Haystack Butte, also known as Haystack Rock, is a remote rockhounding site in the Owyhee region. It lies about 24 miles southeast of Nyssa and 30 miles south of Vale, Oregon.

This rugged desert landscape, dotted with sagebrush and exposed rock, is a great place to find jasper, agate, petrified wood, chalcedony, and common opal.

If you plan to travel further in the area, you can visit more great rockhounding sites, including Twin Springs and Negro Rock, making it worthwhile to explore all of them if you are in the area.

A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended for access, and travel is not advised during wet conditions.

For those looking to camp, Twin Springs Campground—one of the most remote in Oregon — is 15 miles away. It serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby rockhounding sites and attractions in the Owyhee region.

Haystack Butte Rockhounding

Throughout the Haystack Butte area, you can find plenty of chunky rocks and minerals, including jasper, agate, petrified wood, chalcedony, and common opal.

Jasper comes in bright red, green, yellow brecciated, and jellybean varieties. It takes an excellent polish and is perfect for creating beautiful cabochons.

Agate is typically clear, white, or gray, sometimes with mossy or botryoidal patterns.

Petrified wood is scattered across the area, mostly in small pieces.

Chalcedony and common opal are also occasionally found mixed with other materials.

Plenty of material can be found on the surface. Search for float among the sagebrush, dumps, dry washes, and hillsides. Surface collecting is a great way to start and assess the area's potential. Bring a rock hammer, shovel, and geology pick.

Always be mindful of claim markers and respect private property.

Know Before You Go

Here are a few things you should keep in mind before heading to Haystack Butte:

• 4WD Vehicle: A high-clearance 4WD is highly recommended. The roads are rough and can be impassable after rain.
• Remote Location: There are no services (gas stations, drinking water, or stores) within 20-30 miles of the site. Ensure your vehicle is fully fueled, and bring plenty of water and supplies. Cell service is spotty or non-existent.
• Desert Wildlife: Watch out for rattlesnakes—they are common in this area.

The Owyhee desert is a tough environment, so plan ahead. Bring enough water, sunscreen, and supplies to stay safe in the heat.

Familiarize yourself with desert safety practices to better prepare for the unique challenges of this remote and stunning landscape.

Dispersed camping is allowed throughout of BLM land.

The closest campground, Twin Springs, is located 15 miles away and offers basic amenities, including vault toilets and fire rings. This campground is an excellent base for exploring other rock-collecting sites in the area, such as Twin Springs and Negro Rocks.

Lodging is available 50 miles east in Homedale, Idaho or 50 miles northeast in Ontario, Oregon.

Lodging in Homedale, ID

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Homedale, ID

Lodging in Ontario, OR

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Ontario, OR