South Dakota is a treasure trove for rock enthusiasts! Nestled in the vast landscapes of this state, you’ll discover clues from ancient times hidden right under your feet. One of the most sought-after finds here is petrified wood.
Now, if you’re wondering where to find petrified wood, South Dakota offers numerous spots where you can discover these fascinating remnants of the past.
From the iconic Badlands to the depths of its national forests, every corner has the potential for a unique find.
Whether you’re an expert rockhound or someone new to the hobby, the thrill of holding a piece of age-old wood that’s turned to stone is unmatched. Let’s dive into the best locations in South Dakota to uncover these ancient wonders.
What Is South Dakota Petrified Wood
Petrified wood is a special kind of fossil. It starts as regular wood from ancient trees. Over time, the wood gets buried under layers of dirt, mud, and other stuff.
Water filled with minerals flows through this buried wood. These minerals start to replace the wood’s cells.
Bit by bit, the organic material of the tree gets swapped out with minerals. Before you know it, the wood turns into stone! This process can take millions of years.
When you look at petrified wood, you can still see details like tree rings and bark patterns, even though it’s now stone.
Most often, you’ll discover petrified wood in places where there was once a lot of water, like riverbanks or floodplains. Dry and windy areas, like deserts or badlands, are also good spots because the wood doesn’t rot away quickly there.
The types of petrified wood found in South Dakota
One of the coolest treasures you can stumble upon is petrified wood. In South Dakota, there’s a variety of this ancient wood waiting to be discovered.
Knowing how to identify petrified wood can lead you to some fantastic finds. Let’s dive in and uncover the types hidden in South Dakota’s terrain!
Silicified wood
Silicified wood is an amazing type of fossilized wood. Here’s how it happens: Over millions of years, buried wood gets soaked in mineral-rich water.
The main mineral in this process is silica. As the wood starts to decay, the silica in the water begins to take its place.
Slowly, the organic wood cells are replaced by silica, turning the wood into stone. This process can preserve the original structure of the wood.
So, when you look at silicified wood, you can often see the tree rings and other details, just like in the original wood!
Opalized wood
Opalized wood is a fascinating type of fossilized wood. Over time, when wood gets buried and water seeps through it, something special can happen.
If the water has the building blocks of opals in it, these particles can fill the spaces and cells in the wood.
Slowly, the wood’s structure gets replaced by opal. This means that the wood turns into a colorful, shiny stone that looks a bit like precious opal gems.
It’s exciting because opalized wood can show the patterns of the original wood, like tree rings, but with the shiny appearance of opal. For those who love collecting rocks and fossils, finding a piece of opalized wood is a real treat.
Agatized wood
Agatized wood is an amazing form of fossilized wood. When trees die and get buried, sometimes the conditions are just right for a unique transformation.
Over a long time, water containing the stuff that makes up agate flows through the buried wood.
This material slowly replaces the wood’s original material. As this happens, the detailed structure of the wood, like tree rings and grain, gets preserved in stone. The end result is a rock that looks like wood, but it’s made out of agate!
This means it can have beautiful colors and patterns, much like the agates you might see in a rock collection. For rockhounds, finding a piece of agatized wood can be super exciting.
- The extensive local experience of our team
- Input from a variety of local rockhounds and rockhound groups
- The difficulty in accessing a location
- Safety and potential hazards when collecting
- Private and public locations
- A desire to include locations for both the experienced and newbie hunters who are just starting out
Using these inputs we think we’ve put together the best list out there for those who love finding petrified wood for our collections!
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
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.
The Best Places To Find Petrified Wood In South Dakota
If you’re into rockhounding in South Dakota, you’re in for a treat! South Dakota, with its vast landscapes and rich geology, is a haven for finding petrified wood.
Dive into this guide and discover the top spots where these ancient treasures are waiting just for you!
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.
Black Hills Petrified Forest
If you’re curious about how to find petrified wood, South Dakota’s Black Hills region is a great place to start your search! This area is known for its rolling hills, rugged terrain, and dense forests.
