• White Fir Springs is a public rockhounding site
• The area produces unique jasper-filled thundereggs
White Fir Springs, located in the Ochoco National Forest, is a public site renowned for its unique jasper-filled thundereggs. This site is featured on the Central Oregon Rockhounding Map which, available for purchase, and is one of many areas in Central Oregon designated for recreational rock collecting.
The area is known for producing thundereggs with jasper cores in shades of yellow, beige, brown, reddish, or purple. Some specimens may have multiple cores, with tiny inclusions of quartz crystals or rhyolite infusion. The thundereggs typically range in size from 1.5 to 5 inches.
The jasper-filled thundereggs at White Fir Springs are distinct from the agate-filled thundereggs found in other parts of Oregon. The most sought-after specimens have vibrant cores with interesting inclusions, and some even resemble materials from Bruneau Canyon in Idaho.
Despite its popularity over the years, White Fir Springs remains a productive site for rockhounds. When you arrive, look for pits where others have been digging, or start a new one yourself. The overburden is only one to two feet thick, and the soil is relatively soft, making it easy to dig with a shovel or pick. A hammer and chisel may also be useful for freeing thundereggs from the host rock.
The site is bordered by Mill Creek Wilderness on the north, where rock collecting is not allowed. Check Rock Collecting Rules and Regulations in the US National Forests.
The surrounding pine forest offers a beautiful setting for rockhounding and camping. Camping is allowed in the Ochoco National Forest. Also, White Rock Campground is located nearby.
Please remember to keep the area clean by packing out all your trash.
White Fir Springs: Camping, Lodging & Vacation Rentals
Camping is permitted in the Ochoco National Forest, and White Rock Campground, located just 2 miles away, offers a convenient, first-come, first-served option. The campground is equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and a vault toilet.
For those preferring alternative accommodations, the city of Prineville, 27 miles southwest of White Fir Springs, offers a variety of affordable lodging options and vacation rentals.
Affordable vacation rentals for short and long term stay at Prineville
White Fir Springs | Facts
Open: Best time: May-October
Managed by: US Forest Service - Ochoco National Forest
Rocks & Minerals: Jasper thundereggs
Tools: Shovel, geology pick, hammer, and chisel
Activities: Rockhounding, camping, and wildlife observing
Road access: A high-clearance 4WD vehicle is suggested
Day-use fees: None
Elevation: 5,000 ft (1,524 m)
White Fir Springs is located:
- 27 miles northeast of Prineville
- 80 miles northeast of Bend
- 219 miles southeast of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Directions to White Fir Springs
From Prineville,
- Take Highway 26 east and drive for about 20 miles to milepost 41
- After milepost 41 go 0.4 miles to Forest Road 3350 (Wildcat Mountain Road)
- Turn left onto NF 3350 and follow 4.9 miles (always take a left fork) to a dirt road NF 010 on the right (Look for signs "White Fir Springs Agate Beds")
- You can park your car here and hike uphill 0.1 miles to the collection site.