Who it’s for For those who like beautiful day drives and laid-back outdoor activities, rockhounding may just be your new favorite pastime. Richardson’s Rock Ranch is open during the summer seven days a week, 7am to 5pm. Credit: Keely Damara
Thundereggs—named for their spherical shapes and often colorful, agate-filled interiors—are plentiful in the volcanic ash layers common throughout the region. Guests dig for thundereggs and pay for their haul by the pound. Credit: Keely Damara
Directions Drive 11 miles north of Madras and turn right at Mile Post 81. Follow the signs and take the dirt road to the right, past a few barns and to the Richardson’s Ranch office. It’s hard to miss—quartz and rocks the size of your head are on display in front of the building. Credit: Keely Damara
Gear needed Buckets and rock hammers are available to borrow on a first come, first serve basis. These are the only tools you’ll need to get started. Credit: Keely Damara
Gear needed Buckets and rock hammers are available to borrow on a first come, first serve basis. These are the only tools you’ll need to get started. Credit: Keely Damara
When I pulled past the red barns and into the driveway of the Richardson’s Rock Ranch office, I was greeted by peacocks, chickens, roosters and a few quail scurrying across the road. Credit: Keely Damara
It felt like a magical farm in the middle of nowhere—with a ton of colorful rocks and quartz carefully laid out in front, like a yard sale. Credit: Keely Damara

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