The petrified forest lies in this unique landscape, and it’s like taking a step back in time.
Here, you can find petrified wood that’s millions of years old. The geology of the place is just amazing! Long ago, trees fell and were buried under layers of mud and volcanic ash.
Over time, minerals replaced the wood, turning it into stone while keeping its original shape. You can still see details like tree rings and bark patterns.
Getting to the Black Hills Petrified Forest isn’t too tricky. The main highways and roads lead you close to the area, and local signs guide you the rest of the way.
There might be some rough paths, so it’s best to check the local conditions before you go.
Once you’re there, you can explore trails and pathways, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot some petrified wood on the ground.
The mix of history, geology, and natural beauty makes the Black Hills Petrified Forest a special place for anyone who loves rocks and the stories they tell!
It’s also important to remember that different areas have different rockhounding rules and regulations.
Make sure to check in with the Bureau of Land Management South Dakota Field Office to make sure that everything you plan to do is aboveboard.
Where we found petrified wood in the Black Hills Petrified Forest
Nestled within the scenic Black Hills, this forest is filled with the remains of ancient trees turned to stone over millions of years.
As you walk the trails, you’ll come across petrified logs, some lying on the ground, and others still rooted in their original places.
These stone trees retain details like tree rings and bark textures. Keep your eyes open, especially near eroded areas and streambeds.
With every step, you’re walking on ancient history, and you might just stumble upon a piece of petrified wood waiting to be admired!
Petrified Wood Park and Museum
The Petrified Wood Park and Museum is a hidden gem in Lemmon, South Dakota. It’s in the northwest part of the state, not far from the border with North Dakota.
The park is unique with its towers, walls, and displays made entirely of petrified wood, fossils, and other local stones. These formations tell the tale of an ancient past when the area was home to lush forests.
Geologically, the park showcases the incredible process of wood turning into stone. Minerals seeped into the buried wood over millions of years, preserving them as petrified pieces. Many of these pieces are proudly displayed in the park.
The terrain of the park is pretty flat, making it easy for visitors of all ages to walk around and explore. There are paths and walkways that take you to different sections where you can see intricate designs made from petrified wood.
Reaching the Petrified Wood Park and Museum is straightforward. Lemmon is well-connected by roads, so you can drive up there without a hitch.
Once you’re in town, local signs will guide you straight to the park. It’s a great spot for families, rock lovers, or anyone curious about the ancient past of our planet!
Where we found petrified wood at the Petrified Wood Park and Museum
Petrified Wood Park and Museum in Lemmon, South Dakota, is a wonderland for anyone keen on ancient trees turned to stone. Inside the park, you’ll see petrified wood everywhere! There are tall towers and walls built entirely of these stone logs.
As you explore, you’ll also find walkways lined with chunks of petrified wood. The museum adds to the experience, showcasing smaller pieces and giving insights into their history.
Fall River County
Fall River County is a captivating spot in South Dakota! Located in the southern part of the state, it’s a region filled with diverse landscapes. You’ll see a mix of rolling prairies, rugged hills, and serene river valleys.
The Cheyenne River flows gracefully here, carving its path and shaping the land.
Geologically, Fall River County is a goldmine of stories. It boasts fascinating rock formations and mineral deposits that tell tales of ancient seas, volcanic activities, and age-old erosions. Rockhounds and geology buffs will find a lot to love!
The terrain varies, offering something for everyone. There are flatlands, ideal for casual walks, and more challenging areas for those seeking a bit of adventure.
The county’s natural beauty is a treat for the eyes, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Getting to Fall River County is a breeze. Major highways and roads lead you right to the heart of this scenic area. Whether you’re driving from a nearby town or coming from farther away, the journey is straightforward.
Once you arrive, you’ll be ready to explore and discover the geological wonders and natural beauty that make Fall River County a standout spot in South Dakota!
