Guide: 9 Best Locations to Find Geodes in California

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California is among the best states for rockhounding rocks, minerals, crystals, and even fossils. However, how does it stand when it comes to geodes? You can find geodes in California if you know where to look.

Although California isn’t particularly famous for its geode deposits, some rockhounding spots exist within the state where you can find this beautiful rock. Geodes are often found in desert regions, volcanic ash beds, or areas with plenty of limestones. The good news is that California is a state where you can find these mediums.

Let’s see exactly where you can find geodes in California, what types of geodes are available, and the best places to look for these rocks!

If you want to check out the best book about rockhounding in California, you can find it here (Amazon link).

Can You Find Geodes in California?

You can find all sorts of geodes in California, particularly near mountainous regions, creeks, rivers, canyons, beaches, and many counties in desert areas. Chalcedony geodes, amethyst geodes, agate geodes, opal geodes, quartz geodes, or colemanite geodes in California.

California’s best geode locations include its northern, southern, and central regions. For example, you can try your luck near Los Angeles at Escondido Canyon or in the northern regions at Crystal Mountain.

In the southern parts of the state, Imperial County is a great area to find all sorts of geodes, especially if you head to the Black Hills.

Sometimes, discerning geodes from other rock specimens can be challenging. However, watch the video below to see how to spot a geode immediately! Let’s explore California’s northern, central, and southern areas to know the best spots to find geodes!

BTW: Do you want to know more about rock and mineral identification? The books listed below are the best ones you can find on the internet (Amazon links):

TIP: California is brimming with fascinating rocks and minerals that would delight any rockhound. Check out the list of the most common rocks and minerals in California in the article below:
15 Common Rocks & Minerals You Can Find in California

Where to Find Geodes in Northern California?

Northern California generally has the best rock-hounding locations for minerals, crystals, rocks, and gemstones. You will find plenty of locations to seek out various geode specimens here.

The best geode locations in north California include Crystal Mountain, Pino Grande, Slate Mountain, Peterson Mountain, and Traverse Creek. Bring the proper tools with you no matter what location you visit because you will need them to check, extract, or dig the geodes up.

If you visit Crystal Mountain, you will likely stumble upon quartz geodes, as this is one of California’s most famous quartz deposits.

There are several mines with several entrances. Visit Crystal Mountain in Sierra County, and don’t worry; there will be no collection fees.

Pino Grande has several substantial geode deposits, most located around rivers and streams.

Not all sites are public, so you’ll have to research. If you wish to explore private places, obtain permission first.

TIP: Geodes are mainly found near desert regions or areas with limestone deposits. Check out the best locations in the United States in the article below:
Where to Find Geodes: 5 Best Environments & Locations (USA)

Where to Find Geodes in Central California?

Central California is rich in minerals, rocks, and crystals, but it also boasts some stunning geode specimens. The greatest difficulty with the core regions is that there are more private lands; thus, you must conduct extensive study before venturing out.

Central California’s best places to find geode specimens include the Black Hills, Black Mountain, San Jose County, Monterey County, Placer County, San Francisco Country, and Fresno County. You can always join a rockhounding club to learn more about California’s central hidden rockhounding locations.

You have a vast range to cover at the Black Hills since it stretches from San Joaquin Valley to the Sierra Nevada.

Since this area was once part of a more extensive mountain range, many of its treasures were unearthed, and you can easily find geodes here. If you want to visit a famous county such as San Jose, search for the geodes in the creeks.

TIP: California is an accessible location for finding gemstones, with a wide variety. Check out the best California digging sites in the article below:
California Rockhounding: 11 Best Spots with Map & Laws

Where to Find Geodes in Southern California?

Southern California most likely holds the most geode-hunting locations in the state. Here, you will find several types of geodes in different environments, and the best part is that some of these areas are free to explore and collect.

The best geode-hunting locations in Southern California are the Slate Mountains, San Bernardino County, Los Angeles, Riverside County, and Imperial County. There are several other locations, but in these regions, there seems to be a concentration of geode deposits scattered throughout the area.

For example, Los Angeles County has dozens of significant areas to search for geodes, particularly near the Escondido Canyon, west of Acton. You can also check out the Agua Dulce Canyon.

The Slate Mountain in El Dorado not only provides spectacular vistas but also allows tourists to discover numerous geodes along its many pathways.

In San Bernardino County, there are several geodes ready to be discovered near limestone formations, ancient sea beds, lakes, and creeks. You can try your luck on the northeast side of Lockheart, the northwest half of Leadpipe Springs, or in the Hinkley region.

The Calico Hills or Yermo area are also excellent places to search for geodes. If you visit Imperial County, visit the northern parts of the Imperial Valley Area or the Hauser Geode Beds in Wiley Well.

Riverside County also has its fair share of geode locations to explore. You can find geodes almost anywhere in this county, especially in the Blythe area or the desert center.

Recommendation box: All tools and equipment you need for rockhounding and rock identification* (Amazon links):

1. Estwing Rock Hammer – Light, comfortable, and extremely durable hammer.
2. Estwing Geologist Pick – Classic and the most trusted paleo pick in the world.
3. Finder 12-inch Chisels – Heavy-duty chisels set with hand protection.
4. Mini Handle Shovel – This is a great tool for digging deep in the dirt.
5 Ironclad Utility Work Gloves – Breathable, but they also protect the areas requiring them most.
6. 3M Safety Glasses – Comfortable and efficient goggles for rockhounding.
7. Convoy 8+ UV Light – 365nm UV LED flashlight with a patented glass filter.
8. Wesley’s Jewelers Loupe – High magnification options (30X and 60X) with carrying case.
9. Mohs Hardness Kit – A specially designed kit for rockhounds

*All recommended products are personally tested and regularly used by experts from this website.

Conclusion

California is a big state with plenty to offer, particularly geode specimens. If you reside here or want to come, be sure you have the necessary tools since you’re about to go on an experience like no other while hunting for geodes.

Always ask locals for further information about the sites you intend to visit or conduct a comprehensive study beforehand. Some locations are dry, so carry enough water and food to ensure a safe outdoor experience.

TIP: Are you also a gold enthusiast looking for the best places to prospect in California? Check out the complete guide on gold prospecting in California in the article below:
Gold Prospecting in California: 8 Best Locations & Laws