Exploring the state’s rugged terrain offers a unique opportunity to discover petrified wood, a fossilized treasure from ancient forests. With the right tips, you’ll be ready to embark on your own adventure and uncover these fascinating remnants of prehistoric life.

Knowing where to look and what to expect will increase your chances of spotting these remarkable pieces scattered across this great state’s terrain!

Petrified wood you can find in the US

In the United States, several types of petrified wood can be found, each with unique characteristics based on the original tree species and the minerals involved in the fossilization process. Here are some of the types you’ll be able to find.

Araucarioxylon

Found in the Petrified Forest National Park in Arizona, this is one of the most famous types of petrified wood. It comes from an extinct species of conifer. As Arizona’s state fossil, Araucarioxylon holds a special place in the state’s natural history.

These trees once formed vast forests during the Late Triassic period, about 225 million years ago. The vibrant colors in this petrified wood come from minerals that replaced the original tree material over time.

Metasequoia

Often referred to as dawn redwood, this type of petrified wood can be found in various parts of the U.S., including the Pacific Northwest. Metasequoia was once thought to be extinct until living trees were later discovered in China.

Furthermore, its fine grain and reddish-brown color are characteristic features.

Palmoxylon

This petrified wood originates from palm trees and is often found in the Gulf Coast states like Texas and Louisiana. Recognized as the state stone of Texas, Palmoxylon is abundant and holds cultural significance.

The wood’s unique speckled or dotted pattern comes from the vascular bundles of the original palm tree. These fossils date back to the Cretaceous period, when the area was tropical and teeming with life.

Taxodium

Also known as bald cypress, this petrified wood can be found in the southeastern U.S., particularly in areas that were once swampy. Taxodium wood is often found in places that were ancient swamps, where these trees thrived millions of years ago.

The wood is durable and shows intricate grain patterns, with growth rings and knotholes that tell the story of its long history. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the wet environments that once dominated the Southeast.

Sequoioxylon

Petrified wood from ancient sequoia trees, found in places like California, where sequoia forests once thrived. These trees are the ancestors of the giant sequoias that still stand in California today.

The petrified wood is notable for its large, straight grain and reddish color, reflecting the immense size and age of the original trees.

Ginkgoxylon

Petrified wood from ancient ginkgo trees, which can sometimes be found in states like Oregon and Washington. Ginkgo is one of the oldest tree species on Earth, with fossils dating back over 200 million years.

Ginkgo petrified wood often has a light color and may show patterns similar to the fan-shaped leaves of the living ginkgo.

Dicotyledonous Wood

Found across various states, this type of petrified wood comes from broadleaf trees, making it more common and varied in appearance. You can spot dicotyledonous wood by the distinct vessels and growth rings that indicate seasonal changes.

This type of petrified wood is often found in regions that were once temperate forests, offering clues about the diverse plant life that existed millions of years ago.

Piceoxylon

Petrified wood from ancient spruce trees, commonly found in areas like Wyoming and Montana, where coniferous forests once thrived. Piceoxylon is known for its straight grain and pale color, often showing growth rings that tell the tree’s life story.

These trees were part of the ancient boreal forests that covered large parts of North America during cooler periods.

A Quick Request About Collecting

What Rough Petrified Wood Looks Like

Most of the photos you find of petrified wood are pieces that have been cut and polished. That is certainly useful but isn’t super helpful once you are out in the field. This is what you should look out for once you start hunting:

Exteriors like this

Every type of petrified wood has a different exterior and pattern but this is a good starting point on what to look for.

Texture and grain patterns

One of the most distinctive features to look for is the texture and grain patterns. Petrified wood often retains the original structure of the tree, including the grain, knots, and even growth rings. These patterns can appear similar to modern wood but are typically more rigid and fossilized.

Examine the surface for any linear patterns or striations that indicate the original wood grain. The texture may feel smoother or more polished in certain areas where mineralization has created a glassy effect.

Coloration and mineralization

The color of petrified wood can vary significantly due to the minerals that replaced the organic material during the fossilization process. Common colors include shades of brown, red, yellow, orange, and black.

