Great Places to Find Geodes in Missouri
Missouri is one of the best places to go geode hunting. It is home to a variety of geode sites, from creeks to mining sites. In this article, we will explore some of the best Missouri geode sites to discover.
Missouri, often referred to as the “Show-Me State,” not only boasts stunning landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities but also hides a geological treasure beneath its surface – geodes.
These spherical rocks, known for their hollow interiors filled with crystals, can be found in various locations across the state. If you’re an avid rockhound or simply fascinated by Earth’s natural wonders, Missouri is the perfect destination for geode hunting.
What Are Missouri Geodes?
Geodes are hollow rocks that are lined inside with crystals or other minerals. The term “geode” is derived from the Greek word “geoides,” meaning “earthlike” or “rounded.”
Missouri geodes appear as ordinary rocks from the outside but conceal a breathtaking secret within their interiors. These hollow, usually spherical structures are lined with crystals or other mineral deposits, creating a stunning display of colors and textures.
These come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from large football stones to small egg-shaped stones. Because of their breathtaking interiors, these gems are highly prized among collectors.
The outer shell of a geode is typically composed of a more common rock material, such as limestone or basalt, which provides a protective covering for the delicate crystals inside.
The crystals inside geodes can come in a variety of colors, including purple amethyst, clear quartz, blue or green celestite, and many others, depending on the types of minerals present.
Types of Geodes Found in Missouri
Missouri is home to a variety of geodes that can be found throughout the state. There are various types of geodes with different colors and properties found in the state.
Here is a list of geodes that can be found in the area:
- Dolomite geodes
- Barite geodes
- Aragonite geodes
- Calcite geodes
- Chalcopyrite
- Fluorite
- Geothite
- Honessite geodes
- Millerite geodes
- Marcasite geodes
- Malachite
- Pyrite
- Quartz geodes
- Smithsonite geodes
- Siderite geodes
How We Picked the Best Spots for Missouri Geodes
When it comes to choosing the best spots for mining geodes in Missouri, we had to consider a lot of things such as:
- Understanding of our team about the area.
- Recommendations from the local mining groups.
- Accessibility to the mining area.
- Safety and potential hazards.
- Private and public locations.
Also, look at our gem mining spots in Kentucky.
Best Places to Find Geodes in Missouri
Although there might be better places for geode mining in Missouri, these are the best places to visit.
Weber Quarry
Weber Quarry is located in the southern part of Missouri, near the Ozark Mountains. The geography there is stunning with green mountains. However, the terrain the rocky and uneven, so you will need some good boots and hiking equipment.
The place is known for its abundance of geodes, and you can expect to find some of the best specimens there. As long as you have a reliable GPS of a local guide, the visit is surely got to be adventurous.
Some of the specimens we found in the area are fluorite geodes, calcite geodes, and Millerite geodes.
Keokuk Geode State Park
Nestled along the banks of the Mississippi River, Keokuk Geode State Park is a haven for geode enthusiasts. This park, located in the southeastern part of the state, offers a unique experience for rock collectors.
The region’s geodes are primarily composed of chalcedony and quartz, and they can be found in various sizes, from small specimens to large, football-sized treasures.
Visitors to Keokuk Geode State Park can explore the park’s trails and creek beds, keeping an eye out for geodes exposed by erosion. The park also features a designated digging area, where rockhounds can try their luck at unearthing their own geodes.
This hands-on experience makes Keokuk Geode State Park an excellent destination for both seasoned collectors and beginners.
Clark County
Clark County is another great place for geode hunting in Missouri. It is located in the northeastern part of the state, near the Mississippi River, where the terrain is mostly flat. You can see rolling green hills in the distance, but the place itself is farmland with woods.
This spot is known for its abundance of agates, which are some of the most unique rocks you will ever find in the Midwest. Some of the best spots to explore in the county for geodes are:
- Scheffer property
- Fox Road of Kahoka
- Des Moines River
- Alexandria
- Fox Road in St. Francisville
- Old Iron Bridge on the River of Fox City
- Weaver’s Branch
- Easter Day Farm
- Sinottte property
St. Francois State Park
Heading west to the Ozark region, St. Francois State Park offers another fantastic opportunity for geode hunting. Known for its rugged terrain and diverse ecosystems, this park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The geodes in this area are typically found in creek beds and rocky outcrops, waiting to be discovered by intrepid adventurers.
The park provides various trails that wind through the scenic landscapes, providing ample opportunities for geode hunting along the way.
To enhance your experience, consider visiting during the spring or fall when the weather is mild, and the park’s natural beauty is at its peak. St. Francois State Park showcases the harmonious blend of nature and geology, making it a must-visit destination for rock enthusiasts.
Fox River
Fox river is located in the southwestern part of Missouri and is surrounded by lush forests and rolling green hills. It has clear blue waters and rocky cliffs where you can find some of the most pretty stones.
Its terrain can be tough as compared to other places, so you will need your tools. But there are gorgeous rock formations along the river, making the trip totally worth it.
Weaver’s Branch
Weaver’s Branch is a great place with crystal water and rocky mountains. It has plenty of small waterfalls, with lots of rocks and boulders along the riverbanks.
It has layers of sedimentary rock, that have been folded over time to create unique patterns and texture. You might need to navigate through winding country rodes, but it has some of the most stunning geodes in Mississipi.
Most of the geodes found here are Aragonite, Calcite, Barite, Fluorite, Dolomite, Quartz, and Sphalerite crystals.
Des Moines River
Des Moines River flows through the central part of Missouri, where the geography is really cool with rocky formations along the banks of the river. It is a bit tough terrain, but the journey is totally worth it as there are a lot of amazing rocks found in the region.
If you are up for a challenge, Des Moines River is a great option for rockhounders. You can find plenty of geodes downstream of the river, along its south shore and mouth.
Other Places to Dig for Geodes in Missouri
Apart from our top picks, there are plenty of other places where you can find beautiful geodes across Missouri. Here are some of our other recommendations.
(Source: RockhoundingResource)
- Area shale outcrops along Fox Road of Kahoka
- Wayland Area
- Fox Road in St. Francisville
- Fabius River east of Durham
- Keokuk Shale along North Fabius Road
- Ferdinand Creek
- Grindstone Creek
- Daviess County
- Livingston County
- Walnut Creek
- Adrian’s Quarry off Highway 63
- Le Grange
- Old Monroe
- Danville Quarry
FAQs
What mineral is Missouri known for?
Galena is the official mineral of Missouri. It is found in Southwest Missouri and is mostly located in Washington, Iron, Crawford, and Reynold Counties.
Are geodes valuable?
Yes. geodes can be worth anywhere from $5 to $1000, depending on its location and type. Its price is mostly based on whether the rock is cut open because it contains crystals inside.
How do you identify geodes?
To identify unopened geodes, examine the medium-sized rocks to see if it’s more egg-shaped than the rocks around them. It could be a sign that it’s a geode. Additionally, geodes are also bumpy on the outside.
Conclusion
Missouri’s diverse landscapes, rich geological history, and abundance of mineral deposits make it a prime destination for geode enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a controlled digging experience, exploring state parks, or delving into the history of mining regions, the Show-Me State offers a wide array of options for rockhounding adventures.
From the banks of the Mississippi River to the Ozark Mountains, Missouri’s geodes are waiting to be discovered.
So, pack your rock hammer, put on your hiking boots, and embark on a journey to unearth the hidden gems that lie beneath the surface of this geologically fascinating state.
