Oregon’s state tree is the Douglas Fir, its state animal is the beaver, and its state nut is the hazelnut. All of these are pretty commonly-known facts for Oregonians, but did you know that we have a state rock? Thundereggs are incredible geologic gems, and Oregon is the most popular place to find them in the U.S.. Find your own at this little rock ranch in Madras.

Thundereggs are some of the most amazing things you'll find in Oregon. These little gems are typically the size of a grapefruit, and when you cut them open, you'll find a beautiful treasure inside.
Lech Darski/Wikimedia
While they look somewhat similar to geodes, thundereggs are not at all the same. Geodes are rocks that have hollows inside that often contain crystals; thundereggs are actual geological structures.
Richardson Rock Ranch
They were formed by rhyolite lava, which covered this area about 60 million years ago. As water bubbled up between the gaps in the porous lava rock, it deposited quartz and minerals that combined to create these one-of-a-kind geologic wonders that now lie beneath the earth's surface, waiting to be found.
Kim Luttrell/Google
Ready to find your own thundereggs? Head to Richardson Rock Ranch in Madras. This place is a working cattle ranch that has rocks from all over the world, but you can dig for thundereggs in its thunderegg beds.
Gloria C/Tripadvisor

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The gift shop has all kinds of beautiful rocks, including plenty of thundereggs. You can just stop in and buy one, but where's the fun in that? For a real adventure, dig for your own.
Dave Wester/Google
Depending on your skill level and strength, the folks at Richard's Rock Ranch will send you to one of six different thunderegg beds. You'll need to travel on a eight-mile-long dirt road to reach your dig spot.
Amy35394/Tripadvisor
They'll give you a bucket and pick, show you what thundereggs look like and how to dig for them, and send you on your way! In rainy weather, the digging is closed due to the muddy conditions of the road.
Digging can be hard work, but it's also tons of fun! Come prepared to get dirty, and make sure to bring along plenty of sunscreen and drinking water.
Baker_Bay_Bandits/Tripadvisor
Soon, you'll have a bucket full of thundereggs. You'll take them back to the shop and pay $1.50 per pound for your treasures, and there's a $15 minimum.
Baker_Bay_Bandits/Tripadvisor
If you'd like, the shop will cut your thundereggs in half for you. Depending on the timing of your visit, they can cut them while you wait, or you can come back the next day to pick them up. Richardsons Rock Ranch will also ship them for you, if you'd like.
How many thunderggs will you find? Pay a visit to the ranch for a rock hounding adventure like no other. It's open March through October from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., but you must arrive by 2:30 p.m. to dig.
Brigg Turner/Google

Do you have some thundereggs of your own? We’d love to see your photos! For more information about Richardson’s Rock Ranch, visit its website, and check out its Facebook page.

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