Where to Find Jasper in Oregon

Oregon jasper is concentrated on the Owyhee plateau and along the Deschutes drainage, with secondary fields scattered across the southeast desert. Morrisonite, from the Owyhee River canyon, is among the most prized picture jaspers in the world, with brown, blue, and cream landscape patterns set in a hard chalcedony matrix. The Biggs jasper field east of The Dalles produces tan-brown picture jasper with dendritic inclusions, while Bruneau jasper from the Idaho-Oregon border slips into the same color family. Closer to Madras, the Priday and Richardson Ranch beds yield green and red jaspers alongside their thundereggs. The most productive ground is in Owyhee River canyon (Morrisonite, Malheur County), Biggs jasper field (Sherman County), Priday and Richardson Ranch (Jefferson County).

Casual hand collection of common rocks and minerals like jasper is allowed on most BLM and U.S. Forest Service land in Oregon, 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.

Owyhee River canyon (Morrisonite, Malheur County) is the standout. Other strong ground includes Biggs jasper field (Sherman County), Priday and Richardson Ranch (Jefferson County).