Set along the eastern edge of the Cascade Range, Wasco County offers a blend of scenic terrain and intriguing geology that has produced some of Oregon’s most underappreciated thundereggs. The county’s beds are typically smaller and more scattered than those in central and southeastern Oregon, but what they lack in scale, they make up for in variety. Collectors often find nodules with soft, earthy matrix and interiors that reveal muted agate, subtle moss, and occasional jasper-filled cores.
These thundereggs frequently display a more weathered exterior, often blending seamlessly into the surrounding basalt and tuff layers. This makes field collecting both a challenge and a rewarding experience. The agate interiors tend toward neutral tones—grays, whites, and tans—though rare specimens show banding or fortification patterns. With its lesser-known beds and peaceful landscapes, Wasco County offers a quieter, more contemplative rockhounding experience for those looking to explore beyond the more famous sites.