Where we found petrified wood in Fall River County
Head 7 miles east on a side road to the Flemming Ranch in Ardmore. From there, go east-southeast about 4 miles until you reach an area of breaks right on the Nebraska border.
The Fall River Canyon in the Hot Springs area is also the place to be.
Travel about 2 miles south of the Minnekahta area and look for a broad flat area. You can search for South Dakota petrified wood here and in the nearby hills. Parker Peak is also a great area for petrified wood.
Meanwhile, the Oelrichs area has several routes that lead to great finds. Look in breaks and buttes, and you might just find some pieces of petrified wood.
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands
Buffalo Gap National Grasslands is a vast open space in South Dakota, spanning over 600,000 acres! It’s a landscape filled with rolling prairies, rugged canyons, and unique rock formations.
If you love wide-open spaces, this is a place you’ll want to explore.
Geologically speaking, the area boasts a rich history. The rocks and formations you’ll see have been shaped over millions of years. They hold tales of ancient seas, river valleys, and the force of erosion by wind and water.
As you roam, you might even stumble upon fossils that reveal the animals that once lived here.
The terrain is diverse. While there are flat grassy areas perfect for a leisurely stroll, there are also challenging terrains for those looking for a bit more adventure.
It’s a dream spot for rockhounds, with a chance to find fascinating minerals and petrified wood.
Getting to Buffalo Gap National Grasslands is a breeze. Major roads lead to this gem, making it accessible for families, solo travelers, and everyone in between.
Where we found petrified wood at the Buffalo Gap National Grasslands
Rockhounds and nature lovers can spot chunks of this wood-turned-stone scattered across the grasslands. While walking the trails or exploring the canyons, keep your eyes peeled for pieces of petrified wood.
Badlands National Park
Badlands National Park in South Dakota is a jaw-dropping wonderland! Located in the southwestern part of the state, it showcases 244,000 acres of unique landscapes that seem out of this world.
These lands are a colorful mix of deep canyons, towering spires, and layered rock formations.
The terrain varies from rugged cliffs to rolling prairies. As you wander, you’ll come across the park’s showstoppers: the Badlands themselves. These eroded pinnacles and buttes display a rainbow of colors, from soft pinks to deep reds.
Geologically, the park is a storyteller. The layered rock tells tales of ancient times, revealing Earth’s history over millions of years. Fossils of ancient horses, rhinos, and other creatures provide clues about life long ago.
The Badlands National Park is easily accessible and well-connected by major roads. Just hop on I-90, and you’ll find exits that lead you straight to the park’s main attractions.
Whether you’re traveling from a city or a quaint town, the routes are straightforward.
Where we found petrified wood at the Badlands National Park
As you explore, focus on areas where erosion has revealed the park’s deeper layers. The Sage Creek Wilderness area is a popular spot. Here, amidst the colorful, layered rocks, you’ll spot pieces of wood that turned to stone over time.
Other Great Places To Find South Dakota Petrified Wood
Let’s explore the other spots in South Dakota where you can uncover pieces of petrified wood:
| County | Location |
| Butte County | Look for the Belle Fourche Reservoir, then travel 3.5 miles north on gravel road to Stony Point |
| Butte County | Shoreline of Belle Fourche Dam in the Nisland area |
| Campbell County | Hillsides, ridges, cut banks, tributary gravels in Mound City |
| Corson County | Ridges, slopes, stream beds, and more in Little Eagle |
| Corson County | Banks and gravels along the Grand River in Little Eagle |
| Custer County | Paths going to the Fairburn Agate Beds in the Fairburn area |
| Meade County | Piedmont |
| Mellette County | Corn Creek |
| Pennington County | Eroded areas in Scenic |
| Pennington County | Corral Draw in Scenic |
| Perkins County | Lemmon |
| Todd County | Banks and surrounding hillsides of the Little White River in the Parmelee area |
| Todd County | Banks of the Little White River in the Mission area |
General Areas You Should Try
South Dakota is a place filled with geological wonders, including the hidden gems of petrified wood. Explorers, collectors, and anyone with a keen interest in geology can discover petrified wood in the areas below:
Petrified forests
Petrified forests are like treasure chests for rockhounds and collectors. These forests are packed with ancient trees that turned into stone over time.
