Missouri Laws for Rock Hunting
Missouri Laws regarding rock collecting vary from location to location. Whether you are heading to a State Park, Historic Site, or National forest, it’s important to understand the local regulations.
Missouri Laws when Rockhounding in State Parks
Rock hunting is not allowed in Missouri State Parks. In fact, moving rocks is against the Department of Natural Resources State Regulations. According to the Missouri State Parks Facebook page, rock collecting and rock flipping can be devastating to the environment. Amphibians, reptiles, and insect vital to our ecosystem call these rocks home. Moving a rock can even disrupt the moisture content of these creatures burrows.
In addition to not moving rocks, there are a few more important rules to follow in Missouri State Parks. You should not remove plants, animals, downed timber, relics or artifacts from these protected spaces.
In the future, if you choose to rock hunt in Missouri State Parks, remember that rocks are for viewing only and should not be disturbed.
Sites that fall under these state laws and regulations include popular destinations such as Ha Ha Tonka State Park, Meramec State Park, and Table Rock Lake State Park. Also covered by these protections are Missouri Historic Sites such as Arrow Rock State Historic Site and the Nathan and Olive Boone Homestead.
For more information, visit the Missouri State Parks Website.
Missouri Laws for Rockhounding in Mark Twain
Rock collecting is allowed on Mark Twain National Forest Lands with a few exceptions. You cannot collect rocks in Wilderness Areas, caves, or leased areas. Rockhounds should keep their collecting to a “reasonable” amount. The Forest Service defines this as an amount that can fit in your pocket or large rock sample bag. 
You may not use tools on Mark Twain land other than rock hammers or garden trowels. This rule is to reduce human impact on the forest floor. You also cannot pan for gold with sluice boxes or dig in stream banks. River and stream ecology is a delicate balance.
If you want to rockhound with a group, please limit group size to 25 people or less. Most small amateur rock clubs or school groups would not need a permit. When making plans, call your local District Office for more information.
Above all, remember that Mark Twain lands are not contiguous. It is easy to find yourself on private property. Familiarize yourself with the Purple Paint Law and other state trespassing laws.
Finally, when in doubt, contact the appropriate Mark Twain District Office.
Rockhounding on Private Property
The most sure-fire way to stay on the right side of the law is to rockhound on private property. There are many locations in Missouri that allow digging on private property. You can also check with local rock clubs for future group digs.
Author: Celeste
Rocks!