• Crane Creek Thunderegg Bed is a remote destination in the Fremont National Forest
Crane Creek Thunderegg Bed is nestled deep within the Fremont National Forest, just a short distance from Lakeview.
Accessing this location can be challenging. The forest road leading to the digging area crosses Crane Creek multiple times and may be washed out in certain sections. A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is strongly recommended to reach this remote site.
The first few miles of Crane Creek Road are usually drivable with the right vehicle, but the last 1.8 miles may be too rough to pass. You may need to walk or use an ATV. Always check the road and make sure your vehicle can handle it.
While driving along the creek toward the thunderegg deposit, take time to explore the gravel bars. The area can yield a variety of materials, including agate, jasper, and petrified wood.
The main digging area is located approximately 130 yards northeast of the northern edge of Thunderegg Lake. Evidence of previous rockhounding activity is visible in the form of numerous pits scattered across the hillside.
Reaching the thundereggs is relatively straightforward. You can either dig a new hole or work within existing pits by digging deeper or expanding along the edges.
This site is known for producing nodules filled with blue agate, sometimes containing small quartz crystals. The outer surface of the thundereggs typically has a reddish-brown coloration.
Crane Creek: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
Primitive camping is permitted on nearby public lands, making it easy to stay close to the site.
Goose Lake State Recreation Area, located about 15 miles south of Lakeview, is open from April through October on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground offers tent sites, electrical hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers.
If you prefer more comfort, consider lodging in Lakeview.
Lodging is available in Lakeview
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Lakeview
Crane Creek Thunderegg Bed | Facts
Open: Year-round, the best time: May-October
Managed by: U.S. Forest Service
Rocks & Minerals: Thundereggs, agate, jasper, and petrified wood
Tools: Geology pick, hammer, shovel
Activities: Rockhounding, hiking
Distance from the parking: 3.6 miles out-and-back
Road access: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is recommended
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 6,000 ft (1,830 m)
Crane Creek Digging Area is located:
- 9 miles southeast of Lakeview
- 252 miles southeast of Eugene.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Crane Creek Thunderegg Bed
From Lakeview,
- Travel 5 miles south on Highway US-395 to Crane Creek Road
- Turn left onto Crane Creek Road and travel for about 2 miles. On the fork, stay right following the creek (If the road becomes impassable for your vehicle, park your car and hike for about 1.8 miles)
- Continue on Crane Creek Road 0.5 miles to Forest Road 15 on the right
- Bear right and drive for about 0.7 miles to the fork. Take Forest Road 14 on the left, which follows the creek, and continue for about 0.5 miles to the digging area.
Phone (Fremont-Winema National Forest): 541-947-2151
fs.usda.gov