Some pieces might even exhibit multiple colors in intricate patterns. These colors are often more vivid and diverse than those found in regular rocks. When inspecting potential petrified wood, look for these distinct and varied hues, which can indicate the presence of different minerals such as silica, iron, manganese, and others that contributed to the petrification process.

Bark and exterior features

Another telltale sign of petrified wood is the presence of bark impressions or external textures that resemble tree bark. These features are often well-preserved and can include the rough, fibrous texture of bark, knots, or other surface irregularities typical of natural wood.

The exterior of rough petrified wood may also have a weathered appearance, with cracks and fractures that occurred as the wood fossilized over millions of years. Look closely for these natural wood features, as they can be a strong indicator that you have found a piece of petrified wood.

Weight and density

Petrified wood is typically much heavier and denser than regular wood due to the mineralization process. When rockhounding, pick up the specimen to feel its weight. Even small pieces of petrified wood will feel significantly heavier than an equivalent-sized piece of non-fossilized wood.

This increased density is due to the replacement of organic material with minerals, making petrified wood feel more like a rock than wood. Comparing the weight and density of your find with known samples of petrified wood can help confirm its authenticity.

General Areas To Try First

Before we get into the specific places you should be looking we wanted to give you some more general advice. Once you get to your hunting area you should head straight for these areas if you want to have the best results:

Lakeshores

Lakeshores are like natural garbage cans because all things wash up and get left there over time. That includes wood that has turned to stone. As the water rises and falls, it carries sediment and rocks. It also takes the fossilized remains of trees from long ago.

Most lakeshores have a variety of rocks and minerals, which makes them an excellent place for petrified wood to grow and thrive. You’ll find a nice mix of sedimentary and volcanic rocks, the best sites for preserving wood fossils.

Roadcuts

When building roads, parts of the ground are often cut away to make a smooth path. The magic happens when the road cuts through layers of rock and soil. Petrified wood is often buried deep underground, and roadcuts let us see these underground wonders.

As workers blast through the rock layers, they accidentally find petrified wood that has been there for hundreds of years. Petrified wood is easy for collectors to spot because the exposed rock layers of roadcuts make it easy to see its unique patterns and colors.

Streams and creeks

Streams and creeks can move loose sediment away, which can reveal old wood that has turned to stone. As the water moves around, it exposes small pieces or even more significant amounts of petrified wood that have settled on the streambed.

Streams and creeks are more accessible for collectors because they are not as big. You can easily walk along their banks, jump from rock to rock, and look for petrified wood at the water’s edge.

River beds

Riverbeds are excellent for finding petrified wood due to their unique geological and environmental conditions. Rapid burial by sediments like sand, silt, and mud protects fallen trees from decay, initiating the fossilization process.

Mineral-rich waters flowing through rivers facilitate the replacement of organic material with minerals such as silica, turning wood into stone. Over time, erosion exposes these buried treasures, making them accessible for discovery.

This dynamic environment, with constant sediment deposition and mineral infiltration, creates ideal conditions for the formation and eventual exposure of petrified wood.

The tools every petrified wood hunter will need

When you're out looking for petrified wood having the right tools for the job is really going to make or break your success. 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 petrified wood 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 petrified wood-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.

The Best Places To Find Petrified Wood In Arkansas

If you go rockhounding in Arkansas, you’ll find a wealth of geological treasures. Petrified wood isn’t very common, but you can look in our recommended spots to increase your chances of finding a few pieces.

Here are our top recommendations:

Crater of Diamonds State Park

Crater of Diamonds State Park in Arkansas is a one-of-a-kind place where you can actually dig for real diamonds and other gems! It’s located near the town of Murfreesboro and is spread across more than 37 acres.

The park is situated on a volcanic crater, and that’s where it gets its name.

The geography and terrain of the park are quite varied. You’ll find a mix of grassy fields, forests, and the park’s centerpiece, the East Fork of the Little Missouri River.

But what’s truly special is the park’s diamond-bearing soil. This soil is the result of an ancient volcanic eruption that happened over 100 million years ago!

