Where to Find Jasper in New Mexico

New Mexico jasper turns up in the same volcanic country that produces the state's agate. The Black Range and the Mogollon Mountains in Catron and Sierra counties yield red, yellow, and brecciated jasper in welded tuff, often with banded chalcedony rims. The Apache Creek area produces a brown picture jasper with dendritic inclusions, and the Pinos Altos and Burro Mountains add ribbon and stripe jasper in old mining-district roadcuts. The Rockhound State Park area south of Deming is the most-visited locality, and the surrounding BLM ground holds float jasper in numerous quality grades. The most productive ground is in Black Range and Mogollon Mountains (Catron County), Apache Creek picture jasper (Catron County), Rockhound State Park BLM ground (Luna County).

Casual hand collection of common rocks and minerals like jasper is allowed on most BLM and U.S. Forest Service land in New Mexico, with daily and annual limits set by the local field office. National parks, most state parks, and tribal land are off-limits. Always confirm rules before a trip.

Black Range and Mogollon Mountains (Catron County) is the standout. Other strong ground includes Apache Creek picture jasper (Catron County), Rockhound State Park BLM ground (Luna County).