Great Salt Plains Crystal Digging Area

The crystal digging area at Great Salt Plains is one of the few places in the world where visitors can collect hourglass-shaped selenite crystals. The crystals form beneath the salt flats as gypsum interacts with mineral-rich groundwater and incorporates dark sand into the distinctive hourglass pattern. Digging is allowed only in designated areas and during the official season, both to protect wildlife habitat and to manage the resource. The most successful approach is usually to excavate into moist sand below the salt crust and carefully expose crystals rather than striking them with tools. The landscape itself is part of the experience. The white flats, intense sun and open horizon look unlike most of Oklahoma, while the neighboring wildlife refuge supports large numbers of migratory birds. Visitors should bring water, sun protection, digging tools and containers for specimens, and they should follow current limits on how much material can be collected. The combination of hands-on geology and unusual scenery makes this one of the state's most distinctive family-friendly outdoor activities.