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Finding geodes in Texas is difficult, especially since this state isn’t well-known for its geode deposits. However, there are some places here where rockhounds have found various geode specimens.
Even though there is a scarcity of geodes in Texas, you can still find specimens throughout its borders. Even if you go to the eastern, western, southern, northern, or central parts of Texas, you will discover geodes if you know where to go to. What is essential is to focus on the rivers, creeks, and desert regions.
Let’s see exactly where you can find geodes in Texas and some of the best locations to find them!
If you are interested in checking out the best rockhounding book about rockhounding in Texas, you can find it here (Amazon link).
Can You Find Geodes in Texas?
Geodes are usually found near limestone deposits, rivers, creeks, desert regions, or areas where volcanic activity was present at some point in time. Texas, fortunately, has all of these mediums.
For example, here is where you will find the Chihuahuan Desert, the largest desert in North America. Although it isn’t entirely situated in the borders of Texas, some parts of it travel across the state. Here you will find geodes, or you can try the Palo Duro Canyon, Van Horn, Big Bend, or around Alpine City.
Let’s analyze the state of Texas and see precisely where you should go 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):
- Smithsonian Handbooks: Rocks & Minerals
- Gemstone & Crystal Properties (Quick Study Home)
- Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Rocks and Minerals (National Geographic Kids)
Where to Find Geodes in North Texas?
North Texas is among the most scarce regions where you might find geodes; however, even though the northern areas don’t have many locations, the few present are abundant in geode specimens.
The Palo Duro Canyon in the Panhandle region is probably the most well-known and famous location in North Texas, where geode specimens can be found.
This area is packed with geode specimens lying on the ground. However, the difficult thing here is locating well-formed specimens rather than stones or shattered ones.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the country’s second biggest canyon, is easily accessible by automobile. It is approximately 25 kilometers from downtown Amarillo. The appeal of this canyon resides in its immensity since it runs for almost 120 miles, providing lots of space to explore.
You can easily find geodes here, but you should also try your luck at the Caprock Canyons State Park or the Timbercreek Canyon; if you need help identifying geodes while on the hunt, check out this video here. Some types of geodes are more challenging to spot than others.
TIP: Fake geodes can be identified based on how they were manufactured. Find out more about spotting fake geodes in the article below:
Difference Between Real & Fake Geodes: Focus on These Signs
Where to Find Geodes in Central Texas?
Central Texas is, without a doubt, where you will see the most diversity in geodes, as here you can find blue topaz geodes, agate geodes, quartz geodes, or calcite geodes.
There are many limestone formations in Central Texas where you can find geodes. You can head to the Edwards Plateau or search the gravel beds at the Rio Grande River, Big Bend, or Mason County. Another area worth looking into is hitchhiking in the south-central regions that border the state of Louisiana.
Despite the fact that central Texas contains several geode sites and geodes of all varieties, much of the land is privately held. As a result, in most circumstances, you must get authorization or pay a nominal charge before collecting.
If you’re visiting Austin, consider yourself lucky! Geodes may be found in a variety of locations, especially in the west.
To seek for geodes, go to Mount Bonnell, Brownwood, or Lampasas. You may find some white geode specimens here, but you may also try your luck in neighboring counties like Fisher, Nolan, or Coke.
The Llano Uplift area is one of the most abundant mineral sites in Texas, where you can easily find geodes, especially near the riverbeds, and the best part is that most of the land is public.
If you visit the Big Bend, search the streams and limestone formations, but make sure to get permission as many areas here are privately owned.
If you are near San Angelo, Grape Creek is another potential good area to search for geodes, but the Edwards Plateau is undoubtedly the best place to find geodes in Central Texas.
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 East Texas?
East Texas may not be as rich in geodes as its central parts, but there are a few locations worth exploring. Just make sure you have the proper equipment!
In East Texas, you might find geodes in the national forests near Louisiana, but you must have permission to collect them. Check out Sabine National Forest, Angelina National Forest, Davy Crockett National Forest, and Sam Houston National Forest. Mount Vernon and Mount Pleasant are also worth a shot.
If you’re visiting Dallas, you might find geodes in surrounding counties and towns such as Greenville, Blue Ridge, Emory, Oak Ridge, Salesville near Mineral Wells, or Greenwood.
Creeks and rivers are always worth exploring for geodes; you might find more than you bargained for in these areas. Just ensure the lands aren’t privately owned; if they are, get permission first.
If you are interested in checking out the best rockhounding book about rockhounding in Texas, you can find it here (Amazon link).
Conclusion
Texas is prosperous regarding rocks, minerals, gemstones, crystals, and fossils. Although it isn’t mainly known for its geodes, there are a few locations where you can find this beautiful rock. And some of the geodes you can find in Texas are truly beautiful and unique, such as the blue geodes.
No matter in what region you decide to go geode hunting in Texas, always consider joining a rockhounding club.
It is an excellent opportunity to meet and make friends with like-minded people with the same passions and a way to get to know some of the best rockhounding areas for various specimens that might not be available to the public.
TIP: Texas is among the top locations where you can rockhound in the United States. Check out the complete guide on rockhounding in Texas in the article below:
Best Rockhounding Locations in Texas & What You Can Find