Kilbourne Hole
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Large volcanic maar crater in southeast New Mexico, approximately 40 miles from both Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX. Contains xenoliths of peridot (gem-quality olivine) in basalt bombs. Collecting involves splitting basalt boulders to find peridot grains. Requires 4WD or high-clearance AWD vehicle for sandy desert roads. The crater is visible from satellite imagery with dirt roads running along the rim for easy access to collecting areas.
🪨 What You Can Find Here
Peridot
Lime-green olivine gemstone. New Mexico's Peridot Mesa on the San Carlos Apache Reservation is one of the world's largest peridot sources.
Also found at:
Olivine
Green magnesium iron silicate mineral. Hawaii's green sand beaches and Arizona's San Carlos Apache Reservation are known US sources.
Also found at:
Basalt
Common volcanic rock forming much of the ocean floor and volcanic landscapes. Hawaii's volcanic geology is primarily basaltic, containing olivine and other minerals.
Also found at:
📍 Nearby Locations in New Mexico
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Peridot deposits in the Estancia Valley. The Buell Park area produces gem-quality peridot crystals.
New Mexico Turquoise Beds (Cerrillos)
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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 ...
⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Kilbourne Hole 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