In terms of geology, the park is rich in minerals like diamonds, amethyst, garnet, and jasper. You don’t need special tools to hunt for these treasures. Many visitors find gems just by looking on the surface or sifting through the gravel.

Getting to the park is easy! It’s accessible by car, and there are clear signs guiding you. Once you’re there, you can rent equipment, or just use your own hands to dig and explore. The park even lets you keep whatever you find.

Before you go anywhere, make sure that you’re familiar with the rockhounding rules of the place you want to explore.

If you’re on public land, check the rules and regulations set out by the Bureau of Land Management Southeastern States District Office.

Where we found petrified wood at the Crater of Diamonds State Park

Within the park, petrified wood is sometimes discovered in igneous rocks, which are rocks formed from cooled lava or magma.

These igneous rocks protected and preserved the wood over millions of years, turning it into the beautiful fossils we see today.

So, while you’re sifting through the soil and gravel hunting for diamonds, keep an eye out for these special pieces of ancient wood turned to stone.

Copperas Creek

Copperas Creek, located near the town of Wynne in Arkansas, is an exciting place for nature lovers and rockhounds alike.

Surrounded by the lush beauty of the Arkansas landscape, Copperas Creek offers a delightful mix of clear flowing water, wooded areas, and unique geology.

The geography of Copperas Creek consists of gentle hills, dense forests, and the creek itself, winding its way through the area. The terrain is suitable for hiking, picnicking, and, of course, rockhounding!

In terms of geology, Copperas Creek is rich in various minerals and rocks, including some fossilized treasures. You can often find colorful and textured stones along the creek bed. It’s an amazing place to explore and learn about the earth’s history.

Getting to Wynne is pretty straightforward. You can reach it by car, and there’s ample parking available nearby. Trails leading to the creek are well-marked, so even if you’re new to the area, you’ll find your way easily.

Whether you’re there to explore the natural beauty, dig for rocks, or just enjoy a peaceful day by the water, Copperas Creek offers something special.

Its scenic surroundings and geological treasures make it a must-visit destination for everyone who loves the outdoors!

Where we found petrified wood along Copperas Creek

Starting from US Route 64, take a turn onto Route 64B. Once there, you’ll notice a handful of roads or footpaths that lead from the road to the banks of the creek. Choose one of the paths and head on down. 

Walcott

The Walcott area in Greene County, Arkansas, is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts and rock lovers!

Nestled in the northeastern part of the state, Walcott boasts a picturesque setting with rolling hills, dense green forests, and meandering waterways.

Geographically, Walcott is a mix of flatlands and gentle slopes, making it a delightful spot for both relaxed strolls and exciting explorations.

Geologically speaking, Walcott’s soil and rocks hint at the area’s ancient past. Many rockhounds visit the area to uncover fascinating minerals and fossils that lie beneath the surface, waiting to tell their age-old stories.

Getting to Walcott is a breeze. It’s well-connected by road, making it an accessible destination for day-trippers and weekend adventurers alike. Once you’re in the area, clear signs and well-maintained roads guide you to its various attractions.

All in all, Walcott is more than just a spot on the map. It’s a place where the beauty of nature meets the mysteries of the Earth’s past. So, pack your bags and head to this beautiful corner of Arkansas for a memorable outing!

Where we found petrified wood in Walcott

Walcott is a great spot to find Arkansas petrified wood! If you’re eager to uncover these ancient treasures, head southwest to Poplar Creek. From there, you can start your collection adventure.

Walk upstream along both sides of the creek, and you’ll likely spot pieces of wood that have turned to stone over millions of years. Continue your journey, and you’ll reach Crowley’s Ridge State Park. 

Don’t stop there! Follow the creek through the park all the way to its headwaters. As you explore, keep your eyes open for those special pieces of petrified wood.

Crow Creek

Crow Creek in Madison, Arkansas, is a dream location for nature lovers and rock enthusiasts! Situated in the northwestern part of the state, Crow Creek is a sparkling stream that meanders through a scenic landscape.

