Irish Bend

Rockhounding at Irish Bend near Eugene, Oregon is basically riverbed bingo—except the prizes are agates instead of grandma’s ceramic cats. The Willamette River likes to spit out chalcedony, jasper, and agates so pretty you’ll wonder if you should frame them or just brag about them online. Whether you’re searching for things to do in Eugene, Oregon, plotting an Oregon rockhounding trip, or hoping to outshine your cousin’s crystal collection, Irish Bend delivers sparkly treasures with a side of muddy boots.

Irish Bend Park Monroe Oregon rockhounding agate
Irish Bend Park Monroe Oregon rockhounding

Getting There

Finding Irish Bend near Eugene, Oregon isn’t exactly rocket science, but it does feel like a treasure map quest. You’ll be chasing gravel bars along the Willamette River, and yes, you will wonder at least once if you’re trespassing. (Stay on public access, and you’re golden.)

  • From Eugene: Drive west like you’re trying to escape homework. Hop on OR-99 toward Monroe, then veer off toward the Irish Bend area. Total time: about 30–40 minutes, depending on how many times you stop for gas-station snacks you “didn’t need.”

  • From Corvallis: It’s a southward shuffle—about 35 minutes—straight into agate country.

  • From Portland: Two hours. Plenty of time to question whether you packed enough buckets and why you have this many buckets.

Most collectors park near the pull-offs by the river access. If the road looks like a cow trail, congratulations—you’re probably close. Don’t be afraid of a little mud; agates look better when you’ve suffered for them.