17 Of Our Favorite Places You Can Find and Dig For Geodes In Oklahoma In 2024

By Dr. Keith Jackson - Geology PhD

| Updated

17 Of Our Favorite Places You Can Find and Dig For Geodes In Oklahoma In 2024

By Dr. Keith Jackson - Geology PhD

Updated

If you’re looking to get your hands on some mighty fine geodes in Oklahoma you’ve come to the righ place. There are a whole lot of great options in the state that will give any geode hunter a chance to hit the jackpot.

From the Great Salt Plains State Park to the Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center, Oklahoma is full of opportunities for folks looking to find some real gems. You can find all kinds of geodes in the Sooner State with a little guidance and a good eye.

But let me tell you, finding geodes in Oklahoma ain’t always easy. It can be a real challenge if you don’t have the right guidance. You gotta know where to look and what to look for. Geodes are hidden all over the state, and they’re not just laying on the ground waiting for you to pick ’em up.

You gotta be willin’ to put in the work if you wanna find some truly incredible geodes. But let me tell you, it’s definitely worth it! There ain’t nothing quite like cracking open a geode and seeing an incredible beauty hidden inside. It’s like finding a treasure, and it’ll take your breath away.

What Are Oklahoma Geodes Anyway?

A vibrant blue azurite geode lined with green minerals cracked open w

Oklahoma geodes are some of the most sought-after in the country. These bad boys are small, round, and look just like rocks on the outside. But when you crack ’em open, they reveal a hidden world of stunning beauty. The insides are filled with minerals and crystals, and each geode is unique. Some might have a layer of different crystals, while others might be filled with sparkling minerals. It’s a real lucky dip, but that’s part of the fun!

We’ve also included a guide on identifying geodes to assist you to find what you’re looking for.

Geodes are formed in sedimentary and volcanic rocks, and they’re found all over Oklahoma. Because of Oklahoma’s unique geology, geodes form easily. You might find them in creek beds, quarries, or just lying around in fields. It takes patience, persistence, and a good eye. So if you’re lookin’ for a real adventure, grab a hammer and chisel and head on down to the Sooner State. You never know what kind of treasures you might find!

The Types Of Geodes Found In Oklahoma

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. A geode’s appearance and price of a geode are substantially influenced by the kind of crystal that inhabits it. The following geodes are located in Oklahoma:

  • Azurite geodes
  • Barite geodes
  • Calcite geodes
  • Chalcedony geodes
  • Quartz geodes
How We Found The Best Geode Locations in Oklahoma
When it comes to choosing the best options for finding Oklahom geodes there are plenty of things we consider. Many of the best locations are closely guarded secrets which can make it really difficult for more casual geode hunters to find success. 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 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 Oklahoma

A beautiful black geode with white crystals inside

These are a few of our top geode-hunting spots in the state to get you started. There are only a few spectacular gem mining locations in Oklahoma where we can find what we’re looking for. Even while some of these places might not be well-known, they frequently offer top choices 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.

Arkansas River

A pretty area at the Arkansas River with surrounding bed rocks and trees

The Arkansas River is one of the most important rivers in Oklahoma, flowing over 400 miles from Colorado through Kansas, and into our fine state. It’s a mighty river, and it plays a big role in the economy and culture of Oklahoma. The river is surrounded by a diverse range of landscapes, from rocky canyons and cliffs to lush forests and wetlands.

The geology of the Arkansas River is what makes it such an important resource. It’s a major source of water for irrigation, and it provides vital habitat for a wide range of plants and animals. The terrain along the river is characterized by deep canyons and cliffs, with dramatic drop-offs and steep inclines. There are also plenty of shallow areas where you can wade in and cool off on a hot summer day. The geography of the area is also pretty varied. You’ll find rolling hills and expansive plains, as well as dense forests and wetlands teeming with wildlife.

Be sure you’ve studied the most recent collection rules published by the State of Oklahoma before taking home your finds.