Geographically, Crow Creek carves its way through lush valleys surrounded by hills. The area offers a mix of dense forests, open meadows, and the glistening water of the creek itself. 

The terrain around the creek is diverse. There are places where the land is flat and gentle, perfect for a relaxed walk, while other spots have slopes and ridges, giving a bit more of a challenge for the adventurous.

In terms of geology, Crow Creek’s surroundings are rich with fascinating rocks and minerals. Over the years, water has shaped the land and exposed layers that offer glimpses into the Earth’s ancient past.

Reaching Madison is simple. The area is well-connected by roads. Clear signs and directions make it easy even for first-time visitors.

Where we found petrified wood along Crow Creek

Crow Creek is an exciting spot for those hunting for petrified wood! If you wander along the banks and dig a bit in the creek bed, you might just spot pieces of ancient trees turned to stone.

This creek has shared many fossils with lucky explorers over time, making it a favorite for rockhounds.

Colt

Colt, Arkansas, is a hidden gem waiting for explorers and rock lovers to discover! Located in the eastern part of the state, Colt offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and fascinating geology.

Geographically, Colt sits amid a landscape of flatlands, sprinkled with the occasional hill and surrounded by lush greenery. This mix of fields and forests paints a picture of serene countryside beauty.

The terrain is mostly gentle, with open spaces that are easy to walk on. Here and there, you’ll find patches of woodlands that beckon you to explore deeper.

From a geology standpoint, Colt has a rich and diverse underground. The soil and rocks in the area tell tales of the land’s history, filled with unique minerals and the occasional fossil waiting to be found.

Reaching Colt is a breeze. Well-maintained roads connect the area to other parts of Arkansas, and clear signposts guide newcomers. Whether you’re driving or biking, the journey to Colt is as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Where we found petrified wood in Colt

One of the best strategies is to follow the gravel road in Cold. These paths often lead to gravel pits. Dive into these pits and start your search.

Common Questions About Finding Petrified Wood In Arkansas

Here are the answers to a couple of commonly asked questions about petrified wood in the state:

How old is petrified wood in Arkansas?

Petrified wood is like a time capsule from ancient Earth, and in Arkansas, it’s especially exciting! The age of petrified wood in Arkansas can vary, but most of it dates back to around 66 million years ago, around the end of the Cretaceous period.

Imagine, during the Cretaceous, dinosaurs roamed the land, and our planet looked quite different. The trees that lived during this time eventually fell and got buried by mud, ash, or other materials.

Over millions of years, minerals replaced the organic materials in these trees, turning them into stone. This stone is what we now call petrified wood!

Can you find petrified palm wood in Arkansas?

Petrified palm wood is an awesome find for any rock collector! But when it comes to Arkansas, it’s a bit tricky. The simple answer is no, you typically don’t find petrified palm wood in Arkansas. Here’s a bit more on that.

Palm trees, as we know them today, love warm, tropical climates. Back in the day, Arkansas did have some lush ancient forests, but they weren’t filled with palms.

Instead, this state was home to other types of trees which, over time, became the petrified wood we find there today.

If you’re eager to find petrified palm wood, you might have better luck looking in states like Texas or Louisiana. Those places have the right conditions where ancient palms once grew and later turned into petrified treasures.

The Best Places To Buy Petrified Wood In Arkansas

If you don’t want to roam and dig around for petrified wood, that’s also okay! You can still get your hands on a piece of Earth’s history by purchasing petrified wood from these local shops:

• Coleman Rock Shop & Crystal Mines – 5837 AR-7, Jessieville, AR 71949
• Coleman’s Rocks-R-Gems – 1400 E Grand Ave, Hot Springs, AR 71901
• Fiddler’s Ridge Rock Shop – 3752 Hwy 270 E, Mt Ida, AR 71957
• Gem Adventures Jewelers & Rock Shop – 107 W Emma Ave, Springdale, AR 72764
• Crystal Springs Mining & Jewelry Co., Inc. – 8649 Albert Pike Rd, Royal, AR 71968