• Richardson’s Rock Ranch is known for its world-famous thunderegg deposits
Located northeast of Madras, Richardson’s Rock Ranch is known for its extensive, world-famous deposits of mineral-filled nodules known as thundereggs. Among the ranch’s most prized finds is the Priday Plume Agate, featuring brilliant red and yellow plumes encased in a transparent matrix.
In addition to local treasures, the ranch’s rock shop offers a diverse selection of geological finds from both Oregon and around the world, making it a must-visit destination for rock and mineral enthusiasts.
Opened in 1974, this family-owned ranch has been a central attraction in Central Oregon for decades, particularly popular for its digging opportunities. While public digging is no longer allowed in the beds, visitors can still purchase freshly dug thundereggs from the ranch’s beds, including those from the famous Priday Agate Beds.
The shop also features an impressive array of rough and polished stones, fossils, petrified wood, jewelry, and other products made from semi-precious stones, making it a true oasis for rockhounds.
Richardson’s Rock Ranch Camping, Lodging, & Vacation Rentals
Camping is not allowed at the ranch, but nearby accommodations are available in Madras, just 14 miles away.
Richardson’s Rock Ranch | Facts
Open: Year-round; May through September - 9am-5pm daily; October through April - 9am-5pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday
Managed by: Private ranch
Rocks & Minerals: Thundereggs and Ledge Agates
Tools: No digging is allowed
Amenities: Rock shop, restroom
Distance from the parking: Short
Road access: Any passenger vehicle
Elevation: 1,735 ft (529 m)
Richardson’s Rock Ranch is located:
- 14 miles northeast of Madras
- 57 miles northeast of Bend
- 129 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to Richardson’s Rock Ranch
From Madras,
- Go 11 miles north on US-97 to Old US-97 (Richardson's Ranch signboard)
- Turn right onto Old US-97 and drive 1.9 miles to Hay Creek Road
- Turn right onto Hay Creek Road and continue 0.9 mile to the destination on the left.
Phone: 541-475-2680
richardsonrockranch.com
This is David Reno in Hector Arkansas. I am a Disabled Vietnam Era Veteran looking to learn to polish stones.
My pockets don’t run deep but I have lowered my standards to asking for a handout.
I would like to have some Agate to slab and tumble. Un-sellable, tailings, any thing would be great.
Can you help me in this endeavor or point me in the right direction?
Thanks
Hello, Probably you need to contact to a rock club in your area.
Richardson’s rock ranch no longer offers digging to the public; you can only buy what they have dug up, which to me takes the fun out of it. Know before you go