The dense concentration of South Dakota petrified wood in these areas means collectors have a higher chance of finding good specimens. It’s not just about quantity; the quality of pieces in petrified forests can be top-notch.
Many pieces show details of the tree’s original grain, rings, and even knots. Some might even have crystals inside, sparkling when you hold them up to the light!
Exploring a petrified forest is also a journey back in time. Each piece of wood is like a page from a history book, telling a story from millions of years ago. For collectors, this adds an extra layer of excitement.
So, for anyone keen on collecting petrified wood, petrified forests are the go-to spots.
Rivers and riverbanks
Rivers and riverbanks are nature’s very own treasure maps for rockhounds! These flowing waters play a big role in revealing hidden gems like petrified wood.
As rivers flow, they erode away soil and softer rocks, uncovering the harder, more resistant materials underneath. Petrified wood, being harder than typical soil or sediment, often gets exposed in this process.
Riverbanks, with their constant ebb and flow of water, are like conveyor belts of geologic goodies. When water levels drop, especially in the dryer seasons, newly uncovered petrified wood can be spotted along the banks.
The continuous movement of water also tumbles these pieces, giving them a naturally polished look over time.
For collectors, rivers offer an exciting opportunity. Every rainstorm or change in water flow can reveal new finds. The dynamic nature of rivers means there’s always the possibility of discovering something new with every visit.
Streams and creeks
Streams and creeks are like nature’s secret pathways, guiding rockhounds to hidden treasures like petrified wood. These smaller waterways have the power to shape and reveal the land in surprising ways.
As they flow, they move soil, pebbles, and sometimes bigger rocks, exposing the gems hidden beneath.
For petrified wood collectors, streams and creeks are wonderful hunting grounds. The gentle movement of water can wash away softer material and uncover pieces of ancient wood turned to stone.
These pieces, having been tumbled by the stream, often have a smooth finish that’s pleasing to the eye.
Collectors also love the accessibility of streams and creeks. They’re easier to explore than big rivers, and their winding paths through different terrains mean there’s a variety of finds waiting to be discovered.
Common Questions About Finding Petrified Wood In South Dakota
These are the answers to questions that people usually ask about South Dakota:
How old is petrified wood in South Dakota?
Within the early Cretaceous Lakota Sandstone deposits, which outline the Black Hills, you’ll find some of South Dakota’s oldest petrified wood. These incredible pieces date back an astonishing 120 to 130 million years!
When you pick up a piece of this petrified wood, you’re holding a relic from an era when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. The colors and patterns in each fragment tell stories of the conditions and climates of that distant time.
Can you find petrified palm wood in South Dakota?
Petrified palm wood is an exciting find for any rockhound! However, when it comes to South Dakota, you won’t typically find petrified palm wood.
South Dakota’s geology primarily preserves wood from ancient coniferous trees and other types of vegetation that existed in the region millions of years ago during the Late Cretaceous Period.
During this time, South Dakota’s climate and environment were different from the tropical regions where palm trees thrive.
If you’re hoping to find petrified palm wood, you might have better luck in states like Texas or Louisiana. These areas were once covered by ancient coastlines and had conditions favorable for palm trees.
The Best Places To Buy Petrified Wood In South Dakota
South Dakota boasts some top-notch spots for enthusiasts and collectors to purchase petrified wood pieces. Here are our top picks:
- The Rock Shed – 515 1st St, Keystone, SD 57751
- Ken’s Minerals & Trading Post – 12372 US-16, Custer, SD 57730
- Indigo Iris Rocks and Stones – 7275 Mt Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702
- Dakota Stone’s Rock Shop – 23863 Palmer Gulch Road, Hill City, SD 57745
- Whitaker’s Rock Shop – 27162 Wind Cave Rd, Hot Springs, SD 57747
