WD Chert Dig

Tucked amongst the trees this spot has produced an abundance of smaller red agates in chert nodules similar to what is found at Tepee Canyon.

When to visit: Spring, Summer, Fall.

What you can find: Tepee Canyon style agate, jasper

What to bring: Rock hammer, chisels, pick axe, buckets, backpack, water, snacks.

Where to stay: The area north of US HWY 16 is off limits to camping. The area South of the highway is open to dispersed camping. The town of Custer is 25 minutes West on HWY 16 and has many hotels and campgrounds.

Getting there: From Custer, South Dakota travel west on HWY. 16 / Mt. Rushmore Rd. approximately 15.1 miles. Turn right onto Mud Springs Rd and drive 2.8 miles until you reach Antelope Ridge Rd. Turn left on Antelope Ridge Rd and drive about 400 feet to reach a good place to park on your left (Site A).

(Site A: 43°45’36.2″N 103°51’37.2″W)
(Site B: 43°45’35.7″N 103°51’45.7″W)

Rockhounding

After a short and easy hike through the woods you will arrive at the WD Chert Dig Site. This area has produced a good amount of smaller tepee style agates in chert nodules. Agates here can be found by simply looking over the surface scratches for missed pieces. Finding fresh ground and digging through the shallow dirt has also produced a good number of agates. Towards the lower end of the dig there is a layer of hard limestone that contains chert nodules, some of which have agate. 

Gallery

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