• 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 as the forest road leading to the digging area crosses Crane Creek multiple times and may be washed out in certain sections. Therefore, a 4WD high-clearance vehicle is essential for reaching this hidden area.
The first few miles of Crane Creek Road are accessible with the appropriate vehicle, but the final 1.8 miles may become impassable. Therefore, it becomes necessary to cover this distance on foot or by using an ATV. It's crucial to be mindful of road conditions and understand the limitations of your vehicle.
While driving along the creek to the thunderegg deposit, check the creek gravel. Here you can find a variety of minerals, including agate, jasper, and petrified wood.
The thunderegg digging area is situated approximately 130 yards northeast of the northern edge of Thunderegg Lake. Evidence of previous rock collectors can be seen in pits on the hill.
Getting to the prized stones is relatively straightforward; you have the option to dig a new hole or utilize existing ones, either digging deeper or around the edges.
This area produces nodules filled with blue agate, occasionally containing small quartz crystals. The external layer of these thundereggs is characterized by a reddish-brown hue.
Crane Creek: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
Primitive camping is permitted across BLM land.
Goose Lake State Recreation Area, situated 15 miles south of Lakeview, welcomes visitors from April to October on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground provides tent sites, electrical hookups, flush toilets, and hot showers.
For a distinctive camping experience, the Junipers Reservoir RV Resort, a working cattle ranch located 10 miles west of Lakeview, offers seasonal RV and tent camping. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes, this resort provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
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: US 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