Located about 35 miles northeast of Burns, North Beede Reservoir is a popular destination for rockhounding. This rugged sagebrush-covered landscape contains agate, jasper, petrified wood, and fossil leaves.

The collecting area, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), begins just off the highway and extends northeast for approximately 2.7 miles. Beyond this point lies private land where collecting is prohibited.

Some parts of the North Beede area are easily accessible, such as Site 1, while others require a high-clearance 4WD vehicle or a longer hike.

To explore additional collecting areas, you'll need to cross the creek at Site 2, so be prepared for rough road conditions. Areas farther from the highway may offer a greater variety of specimens.

North Beede Reservoir Rockhounding

The area north of the reservoir contains a variety of collectible rocks and minerals.

Specimens can be found on the flatlands and hillsides throughout the collecting area. Dry washes and hillside slopes are often productive because seasonal water flow can expose previously buried material.

During the dry season, the hard ground can make collecting more difficult. A rock hammer, geology pick, and chisel can be useful tools for locating and extracting specimens.

North Beede Reservoir Rocks

• Agate: Gray, white, and clear varieties.
• Plume Agate: Usually white and yellow, with occasional pink, blue, or yellow hues.
• Jasper: Red, yellow, and brown varieties.
• Petrified Wood: Small pieces, often in red or brown shades.
• Fossil Leaves: Found embedded in chalky white rock.

Collecting Sites

Site 1
For those without a high-clearance 4WD vehicle, Site 1 offers the easiest access. Park near the highway or drive about 0.2 miles to the fork in the road. Explore the surrounding flats and sagebrush-covered terrain, where small to medium-sized pieces of agate, jasper, and petrified wood can often be found on the surface.

Site 2
For Site 2, take the left road at the fork and travel approximately 0.7 miles. If conditions allow, cross the creek to reach the white cliffs. This area is known for fossil leaf specimens. Bring tools to split rocks carefully and examine potential fossil-bearing material.

Other Sites
Continue past Site 2 for another 1.8 miles to the BLM boundary. Areas farther from the highway may contain larger specimens. Search dry washes, hillsides, and gullies for agate, jasper, petrified wood, and other material.

Know Before You Go: The North Beede Reservoir area is remote and rugged, so preparation is important.

• Vehicle Requirements: The road is rough and may become muddy after rain. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended.
• Lack of Services: There are no nearby gas stations, food services, or water sources. Bring all necessary supplies, including a spare tire, sunscreen, and plenty of water.
• Wildlife Precautions: Watch for rattlesnakes and other desert wildlife. Wear sturdy boots while exploring.
• Road Conditions: If the road appears muddy or impassable, park and continue on foot.
• Personal Safety: Cell service is limited. Inform someone of your travel plans and consider carrying a satellite communication device.
• Safety Preparations: Familiarize yourself with desert safety practices to better prepare for the unique challenges of this remote area.

The Alvord Desert region also contains several geothermal features. Nearby areas such as Mickey Hot Springs and Borax Lake Hot Springs include hot springs, steam vents, and other geothermal activity.

On the opposite side of the highway, approximately 30 to 40 miles away along Stinking Creek Road, several additional rockhounding locations attract collectors. Warm Springs Reservoir is known for plume agate, while the Clear Creek area is a source of Stinking Water petrified wood.

The Beulah Reservoir, 40 miles northeast, has even more adventures, including rockhounding, camping, and fishing.

Camping is allowed on BLM land, and primitive camping is available at Warm Springs Reservoir.

If you prefer a more comfortable stay, the nearest lodging is in Hines and Burns.

Lodging in Hines and Burns