The Sunstone Public Collection Area is the only free public site in Oregon where visitors can collect sunstones for personal use. Managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), this unique site is located in the northern part of the Rabbit Basin in Warner Valley, 23 miles north of Plush. Established in 1970, the public collection area offers people the opportunity to gather these beautiful Oregon treasures.

Oregon Sunstone Uniqueness & Value

Designated as the state gem, Oregon Sunstone is a unique transparent or translucent feldspar that contains small copper inclusions, also known as Cuprian Labradorite Sunstone. Found exclusively in the high desert of Southeastern Oregon, this gem stands out for its shimmering, glitter-like effects known as schiller or aventurescence, caused by flat, reflective copper platelets.

The color is tied to their copper content. The red stone have the highest concentration of copper, over 200 parts per million (0.02%). Green stones contain about 100 parts per million (0.01%). Yellow specimens have around 20 parts per million (0.002%). Because of this high copper content, Oregon Sunstones are highly prized and often referred to as "Plush Diamonds."

The value of these sunstones is determined by their transparency, color, and the quality of their aventurescence. While colorless or light-yellow stones are relatively inexpensive, large, carved sunstones with intense green or red hues can fetch prices of over $10,000.

Oregon Sunstone Collection Area

This part of the Oregon high desert sits at an elevation of 4,650 feet. The public collection area is clearly marked with orange plastic and wooden posts, along with BLM signs at the corners. However, private mining claims are located nearby, so before collecting, ensure you are within the designated public area.

At the free collection site, you’ll mostly find small to medium-sized pale yellow sunstones. Tiny sparkling pieces are scattered across the surface, but for larger stones, you may need to venture farther from the main parking area. A road runs diagonally through the site, with a few spur roads and trails branching off.

You can use basic tools like a shovel, geology pick, and screwdrivers. Minerals are easily separated from the soil by sieving through a quarter-inch screen, and some sunstones can be hand-extracted from partially decomposed rock. Remember to fill in your holes after digging. Mechanized equipment is not permitted.

If you’re seeking colored sunstones, consider visiting one of the nearby commercial mines. Dust Devil, Spectrum Sunstone, and Double Eagle Mines offer various pay-to-dig options.

The area, covered in low-growing sagebrush and desert grass, experiences extreme seasonal temperature changes, so plan accordingly. The best way to enjoy the area is to stay for a few days and fully experience this incredible rock-collecting site. Camping is allowed for free within the collection area, where you’ll find a pit toilet and picnic tables for visitors' convenience.

Camping is permitted within the boundaries of the Sunstone Public Collection Area.

In addition, some nearby pay-to-dig mines offer accommodation options including camping, cabins, teepee, or sleeping trails.

However, if camping isn’t your preference, you can find accommodation options in Plush, located 23 miles away, or in Lakeview, 65 miles away.

Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay in Plush

Lodging in Lakeview

Know Before You Go

The Rabbit Basin is a remote desert area, so proper planning is essential. There are no services—including gas stations, water, or cell phone reception—within a 20-mile radius.

• Be prepared for extreme heat during summer months. With no shade available, it's important to carry plenty of water and limit time in direct sunlight to avoid dehydration and heatstroke.
• Don’t rely on Google Maps for navigation; use the provided directions below to avoid getting lost.
• The area features rough roads, so it’s recommended to use a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for safe travel.

Check desert safety tips before heading out.

Open: Year-round; Best time: May-October
Managed by: Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

Rocks & Minerals: Oregon Sunstones
Tools: Shovel, geology pick, screen

Amenities: Pit toilet, picnic tables
Activities: Rockhounding, camping, hiking, and wildlife observing

Day-use fees: None
Road access: Any vehicles when roads are dry; Unpaved roads can become impassable in wet conditions even for 4WD vehicles; Contact BLM Lakeview District for current weather and road conditions

Elevation: 4,650 ft (1,417 m)

Oregon Sunstone Public Collection Area is located:

• 65 miles northeast of Lakeview
• 108 miles southwest of Burns
• 336 miles southeast of Portland.