Stinkingwater Petrified wood site at Clear Creek is located about 43 miles east of Burns in Harney County. This remote high-desert landscape features vast sagebrush flats, scattered juniper trees, and distant mountain views. The name "Stinkingwater" comes from local creeks, mountains, and the surrounding basin.

Among rockhounds, the Stinkingwater–Clear Creek area is best known for its beautifully preserved petrified golden oak dating to the Miocene Epoch (roughly 5–15 million years ago). At that time, the region was forested and looked very different from how it does today.

Volcanic eruptions buried the forest under ash and sediment, and over millions of years, mineral-rich groundwater replaced the wood, preserving distinct growth rings and grain.

Most of the surrounding land is managed by the BLM, but the collecting area at Clear Creek is on private land. At the time of our visit, access and collection were not prohibited. To help keep this site open, always pack out all trash.

Stinkingwater Rockhounding

This site is known for yellow and cream-colored petrified golden oak. Many pieces also display shades of red, brown, gray, and black, often with strong contrast between growth rings and clear wood grain.

The most prized finds are bright yellow golden oak specimens. This material is very hard and takes an excellent polish, making it highly desirable for cutting, cabbing, and display.

Petrified wood here is much scarcer than it used to be. Decades of collecting have removed many of the easy-to-find pieces, so locating quality material now requires patience, careful searching, and time in the field. You can also find agate and jasper in the area, especially along the creek.

Some rockhounds report that the BLM filled several old collection pits years ago. Today, collecting is mainly done on the surface, as digging is limited. The best pieces are those that have naturally weathered out or were uncovered by earlier digging.

To increase your chances of success, slowly walk along the creek bed, nearby hillsides, flats, and dry washes, watching for exposed fragments or disturbed ground where material may be visible.

Know Before You Go

Prepare for the remote, rough conditions.

• Vehicle Requirements: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is required. Roads can become extremely muddy and impassable during wet weather.
• Supplies: Bring plenty of water, food, and other supplies, as there are no nearby services.
• Safety: This is an isolated high-desert environment with strong sun, wind, and wide temperature swings. Always let someone know your plans and expected return time.
• Weather: Conditions can change quickly. Avoid travel after storms and be prepared to turn back if road conditions deteriorate.

Camping here is primitive and dispersed, with no amenities. Most spots are small and level, either by Clear Creek with its shade trees or on the hilltop above the drop.

If you prefer to sleep in more comfortable conditions, both Burns and Hines offer affordable motels, hotels, and vacation rentals.

Lodging in Burns and Hines

Affordable vacation rentals for short- and long-term stays in Hines