Petrified wood is one of nature’s most intriguing treasures. It’s like a window to the ancient world, revealing secrets from millions of years ago.

Now, if you want to find petrified wood in Arkansas, things can get even more exciting. Why? Because it’s rare! Finding a piece in this state is like stumbling upon a hidden gem, making it all the more special for collectors and enthusiasts.

In Arkansas, other geological wonders often steal the show, but for those with a keen eye and a bit of patience, the chance to uncover a piece of petrified wood awaits.

As we delve deeper into this topic, you’ll learn about the best spots to search and some tips to make your rockhounding adventure a success.

What Is Arkansas Petrified Wood

Petrified wood is a fascinating type of fossil that starts as a regular piece of wood. Over millions of years, the wood gets buried under layers of mud, dirt, and other materials. Slowly, the wood’s organic parts are replaced by minerals.

These minerals fill in the spaces and harden, turning the wood into rock. What’s really cool is that the petrified wood keeps its original shape, and sometimes you can even see tree rings in it!

You can often find petrified wood in areas that were once flooded or covered in volcanic ash. These places have the right conditions for this slow transformation.

But it can also be found in other parts of the world, anywhere where the conditions were just right for this amazing transformation to happen.

The types of petrified wood found in Arkansas

Knowing how to find petrified wood can make your explorations even more exciting. Before you go rockhounding, make sure to refresh your memory of what petrified wood is.

This way, you can recognize these ancient treasures when you come across them.

Silicified wood

Silicified wood is an awesome type of fossilized wood. Here’s how it works: over a long time, the original wood gets buried and soaked in water filled with tiny bits of silica.

As the wood starts to decay, the silica-rich water begins to fill in the spaces left behind.

Gradually, this silica turns into quartz, a hard mineral. The cool part? This quartz takes on the shape and details of the original wood. So, even though it’s now made of stone, it still looks a lot like wood!

Silicified wood can have different colors, patterns, and textures, all based on the minerals present during the transformation. It’s a beautiful testament to nature’s power to change and preserve things over time. 

When rockhounds find a piece of silicified wood, they’re holding a piece of ancient history, a mix of both plant and mineral, in their hands.

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 STATE

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.

General Areas You Should Try

If you’re curious about where to find petrified wood, you’re in for a treat! Arkansas doesn’t have a lot of places that have petrified wood, but maybe you can make a few discoveries on your own!

We recommend starting with the following places if you want a better chance of finding some petrified wood.

Rivers and riverbeds

Rivers are always moving and changing. They flow over rocks and soil, and their powerful waters can wash away layers of earth, revealing hidden gems like petrified wood.

Sometimes, these ancient pieces of wood get caught in the river’s flow and are carried downstream, only to settle in the riverbed.

Also, the soil and rocks in riverbeds often come from different places. As rivers twist and turn through various landscapes, they pick up all sorts of materials.

Among these materials might be petrified wood, hidden for ages and now exposed for collectors to find.

Rivers are natural sorting machines. They can separate heavier items like rocks and fossils from lighter soil and sand.

So, if you’re searching in a riverbed, the petrified wood might be right there with other heavier objects, making your search a bit easier.

Streams and creeks

Streams and creeks are like nature’s secret treasure chests, especially if you’re on the hunt for Arkansas petrified wood!  They wiggle and flow, moving tiny pebbles, sand, and sometimes, pieces of ancient wood that turned to stone.

This motion can reveal hidden pieces of petrified wood that have been buried for ages.

Think about where streams and creeks come from. They often start in hills or mountains, flow through forests, and cross various landscapes.

As they travel, they pick up and carry along all kinds of neat stuff, including petrified wood from places you might not even think of.

Another cool thing is that streams and creeks sort their treasures. Heavier items, like petrified wood, tend to settle at the bottom or get caught in little nooks and crannies.

That means if you’re exploring, you might find petrified wood grouped with other cool finds.

Lastly, these waterways are often easy to access and explore. So, grab a bucket, put on some sturdy shoes, and head to the nearest stream or creek. You never know what ancient stories are waiting to be discovered beneath the water’s surface!

Gravel pits

Gravel pits are like giant treasure troves for those seeking petrified wood! Here’s the scoop on why they’re so awesome for collectors.

Gravel pits often have a mix of rocks and minerals from different areas. When the earth is dug up to create these pits, all sorts of hidden goodies, including petrified wood, get unearthed.

Over time, petrified wood can get mixed in with other stones and end up in these pits. So, while the pit might be dug for gravel, these ancient tree pieces sneak in, waiting to be discovered by keen-eyed collectors.

Gravel, by nature, is a collection of various sizes of rocks and minerals. Petrified wood, being dense and sturdy, tends to settle alongside other similar-sized items in these pits.

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