Black Hills Rockhound Area

This rockhound area makes a great day adventure for rock collectors. The principal attraction for rock collectors here is fire agate. Fire agate is a relatively new gemstone, only identified and formally recognized in the 1930s.

It has the color play of precious opal with gem quality reds, greens, and blues. The desert regions of Arizona, southern California, and central Mexico are the only areas of the world where fire agate is known to occur. Although its origin is unknown, it is always associated with volcanic deposits.

The site is open for digging by the public without fees or permits. Camping throughout the area is allowed for up to two weeks. Black Hills Rockhound Area is open year-round, but the summers can be hot and dry with temperatures reaching above 100 degrees Fahrenheit.