Apache Mine: Calcite & Chrysocolla Rockhounding in Hidalgo County, New Mexico

Updated June 2026

Apache Mine is a mapped rockhounding spot in Hidalgo County, New Mexico. Reported finds include calcite, chrysocolla, malachite, turquoise. Below: coordinates, access notes, nearby spots, and trip-planning links.

Quick details

Access: Public area
County: Hidalgo County
State: New Mexico
Nearest road: NM 81
Coordinates: 31.84476, -108.30532

Geology at Apache Mine

This spot sits on ground mapped as shale and limestone that formed roughly 145 to 100 million years ago. Carbonate rock like this dissolves and weathers readily, so fresh road cuts, quarries, and creek exposures are typically the most productive ground.

Age: 145–100 Ma (Early Cretaceous)
Rock types: shale and limestone
Elevation: 4,750 ft

Geologic mapping via Macrostrat and the underlying state geological survey maps (CC BY 4.0). Bedrock at the surface can vary within a mapped unit.

Best time to visit Apache Mine

Best months: August to May. Typical highs run 93°F in midsummer and 57°F in midwinter, with winter lows near 24°F. Summer heat here is intense, so carry more water than you think you need and work the early morning.

Climate normals: NOAA 1991-2020 monthlies, HACHITA 1W station (6 mi away), adjusted for elevation.

Land & collecting status

Generally open to casual rockhounding

Most public-tagged spots sit on BLM, U.S. Forest Service, or other federal land where reasonable hand collecting of common rocks and minerals is allowed. Confirm posted rules and active mining claims before you dig.

Public-land rules vary by agency, season, and field office. The RockHoundR app pulls live BLM, USFS, NPS, and tribal overlays so you can see exactly which agency manages the ground at this spot.

Sources & verification

Spot details combine the public RockHoundR location dataset, normalized mineral labels, agency land-status checks in the app, and community submissions. Coordinates are approximate until verified in the field.

State guidance last verified: April 1, 2026

Rockhound State Park — Collection rules
BLM New Mexico
New Mexico Bureau of Geology and Mineral Resources
Community submissions reviewed against published agency rules

Found at Apache Mine

Each chip opens all spots that produce that material; the encyclopedia link opens the full ID and field guide.

Nearby rockhounding spots

Other rockhounding spots within driving distance of Apache Mine.

Apache Mine FAQ

Where is Apache Mine?+

Apache Mine is in Hidalgo County, New Mexico, at 31.84476, -108.30532. Nearest road: NM 81.

What rocks and minerals can you find at Apache Mine?+

Apache Mine is reported to produce Calcite, Chrysocolla, Malachite, Turquoise.

Is collecting allowed at Apache Mine?+

Generally open to casual rockhounding. Most public-tagged spots sit on BLM, U.S. Forest Service, or other federal land where reasonable hand collecting of common rocks and minerals is allowed. Confirm posted rules and active mining claims before you dig. Always confirm current rules with the managing agency before a trip.

What tools should I bring to Apache Mine?+

A rock hammer, gloves, and safety glasses are enough for oxidized copper ground. Look for green and blue staining on weathered rock and in old dump piles.

When is the best time to visit Apache Mine?+

The most comfortable months at Apache Mine are August to May. Summer heat here is intense, so carry more water than you think you need and work the early morning.

How do I get to Apache Mine?+

Open the directions link to navigate to 31.84476, -108.30532 in Google Maps. The nearest road is NM 81.

More rockhounding in New Mexico

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Open Apache Mine on the map

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