New here?
New to rockhounding and don't know where to start? Not to worry, we will show you the ropes. Click below to head over to our "Getting Started" guide
Getting StartedRocks & Minerals In Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania rockhounding maps to hunt for crystals, gemstones, minerals, and ores. Pennsylvania's geology provides ample opportunities for rockhounds to find minerals such as quartz crystals, pyrite, and various types of fossils. With its rich mining history and expansive landscape, Pennsylvania offers unique collecting experiences, from the Centralia coal region to the famous St. Clair fossil locality.
Recommended Rockhounding Tools
Discover the perfect tools for your next adventure-whether you're a beginner or seasoned prospector. Find gear tailored to your location, skill level, and the gems you're hunting.
See RecommendationsPlease always bring appropriate attire and do research before venturing out to rock hunt and crystal hunt. Also, be sure to verify that the location you want to hunt at is available for public access. Rockhounding.org does our best to verify, but it is your responsibility to verify as well because sometimes things change. We are not liable for any actions you take from the information you find on this site.
Snacks & Hydration
Energy Bars
Stay energized with the best energy bars for your rockhounding adventures.
Our Favorites
Must Have Rockhounding Tools
Keeping accurate records of Rockhounding & Gemstone Hunting Locations is a community effort! Know of a good spot that is missing from our maps? Feel free to submit it below. Thank you for your contributions to the rockhounding community!
Popular Rocks, Crystals, & Gemstones In Pennsylvania
-
Quartz CrystalsQuartz crystals are abundant in Pennsylvania, and they can be found in various locations throughout the state, including the Appalachian Mountains.
Read More -
Trilobite FossilsTrilobite fossils, ancient marine arthropods, can be found in the limestone deposits of Pennsylvania, particularly in the central and eastern parts of the state.
Read More -
PyritePyrite, also known as fool's gold, can be found in various locations throughout Pennsylvania, including coal mines and limestone quarries.
Read More -
CalciteCalcite, a common carbonate mineral, can be found in many locations throughout Pennsylvania, especially in limestone-rich areas.
Read More -
FluoriteFluorite, a colorful mineral often used for lapidary purposes, can be found in various locations in Pennsylvania, such as the Cornwall Iron Mines.
Read More -
SeleniteSelenite, a variety of gypsum, can be found in several locations in Pennsylvania, including the Susquehanna River area and clay deposits.
Read More
Popular Rock Hunting Areas In Pennsylvania
-
Centralia Coal Mine FireCentralia, Pennsylvania is home to an underground coal mine fire that has been burning since 1962. The site is an interesting location for rockhounding, where visitors can find unique rocks and minerals formed by the heat of the fire.
Read More -
French Creek State Park
French Creek State Park in Pennsylvania is known for its diverse geology and the opportunity to find various rocks, minerals, and fossils, such as quartz, feldspar, and trilobites.
Read More -
Ringtown Valley
Ringtown Valley in Pennsylvania is a popular spot for rockhounding, where visitors can find various minerals such as serpentine, chrysotile, and talc.
Read More -
Jessup
Jessup, Pennsylvania is an interesting location for rockhounding, with various rock formations and minerals, including anthracite coal, which is a unique form of coal found in the region.
Read More -
Red Hill Fossil Site
Red Hill Fossil Site near North Bend, Pennsylvania, is a famous location for finding Devonian-aged fossils, such as early fish and various plant fossils.
Read More -
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary in Pennsylvania offers a unique opportunity for rockhounding, where visitors can find various rocks and minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and mica, along the trails and overlooks.
Read More
Geology of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania's geologic history dates back over a billion years, with the formation of Precambrian rocks. The state's diverse geology is attributed to multiple orogenies during the Paleozoic Era, including the Taconic, Acadian, and Alleghenian, which contributed to the formation of the Appalachian Mountains.
Pennsylvania is known for its rich fossil history and abundant coal deposits, which formed during the Carboniferous Period. The state also hosts the famous Pennsylvania Grand Canyon, a massive gorge carved by the Susquehanna River and shaped by glacial activity during the last Ice Age.