How To Find Yooperlites®

Note: Please use common sense! Know where you're going. Respect private property and be aware of the regulations in your state for harvesting rocks or minerals. I am following by the rules of the State of Michigan - you are allowed to harvest up to 25 pounds of rocks per year (DNR).

Please note the following restrictions at Whitefish Point. Rock collecting is not permitted there.

Where do you find Yooperlites?

In my personal experience, anywhere I've located agates, I've located Yooperlites. In the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, I've found Yooperlites anywhere from Whitefish Point to Grand Marais. I've also found them in gravel pits in Minnesota. Other folks have reported finding them on Lake Michigan near the Chicago area and also near the Point Betsie Area.

Note: It is illegal to take anything from any National Park or area, including the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore area.

Things you'll want to take

I recommend getting to the beach before dark. You want to be aware of your surroundings before it gets dark out. Bring a white flashlight - it's difficult to navigate your way with just a UV light. I bring glowsticks with me - I use one to mark the area where I went down to the beach, so I can find my way back to my vehicle. It's very easy to get lost on the beach in the dark. Bring a snack, water and extra batteries in a backpack with you. This also provides you with an easy way to store any rocks you may find.

Don't go unprepared, and don't go by yourself. A lot of places along Lake Superior don't have cellphone service. While this is fun and a great experience, I want to make sure people are prepared.

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