The Rocky Mountains are an ideal spot for hunting rocks, minerals, and gemstones. Rockhounding is a popular activity in Colorado, but identifying the best areas for rock collecting and knowing where it’s prohibited can be challenging.
In Colorado, you can collect rocks for personal use from certain places, but some areas restrict any rock removal. Continue reading to discover more about rock collecting in Colorado and get some tips on where to search. But before you head out with a hammer in hand, it’s crucial to understand the legalities and responsible practices surrounding rock collecting in Colorado’s National Forests.
Is It Legal To Collect Rocks In Colorado?
Yes, you can collect rocks in Colorado, but there are rules regarding the types of rocks you can collect, the quantity, and the locations from which you can remove them.
You can’t collect rocks for resale, but you can keep them for personal use. The details of what you can and can’t collect are explained in the gallery below.
Can I Remove Rocks From A Colorado National Forest?
No, removing rocks or stones from Colorado National Forest is prohibited. It is also a serious offense to remove rocks from any of Colorado’s National Parks.
U.S. Forest Service Laws and Regulations
Recreational rockhounding and rock collecting on National Forest lands require a permit. This includes collecting rocks, minerals (including petrified wood), and fossils. Permit fees vary based on the type and amount of material, the collection site’s location, and the material’s intended use. Collected materials cannot be sold commercially and are for personal use only.
For small quantities of lapidary minerals (such as agates, chalcedony, geodes, jaspers, and other common rocks) and petrified wood, a free use permit is required. Collecting larger quantities of materials like boulders, sand, and gravel for landscaping or similar purposes may require a fee permit based on the amount collected. Some forest areas, including Mt. St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, are not open to rock collection.
Source: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/giffordpinchot/passes-permits/forestproducts/?cid=FSBDEV3_004994
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