we found geode-like formations
- In the Denbigh area, you can locate quartz gemstones in the regional gravels of the Mouse River, southwest to Velva.
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
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.
Pembina County
Pembina County, located in the northeastern corner of North Dakota, is a unique area known for its diverse geology and stunning natural beauty. The county sits on the edge of the ancient Pembina Mountains, formed over 500 million years ago and contains some of the oldest rocks in North America.
The terrain in Pembina County is varied, with everything from lush river valleys to rugged, rocky outcroppings. The Pembina Gorge, located in the western part of the county, is a particularly beautiful area with cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and winding rivers. The county is also home to several notable bodies of water, including Lake Renwick and the Tongue River.
Where we found geode-like formations
- Quartz crystals are found in the deltas of the Pembina, Elk, and Sheyenne rivers.
Sheyenne River
The Sheyenne River, located in central North Dakota, is a winding waterway famous for its beautiful scenery and rich geological history. The river flows through a diverse landscape of grassy plains, wooded forests, and rugged badlands, offering a range of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
The geology of the Sheyenne River is particularly interesting, as it’s home to several unique rock formations and fossil sites. The area is known for its rich deposits of dinosaur fossils and has also yielded several important geological discoveries over the years.
Where we found geode-like formations
- You can locate some quartz gemstones along the Sheyenne River’s gravel bars.
Ward County
Ward County, located in north-central North Dakota, is a diverse area known for its rolling hills, expansive prairies, and unique geological formations. The county is situated on the edge of the Missouri Plateau, which means it has a rich variety of geologic features.
The terrain in Ward County is characterized by its gently rolling hills, formed by glaciers’ movement during the Ice Age. The area is also home to several notable bodies of water, including Lake Darling and the Souris River. These waterways offer a range of recreational activities.
Where we found geode-like formations
- Quartz gemstones are abundant in numerous area gravel pits of Minot.
Travel to Whitewood Creek
Travel to the south in South Dakota, a nearby state with more locations for naturally occurring geodes. One of the great places to visit to find geodes is Whitewood Creek.
Whitewood Creek is a picturesque western South Dakota waterway known for its clear, sparkling waters and stunning natural beauty. The creek flows through a diverse landscape of rocky canyons, grassy meadows, and wooded forests, offering a range of outdoor activities and recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.
The geology of Whitewood Creek is particularly interesting, as it’s home to several unique rock formations and geological features. The area is known for its rich deposits of gold and other precious minerals and has a rich mining history that dates back to the early days of the Wild West.
Where we found geodes at Whitewood Creek
- You can successfully look for geodes on the banks of Whitewood Creek, where these rocks are abundant.
Common North Dakota Geode-Hunting Questions
We wanted to make sure to address the following concerns about geode hunting:
Where can you find amethyst geodes in North Dakota?
Unfortunately, amethyst geodes and crystals don’t naturally exist in North Dakota, but there are several nearby rock shops where you may find them and other gems. The list of these shops is shown below.
Is it illegal to collect geodes in North Dakota?
In North Dakota, collecting and purchasing geodes is totally lawful as long as you abide by the applicable laws and ordinances. Check for any unique laws governing public and private areas and ensure you adhere to them.
The Best Places To Buy Geodes In North Dakota
Visiting local shops that sell geodes in North Dakota is the most reliable approach to bringing one home. Many shops feature other natural wonders, including gems and rocks.
- Crystal Rock Healing Products – 4950 13th Ave S #19, Fargo, ND 58103, United States
- Amazon – Various geodes are available to purchase on Amazon. Besides this, complete kits are available for people who want to crack it themselves.
- Treasures of Sea and Earth – 609 Memorial Hwy, Bismarck, ND 58504, 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:
If you have any recommendations for our list, please leave a comment below!
