River rock is characterized by its smooth, rounded edges and natural color palette, making it a popular material for outdoor projects. These stones are naturally weathered by flowing water, giving them a distinct texture. They are commonly used for creating decorative ground cover, establishing clear borders, and enhancing water management systems like swales and dry creek beds. This long-lasting material offers a low-maintenance alternative to organic mulches.
Selecting the Appropriate Size and Style
The effectiveness of river rock depends on selecting the correct size, generally measured by the stone’s diameter. Smaller sizes, often referred to as pea gravel, range from 1/4 to 3/8 inches and are suited for pathways or patio bases where a smooth, compact surface is desired. The slightly larger small river rock, typically between 3/4 and 1 1/2 inches, is a versatile choice for decorative ground cover in flower beds or around trees. These sizes resist displacement from wind or light rain.
Medium river rock, which falls into the 1 to 3-inch or 2 to 4-inch category, is a good option for functional applications like dry creek beds or drainage areas. The increased size allows for greater void space between the stones, facilitating rapid water percolation and preventing erosion. For creating bold visual statements, such as borders, edgings, or focal points near water features, large river cobbles measuring 4 to 6 inches or more are appropriate. The scale of the stone should complement the size of the area, as smaller rocks can appear insignificant in expansive spaces.
Aesthetic considerations extend beyond size to encompass the stone’s color and finish. River rock comes in a range of hues, including muted grays, browns, tans, and sometimes multi-colored mixes that reflect the mineral composition of the source quarry. Matching the stone color to existing hardscapes, like the home’s foundation or patio material, helps create a cohesive outdoor environment. The natural polishing process results in a smooth, matte finish that can deepen in color when wet, which is attractive in water-related installations.
Where to Purchase River Rock
The source of your river rock affects both the available selection and the final cost. For large projects requiring significant quantities, local landscape supply yards or regional quarries are usually the most cost-effective option. These specialized suppliers typically sell material in bulk by the cubic yard or ton, offering a lower price per unit than pre-bagged alternatives. They also maintain a wider inventory of sizes and color variations, often including stones sourced closer to the region.
Big box home improvement stores provide a convenient alternative, particularly for smaller-scale projects or those with easy vehicle access. These retailers stock river rock in pre-packaged plastic bags, usually weighing 40 or 50 pounds. While the bagged format is easy to transport and simple to handle, the cost per pound is higher than bulk pricing. The selection at these stores is usually limited to a few common sizes and color palettes.
Online retailers and specialty stone suppliers are often used to source unique or exotic river rock varieties that are not locally available. These suppliers may offer material in large, woven bulk bags, sometimes called “super sacks,” which typically contain one ton. The bags are delivered via a flatbed truck and forklift. This method combines the convenience of a measured quantity with freight delivery, but it can include higher shipping costs, making it suitable for unique decorative stones.
Understanding Volume and Delivery Logistics
River rock is heavy, and purchasing it requires understanding the difference between volume and weight, the two primary units of sale. Most projects are calculated based on volume—the cubic yard, which represents a pile measuring three feet by three feet by three feet. To estimate the amount needed, calculate the area’s square footage and multiply it by the desired depth in feet, then divide that total by 27 to find the required cubic yards. A standard depth for decorative river rock is typically two to three inches.
Many bulk suppliers sell by weight, which is measured in tons, requiring a conversion that accounts for the stone’s density. One cubic yard of river rock weighs approximately 1.3 to 1.6 tons, meaning a simple yard-to-ton conversion is not accurate for ordering. Consult the supplier’s specific coverage estimates, as they provide a more precise calculation for their material. Ordering a slight overage is a good practice to avoid running short on material.
The decision between buying in bulk and purchasing bags affects transportation logistics. Bulk material is delivered via a dump truck, which requires an accessible driveway or paved area with clear overhead space for dumping the load. Dump trucks require a minimum of 10 feet of width to maneuver safely and will not drive over lawns or soft surfaces. Self-pickup is possible but requires a heavy-duty truck or trailer, as the weight of even a half-ton can exceed the payload capacity of a standard pickup truck.