Warm Springs Reservoir, located about 55 miles east of Burns, is one of Oregon’s notable rockhounding destinations. The rugged hills and sagebrush-covered landscape surrounding the roughly 4,600-acre reservoir offer a scenic setting for collectors.

The area is known for a variety of rocks and minerals, including agate, jasper, plume agate, petrified wood, and fossil leaves. Land ownership and management can vary around the reservoir, so check the land status and collecting rules before searching.

Dirt roads south of Highway 20 provide access to several areas around the reservoir. Some areas are relatively easy to reach, while others require hiking or a high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle. More remote areas can offer different rocks and may be worth exploring when road conditions allow.

Warm Springs Reservoir Rockhounding

The land surrounding Warm Springs Reservoir is home to collectible rocks and minerals.

Surface collecting is often productive, with many specimens scattered across the ground. For those seeking more variety or larger pieces, digging may reveal additional material.

Rockhounds can find a range of materials here, including agate, plume agate, jasper, petrified wood, fossil leaves, and Apache tears. Most agates are white, gray, or mossy, while jasper tends to appear in bright red, yellow, or brown hues. Petrified wood is commonly found in shades of brown or brick red.

The public lands around the reservoir cover a large area.

As you travel the loop road south of Highway 20, stop at any promising area, especially dry washes or exposed slopes.

We provided here several approximate spots where we stopped. These locations are meant as starting points rather than exact collecting sites.

Explore the surrounding terrain, especially dry washes, gravelly areas, and eroded hillsides, where erosion can expose new material over time.

A geology pick or small shovel can be helpful, as many specimens are partially buried.

Know Before You Go

Prepare for the remote and rugged terrain at Warm Springs Reservoir.

• Vehicle Requirements: Use a 4WD or ATV for rough roads.
• Supplies: Bring water, snacks, tools, and a map. No services exist nearby.
• Safety: Watch for rattlesnakes and bring boots for protection.
• Weather: Roads become muddy after rain. Park and hike if the road looks bad.
• Respect the Land: Refill holes after digging. This area supports cattle ranching.

Primitive camping is permitted on BLM land, but amenities are minimal, so pack all essentials.

The closest campground is Chukar Park Recreation Site, 20 miles north on the bank of the Malheur River. It has 19 campsites for tents and RVs. Amenities include vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, fire rings, and a boat ramp. The campground is open year-round and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more comfortable accommodations, lodging is available in Burns, 57 miles away.

Lodging in Hines-Burns

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long-term stays near Burns