Negro Rock is located roughly 25 miles south of Vale and 30 miles southeast of Nyssa. This site is a remote high desert destination northwest of Owyhee Reservoir in Southeastern Oregon.

This site features a vast, rugged landscape dotted with sagebrush and framed by uniquely shaped hills with rocky peaks.

The hill, known as Negro Rock — a name considered outdated and inappropriate by some — stands out as a key landmark, serving as a starting point for rockhounding. Despite decades of visits, collectors can still find quality specimens in the area.

The slopes around this hill are mainly known for their high-quality petrified wood, which varies in color and preservation quality. Other minerals can also be found in this area.

You can visit additional excellent rock-collecting spots nearby, including Twin Springs and Haystack Butte. This makes it worthwhile to explore all of them if you are in the area.

For those seeking a remote camping experience, Twin Springs Campground is just six miles away. This secluded spot makes a great base for exploring the rockhounding sites and natural attractions of the Owyhee region.

Negro Rock Rockhounding

The slope of the hill contains high-quality petrified wood. The wood, which typically has well-preserved cellular structures, appears in shades of beige, brown, orange, gray, and black.

Additionally, the site features various minerals, including common opal, agate, jasper, and milky quartz. Common opal is usually brown, while agate ranges from transparent to yellowish and reddish, sometimes displaying water lines. Jasper is often found in green, brown, and gray tones.

Exploring the site involves hiking around the hill and searching for float material in dry washes, among sagebrush, and along the hillsides.

With some luck, digging may reveal larger pieces of petrified wood, though results are not guaranteed. During our most recent visit, we saw no evidence of prior excavation but managed to find materials nestled among the sagebrush and dry washes.

Know Before You Go

A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended, and travel is not advised during wet conditions. The area is remote, with limited services and cell coverage, so plan accordingly.

Be prepared – The high desert climate can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and appropriate gear. Check Desert Safety Tips.

Dispersed camping is allowed throughout BLM land.

The closest campground with amenities like vault toilets and fire rings, Twin Springs is 15 miles away. This campground is a great base for exploring other rock collecting sites in the area such as Twin Springs and Haystack Butte.

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