Where to Find Jasper in Utah

Utah jasper is widespread in the volcanic country of the southwest and the sedimentary uplands of the central state. Brian Head jasper, from the high plateau in Iron County, runs red, yellow, and brecciated with chalcedony banding in altered Tertiary rhyolite. The San Rafael Swell exposes red and yellow jasper float in the Morrison and Summerville formations along the swell's east flank. Mineral Mountains jasper in Beaver County turns up as brown and tan picture material weathered out of fault breccias. Most Utah jasper is hard, dense, and takes a high polish; surface pieces are often coated in caliche that washes off easily. The most productive ground is in Brian Head plateau (Iron County), San Rafael Swell flanks (Emery County), Mineral Mountains (Beaver County).

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

Brian Head plateau (Iron County) is the standout. Other strong ground includes San Rafael Swell flanks (Emery County), Mineral Mountains (Beaver County).