Where we found geodes in Arkansas River

While geodes are present throughout the area, we have found that these rocks can be found in the White Eagle neighborhood. Along the Arkansas River upstream and downstream on both sides.

Rock pick being used

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.

Comanche County

A peak at Comanche County with a scenic view of the area

Comanche County is a real gem in Oklahoma, located in the southwest part of the state. It’s home to the city of Lawton, which is a major hub for the area. The county is characterized by a mix of flat plains and rugged terrain, and it’s known for its striking natural beauty.

The geology of Comanche County is pretty diverse. You’ll find everything from sedimentary rock to volcanic formations, which have created a unique landscape that’s rich in resources. The terrain is also varied, with some areas characterized by rolling hills and others by deep canyons and cliffs. The area is known for its abundance of mesas and buttes, which are scattered throughout the county. More interestingly for us, it’s also a great spot to find Oklahoma crystals.

Where we found geodes in Comanche County

  • North of the Fort Sill Military Reservation, among the mines at Indiahoma area

Harper County

Grasslands at Harper County where you can search for geodes

Harper County is a real hidden gem in Oklahoma, located in the northwestern part of the state. The county is known for its wide-open spaces and stunning natural beauty. The terrain is pretty flat, with rolling hills and expansive plains, and the county is home to several creeks and rivers.

The geology of Harper County is pretty unique. It’s characterized by sandstone formations and red shale, which have been shaped by millions of years of erosion. You might even be lucky enough to find a plethora of geodes if you’re willing to do a bit of digging!

Where we found geodes in Harper County

Geodes are found almost everywhere throughout the county. However, there are a few places you must see first:

  • The nearest point to the twin buttes is on US-283, 7 miles north of Rosston area, 2 miles northwest on US-64, and 1 mile east on US-283.

Lake Thunderbird

Lake Thunderbird shore where you can locate geodes

Lake Thunderbird is one of the most popular recreational areas in Oklahoma, located in the central part of the state. The lake covers over 6,000 acres and is surrounded by beautiful rolling hills and forests. If you’re fortunate enough, you might discover a lot of geodes with various crystals hiding around the lake!

The geology of Lake Thunderbird is pretty diverse. It’s situated in an area of rolling hills and valleys, which were formed over millions of years through a combination of erosion and volcanic activity. The lake itself was created in the 1960s as a reservoir, and it’s been a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts ever since. The terrain around the lake is also characterized by lush forests and wetlands, which provide a habitat for a wide range of wildlife.

Where we found geodes in Lake Thunderbird

We have found small geodes in the surrounding area of Lake Thunderbird.

Pontotoc County

A secluded location at Pontotoc County with a creek and rock formations

Pontotoc County is a real hidden gem in Oklahoma, located in the southern part of the state. The county is known for its striking natural beauty, with rugged terrain, rolling hills, and expansive plains. The area is home to several creeks and rivers where you can find geodes, including the Canadian River and Blue River, which also provide habitat for a wide range of plants and animals.

The geology of Pontotoc County is pretty diverse, with a mix of sedimentary and volcanic rock formations. The terrain is characterized by deep canyons and cliffs, as well as shallow creeks and rivers.

Where we found geodes in Pontotoc County

  • In the gravel pits of the Fittstown area, 1 mile south on SR-99

Other Great Places To Dig For Oklahoma Geodes

An elegant white calcite geode sitting on a bed of leaves

To be more helpful, we’ll name our favorites first, then list the additional location we’ve discovered. Before moving on to larger area, we’ll recommend locations in each county that we’ve found.

