Desert Rose Mine
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Pay-to-dig mine on private property near Bingham. Access via Blanchard Rock Shop on Highway 380, approximately 3 miles west of Bingham at mile marker 30. Pay a small digger's fee at the shop to access the mine site behind it. Surface collecting and digging in tailing piles allowed. Good for rockhounds of all experience levels. Produces tabular barite crystals and cubic fluorite specimens.
🪨 What You Can Find Here
Fluorite
Colorful halide mineral that often forms cubic crystals. The Illinois-Kentucky fluorite district was once the world's leading producer. Also found in New York and Tennessee.
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Calcite
Common but versatile carbonate mineral that forms in many crystal habits. Found in geodes, cave deposits, and veins throughout the US.
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Galena
Lead sulfide mineral with metallic luster, the primary ore of lead. Found in Missouri, Wisconsin, Illinois, and New York's historic mining districts.
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Barite
Heavy barium sulfate mineral that forms distinctive rosette and crystal formations. Oklahoma's Rose Rock Beds produce world-famous barite roses.
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⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Desert Rose Mine with the right equipment.
Rock Hammer
The most essential rockhounding tool. Choose a hammer with both a flat striking face and a pointed pick end.
Typical: $25-45
Safety Glasses
Mandatory protective gear. Rock chips fly unpredictably when hammering.
Typical: $10-20
Chisel Set
Cold chisels in 3-4 sizes for precise extraction from matrix rock.
Typical: $15-30
Geologist's Pick
A heavier crack hammer for splitting hard rock. Essential for hard rock mining areas.
Typical: $35-60
Sifting Screen
Stackable mesh screens for sifting gravel and dirt. Essential for gem and fossil hunting.
Typical: $20-40
UV Flashlight
Long-wave UV light for finding fluorescent minerals and Yooperlites.
Typical: $15-35