Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch: Amethyst & Citrine Rockhounding in Blanco County, Texas

Updated June 2026

Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch is a mapped rockhounding spot in Blanco County, Texas. Reported finds include amethyst, citrine. Below: coordinates, access notes, nearby spots, and trip-planning links.

Quick details

Access: Public area
County: Blanco County
State: Texas
Coordinates: 30.30667, -98.44552

Geology at Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch

This spot sits on Wilberns Formation showing San Saba Member, mapped as dolostone that formed roughly 495 to 485 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.

Mapped unit: Wilberns Formation showing San Saba Member
Age: 495–485 Ma (Furongian)
Rock types: dolostone
Elevation: 1,310 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 Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch

Best months: September to May. Typical highs run 95°F in midsummer and 62°F in midwinter, with winter lows near 34°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, JOHNSON CITY 2N station (2 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

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
Bureau of Economic Geology — Texas geology
Big Bend National Park — Rules
Community submissions reviewed against published agency rules

Found at Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch

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 Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch.

Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch FAQ

Where is Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch is in Blanco County, Texas, at 30.30667, -98.44552.

What rocks and minerals can you find at Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch is reported to produce Amethyst, Citrine.

Is collecting allowed at Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

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 Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

A rock hammer, a small pry bar, gloves, and safety glasses cover most crystal ground. A screen helps in loose pocket soil, and newspaper protects points on the way out.

When is the best time to visit Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

The most comfortable months at Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch are September 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 Amethyst Hill on Althaus Ranch?+

Open the directions link to navigate to 30.30667, -98.44552 in Google Maps. Some spots are remote, so check road conditions before driving out.

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