Our recommendations by county

County Location
Cleveland Lake Thunderbird
Comanche North of the Fort Sill Military Reservation, among the mines at Indiahoma area
Harper Rosston area, the nearest point to the twin buttes
Kay White Eagle area, along the Arkansas River upstream and downstream on both sides
Pontotoc In the gravel pits of the Fittstown area, 1 mile south on SR-99
Pottowatomie Dry ponds and lake beds in the town of Tecumseh

Additional areas you should try

We wish to assist you in your search because Oklahoma is a state where geode hunting is very common. Visit the following well-known areas to look for geodes:

Lake beds

If you’re looking to find some geodes, lake beds are a great place to start your hunt. Lake beds are formed when water accumulates in a depression in the ground, and over time, sediment builds up on the bottom. This sediment can include a variety of minerals and other substances, which can combine to create geodes. One of the great things about lake beds is that they’re usually covered in sediment and other debris, which means that geodes are often hidden just beneath the surface. You might not even know that you’re walkin’ on top of a geode until you start digging!

Another advantage of looking for geodes in lake beds is that they’re often accessible and easy to get to. Many lakes and reservoirs have designated public areas where you can go and hunt for geodes, and you don’t need any special equipment or training to get started. Since lake beds are formed over a long period of time, the geodes you find can be quite large and well-formed.

Rivers and riverbanks

If you’re a fan of geode hunting, then rivers and riverbanks are some of the best places to look for these unique formations. Rivers are constantly moving and eroding the ground beneath them, which means that they can uncover geodes that have been buried for thousands of years. And when you’re searchin’ for geodes on a riverbank, you can look for them without havin’ to get your feet wet!

One of the great things about rivers and riverbanks is that they’re often located in remote and unspoiled areas, which means that the geodes you find are likely to be in excellent condition. Plus, since rivers can carry sediment and other materials from a wide area, you’re likely to find a wide range of geodes with different mineral and crystal formations. You can take your time and explore the area at your own pace, and you don’t need any special equipment or training to get started. All you need is a good eye and a bit of patience!

Streams and creeks

Streams and creeks are some of the best places to find geodes in nature. These bodies of water are constantly moving and carrying sediment and other materials, which can help uncover geodes that have been hidden for thousands of years. And since streams and creeks are often located in remote areas, the geodes you find are likely to be in excellent condition.

Another advantage of searchin’ for geodes in streams and creeks is that you’re likely to find a wide range of geodes with different mineral and crystal formations. The materials that are carried by the water can come from a variety of sources, which means that the geodes you find can be quite diverse.

Common Geode-Hunting Questions

A gorgeous chalcedony geode with light blue and purple hues

It’s necessary to respond to the following list of frequently asked questions about Oklahoma geodes:

Where can you find amethyst geodes in Oklahoma?

Amethyst geodes are available in many Oklahoma rock shops, despite the fact that they are not naturally found in the state. You can also look for vendors selling amethyst geodes at local rock shows.

Is it illegal to collect geodes in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma law permits geode collecting as long as you abide by local rules. Make sure to follow any applicable regulations if you’re in public locations. Be sure you also have the authorization to collect when on private property.

The Best Places To Buy Geodes In Oklahoma

Natures Treasures rock shop where you can buy and find different kinds of geodes

Spending hours outside looking for geodes is not for everyone. Sometimes geodes are merely purchased to add to your collection or to display at your workplace.

Here are a few more places where you can find gorgeous geodes from our top picks for local rock shops:

  • Andaluz Artisan Ltd. Co. – 1922 N Eastern Ave, Moore, OK 73160, United States
  • Amazon – We discovered a large selection of geodes on Amazon. Full kits with crackable geodes are available for individuals who want to do it themselves.
  • Good Earth Rocks – 824 N Broadway Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102, United States
  • Mine Shaft Rocks and Minerals – 1000 Rodeo Dr, Comanche, OK 73529, United States
  • Nature’s Treasures – 6223 SE 15th St, Midwest City, OK 73110, United States
  • Rock’n It Treasures – 106 N 5th St, Ponca City, OK 74601, 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!

About Dr. Keith Jackson - Geology PhD

Keith Jackson is an avid rockhound who is constantly exploring new sites to expand his collection. He has worked as a professional Geologist for over 20 years and holds a PhD in Geology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a Masters Degree in Geology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a Bachelors Degree in Geology from the University of Connecticut.

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