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 Mississippi

With forests, creeks, and hidden spots, Mississippi invites you on a thrilling treasure hunt. So, if you’re eager to find these rock-solid wonders, you’re in the right place! Let’s dive into the best spots to discover petrified wood in this beautiful state.

Mississippi Petrified Forest

The Mississippi Petrified Forest is an amazing place that’s like stepping back in time. Located near Flora, Mississippi, this forest is full of petrified wood that’s over 36 million years old!

It’s a wonder to see and a must-visit for anyone who loves rocks and history.

The terrain in the forest is hilly with paths that guide you through an area where ancient trees once stood tall. Now, those trees are turned to stone, scattered across the ground. You can see the tree rings, bark, and branches, all fossilized.

The forest sits on what used to be a prehistoric log jam, where trees were buried quickly and started the long process of turning to stone.

Geologically, the forest is rich in silica, which helped turn the wood into stone. You’ll find different types of petrified wood, each one a unique piece of history.

Getting to the Mississippi Petrified Forest is easy! It’s right off Highway 49, and there are clear signs to guide you. There’s even a museum and gift shop to learn more and take home a souvenir.

Before you go, however, make sure to check with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks to make sure that you know the current rules on rock collecting.

Learning the rules is an important part of learning how to find petrified wood!

Where we found petrified wood in the Mississippi Petrified Forest

The Mississippi Petrified Forest in Flora is a dream spot for finding petrified wood! As you walk the trails, you’ll see ancient trees turned to stone right before your eyes.

You’ll find chunks of this stone wood scattered all around, some lying on the ground and some half-buried. So, while you can’t take the petrified wood home, you can marvel at it, touch it, and imagine the world when these trees were alive and green!

Holly Springs National Forest

Holly Springs National Forest in Mississippi is a gem waiting to be explored! Located in the hilly region of northern Mississippi, this forest stretches over 155,000 acres.

The terrain is a mix of rolling hills and dense woods, making it perfect for hiking and getting lost in nature’s beauty.

Geologically speaking, Holly Springs sits atop sandy soil with layers of clay and loam. This soil makes it home to many unique plants. As you explore, you’ll find patches of wetlands, clear lakes, and bubbling streams.

There’s also a good chance of spotting some cool rocks and minerals tucked away!

Now, if you’re wondering how to get there, it’s a breeze! The forest is crisscrossed by several major roads like Highway 7 and Highway 78. Plus, there are clear signs pointing you to the entrances and different parts of the forest.

Once you’re inside, there are well-maintained roads and trails, making it easy to explore by car or on foot.

Visiting Holly Springs National Forest is like diving into a natural wonderland. With its unique geology and breathtaking landscapes, it’s a place that promises adventure and discovery around every corner.

Where we found petrified wood in Holly Spring National Forest

While the Holly Springs National Forest is mostly known for its lush greenery and wetlands, you can also find some spots with petrified wood.

As you hike through the forest, especially near stream beds and eroded areas, keep your eyes peeled for chunks of wood that have turned to stone over millions of years.

Copiah County

Copiah County in Mississippi is a spot that’s a treat for the eyes and a haven for rock enthusiasts! Located in the southern part of the state, Copiah County is surrounded by green landscapes and scenic views.

The terrain here is varied: you’ll find both flatlands and gentle hills, offering a mix of farmlands and forests. This county is filled with small towns and communities, each with its own charm.

Geologically, Copiah County is intriguing. It’s made up of layers of sedimentary rocks, which means there are cool rocks and minerals just waiting to be found. Some areas boast deposits of petrified wood and fossils.

Getting to Copiah County is a breeze. Major highways, like I-55, run through the county, making it easily accessible by car. Signs are clear, and the roads are well-maintained, so you’ll have no trouble navigating your way.

Where we found petrified wood at Copiah County

In the Carpenter area near Pierre Bayou, keep an eye out for chunks of this ancient stone wood. Also, if you wander along Copiah Creek in Georgetown, you might spot pieces by the water.

Just south of Georgetown, there’s another great spot along a creek where petrified treasures wait to be found.

And don’t forget the gravel pit in Wesson! It’s a known place where you can discover some excellent specimens.

Marion County

Situated in the south-central part of the state, Marion County’s geography includes a mix of rolling hills and lush valleys. The terrain here is varied, with dense forests and clear-flowing rivers like the Pearl River, adding to the charm.

The geology of Marion County is a treasure trove for rock enthusiasts! There are layers of sedimentary rock filled with fossils, hinting at the ancient sea that once covered the area.

Plus, you can find sandstone and limestone formations that tell the story of millions of years of Earth’s history.

With well-connected highways and roads like US-98, Marion County is accessible from various parts of Mississippi. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing spots, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the landscape.

Where we found petrified wood in Marion County

One prime location to discover Mississippi petrified wood is in the North Foxworth area. If you head to the Pearl River Gravel Washing Company, you just might get lucky.

Here, you can search in the gravel and stones and you might come across some petrified wood specimens.

Yazoo City

Yazoo City is part of the Mississippi Delta region, and the city itself is filled with a mix of rolling hills and flat plains. The land here has been shaped by the nearby Yazoo River, making it rich and fertile.

The geology of the area is fascinating too! You’ll find a mixture of soil types, including loam and clay. Over time, the river’s movements have deposited sediments that form different layers of rock and soil.

Getting to Yazoo City isn’t difficult at all. Major roads connect it with other parts of Mississippi, so driving there is an easy option. If you prefer public transportation, there are also bus services that can get you there.

Where we found petrified wood in Yazoo City

If you head west to SR-3, you’re likely to come across some petrified wood pieces. You can also go further east to US-49. Traveling south to SR-433 can lead you to some good spots for petrified wood as well.

Other Great Places To Find Mississippi Petrified Wood

There are many more areas in Mississippi where you can find petrified wood specimens. Check out the following spots:

Common Questions About Finding Petrified Wood In Mississippi

Learn some basic facts about petrified wood to help you in your quest to discover some amazing specimens.

How old is petrified wood in Mississippi?

Petrified wood in Mississippi is like a time machine, taking us way back into Earth’s history! The wood here has been around for a staggering 36 million years.

Back in those days, an ancient river flowed in Mississippi. There was a massive flood, and trees got knocked down and buried under layers of silt, dirt, and other materials.

As the years went by, this wet environment became perfect for turning these trees into stone.

Can you find petrified palm wood in Mississippi?

Absolutely, you can find petrified palm wood in Mississippi, and it’s like uncovering a little piece of history! Petrified palm wood is the state stone of both Texas and Louisiana, but Mississippi has its share too.

Millions of years ago, during the Oligocene epoch, the Gulf Coastal Plain of Mississippi was a wet, tropical region. Palm trees flourished, and when they died, they fell into the sediment.

Over time, this environment allowed the wood to become fossilized or “petrified.”

What makes petrified palm wood special is its unique pattern. It doesn’t look like your typical tree, because of the dot-like patterns that represent where the palm’s vascular bundles were.

The Best Places To Buy Petrified Wood In Mississippi

If rockhounding isn’t really your thing, but you’re still interested in geology and petrified wood, you can buy some amazing specimens at the following stores:

• Mississippi Petrified Forest Gift Shop – 124 Forest Park Rd, Flora, MS 39071
• The Stone Man and The Gem Lady – 98 N Jeff Davis Ave STE A, Long Beach, MS 39560
• Pebble House – 344A Courthouse Rd, Gulfport, MS 39507
• The Red Jasper – 3416 Hardy St #140, Hattiesburg, MS 39402
• Hands of Earth Energy – 106 Main Ave N, Magee, MS 39111