Rockhounding in Glenn County, CA: 8 Places to Hunt

If you’re looking for an excellent rockhounding destination, look no further than Glenn County, California.

This area is home to numerous spots where you can find valuable minerals and gemstones.

While there are many locations to choose from, it’s important to do your research before heading out to ensure you are adequately prepared.

This article will provide a list of the 8 best rockhounding spots within driving distance of Glenn County.

For each site, we’ll discuss what type of rocks and minerals you can find there, as well as other important details. Let’s get started!

Rockhounding in Glenn County (Let’s Go)

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article by YesDirt.com is for informational purposes and is subject to change. Laws are updated. Accessibility guidelines and restrictions change. Be sure to confirm the land status and collection rules before you travel to an unfamiliar location or collect any material.

The Sacramento Delta

The Sacramento Delta is a great spot to find both agates and quartz crystals.

This area can be reached by taking Highway 99 to Modesto and then following the signs for the delta.

Park here and start your hunt! Once you reach the delta, take a left on Tower Road and drive until you reach Steamboat Slough.

The rocks and minerals found here can vary depending on which part of the delta you’re hunting in, so it’s crucial to do research before heading out.

In general, however, you can expect to find agates, quartz crystals, jasper, and more.

Be sure to bring a sturdy pair of shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking through tall grass and bushes.

Along Highway 49

If you’re looking for a variety of rocks and minerals, Highway 49 is the place to go.

This highway runs through the Sierra Nevada foothills, making it a great spot to find jasper, volcanic material, and more.

The best way to find good specimens is to stop along the side of the road and take a look around.

Be aware that this area can be quite dangerous if you’re not prepared, as there are steep cliffs and drop-offs.

It’s also important to be aware of bears and other wildlife that may be present.

Always hike with a friend and make sure you have plenty of food and water before heading out.

The North Fork of the Feather River

The North Fork of the Feather River is a great spot to find quartz crystals, agates, and jasper.

To get there, take Highway 70 north to Quincy and then follow the signs for the North Fork of the Feather River.

Once you reach the river, park and start your hunt!

The rocks and minerals found here can vary depending on which part of the river you’re hunting in, so it’s important to do some research before heading out.

In general, however, you can expect to find quartz crystals, agates, and jasper.

This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a variety of different rocks and minerals.

The South Fork of the Feather River

The South Fork of the Feather River is another excellent spot for those looking to spend a day rockhounding!

The most common type of rocks found here are quartz crystals, but you can also find jasper, agates, and more.

To get to the river, take Highway 70 south to Marysville and then follow the signs for the South Fork of the Feather River.

Once you reach the river, park and start your hunt!

It’s important to note that the South Fork of the Feather River differs from the North Fork and other areas of the river.

The rocks and minerals found here are not as varied, so be sure to do your research before heading out.

The Yuba River

The Yuba River is located just over an hour from Glenn County and is a great location to search for granitic plutons, metamorphosed rocks, ophiolite, and volcanic rocks.

While the rocks and minerals found here can vary depending on which part of the river you’re hunting in, most people who visit the Yuba River come for the quartz crystals.

This area can be difficult to access, as there are a lot of rapids and obstacles in the way. 4-wheel drive is highly recommended, and it’s best to visit this location during the summer or early fall when the water levels are lower.

Crystal Mine near Loyalton

The Crystal Mine is located within the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest off of Long Valley Road near the Lookout Campground.

While this location is one of the furthest drives from Glenn County, it’s definitely worth the trip.

Crystals and gemstones can be found all around the area, so it’s a great spot for those looking to find a variety of different rocks and minerals.

The Crystal Mine is open from sunrise to sunset, and there is no fee to enter.

It’s important to note that this is a strenuous hike during some seasons, but is still described as a great family-friendly location.

Mount Lassen National Park

Mount Lassen National Park is one of the best spots in California for those looking to find volcanic rocks and minerals.

Just over a two-hour drive from Glenn County, this park is home to a variety of different rocks, including basalt, andesite, and dacite.

In addition to volcanic rocks, Mount Lassen National Park is also home to a variety of different plants and animals.

This is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a day trip with plenty of things to see and do.

Impassable Rock

Note: We have received communication from locals living in the Impassable Rock area trying to deter rock hunters from trespassing. Be extra careful in this area to make sure you are not hiking across private property.

If you’re looking for a place to find jasper, agate, and quartz crystals, Impassable Rock in Crescent City is the spot for you.

This location can be reached by taking Highway 199 to Crescent City.

Once you reach the town, take a left on Elk Valley Road and drive for about 10 miles until you see a sign for Impassable Rock on your right.

The rocks at this location are scattered all around the area, so be prepared to do some crawling and scrambling to find the best specimens.

Note that this site is also known for its abundance of agates, so it’s a great place to hunt if you’re looking for that particular mineral.

It’s important to note that 4-wheel drive is recommended for this location, as the road can be quite rough.

Rockhounding can be a fun and exciting activity for the whole family.

If you’re looking for some great spots to hunt for rocks and minerals, be sure to check out the locations mentioned in this article. Happy hunting!

California Rockhounding Resources

If you like to have a physical book in hand (like when there’s no cell service), here’s a few popular options:

Rockhounding California: A Guide To The State’s Best Rockhounding Sites

Gem Trails of Southern California

Gem Trails of Northern California

Smithsonian Rocks and Minerals Identification Guide

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