Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge Crystal Dig Area

Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge protects 32,000 acres of salt flats where an ancient sea once covered this part of Oklahoma. The crystal dig area allows visitors to hunt for hourglass-shaped selenite crystals embedded with sand inclusions that form nowhere else on Earth. The digging season runs April through October, and you’ll need to bring your own tools – a small shovel and something to carry crystals work best. The salt flats are blindingly white and can be brutally hot in summer with zero shade.

Access is via OK-38 about 8 miles northeast of Cherokee. The refuge headquarters has restrooms and water, but the dig area itself has no facilities. Park at the designated area and walk out onto the flats. The ground can be soft and muddy after rain, potentially trapping vehicles. Best digging is typically after storms when crystals are freshly exposed. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and eye protection.

Dig for unique hourglass selenite crystals