Rockhounding, also referred to as rock hunting and mineral collecting, is the hobby of going out in the field to look for and collect interesting rocks.

I am writing a series of blogs that deal with this hobby. This series is mostly geared towards the beginner or hobbyist, not the commercial collector. But even a seasoned rockhounder might pick up some new tricks, so read on!

You can check out my previous blogs here:

https://www.oakrocks.net/blog/rockhounding/

https://www.oakrocks.net/blog/map-skills-when-rockhounding/

We talked previous about what to take on your trip. But one thing I forgot to mention is your common sense and good manners! 

Lots of great rockhounding places have been closed to the public due to the poor behavior of some. 

Careless, lazy, ignorant or just plain rotten people can ruin the fun for everyone.

The most important rule is to never go on private land unless you have permission from the owner. This includes claimed sites and dump piles of mines. Don’t go into dangerous areas, underground or abandoned mine sites, or even deserted cabins. There should be a clear understanding of where you are going and what you plan to do. And take responsibility for yourself, especially if something goes wrong!

Here is a list of other things to consider while you are out exploring and having fun:

• 1.Before you venture out read my guide to the rules for rockhounding here:   https://www.oakrocks.net/rockhounding-rules/
• 2.Follow the leave no trace rules. If you have trash-pack it out. Please do not litter. If you dig a hole-bury it back in.
• 3.Never cut through a fence! If you open a gate-close it. Do not close gates that you find open, they may be that way for a reason.
• 4.Don’t trespass. In some states land does not have to be posted or even fenced to be considered trespassing.
• 5.Be mindful of fire. If you have a campfire, make sure it is contained, and completely extinguished. Check for dragging chains. Be careful driving your vehicle on tall, dry grass. Crush your cigarettes and pack them out.
• 6.Be especially mindful of contamination. Don’t dump things in or near waterways.
• 7.Don’t mess with, chase, feed, or attempt to pet wild animals or herd animals.
• 8.Try to stay on roads or trails. Don’t drive in mud, soft dirt or unsafe areas. This is important if you have an all-terrain vehicle too. Be aware of fragile ecosystems.
• 9.Don’t mess with things that aren’t yours. This can include farming equipment or tools, trail markers, cattle pens, etc.
• 10.For your own protection, report any dangerous activities, or vandalism you see. There are occasionally bad characters in the hills, avoid them at all cost.
• 11.Never destroy something just because. Some cacti and plants are federally protected. And please don’t spray paint anything.
• 12.Stay away from artifacts and vertebrate fossils, they are federally illegal to collect or destroy.
• 13.If you carry a gun-KNOW HOW TO USE IT! Take a safety or concealed carry classes. Practice at a range. Make sure you aren’t going into areas where it may be illegal to carry. Carry the gun for protection-don’t target practice on trees, signs, etc. And be mindful of hunting/hunters, hunting seasons, etc. If you are caught with a gun and no hunting permit the officer may assume you are hunting without a license.
• 14.Don’t be greedy. Leave some rocks behind for the next collector!!

Next month we will talk about your safety and hazards that you may encounter when rockhounding!

Happy hunting!