Mt. Hood Rock Club (MHRC) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has thrived since 1952, bringing together rockhounds of all ages and experience levels. We are the largest rock club in the Portland metro area, dedicated to rockhounding, lapidary arts, and earth sciences through education, field trips, and hands-on learning.
By becoming a member, you gain access to exclusive benefits that enhance your rockhounding and lapidary experience:
Club Meetings & Community
- Two club meetings per month featuring:
- Rockhounding, lapidary, and geology-themed presentations and demonstrations
- Show & Tell where members share their latest finds and projects
- Club business updates and social time with fellow rock enthusiasts
- Opportunities to connect with experienced rockhounds and lapidary artists for advice and mentorship
- Regular club emails and announcements keep you informed about events, field trips, and opportunities
Field Trips & Rockhounding
- Access to club-organized field trips led by experienced members
- Hands-on guidance in finding and identifying rocks and minerals
- Responsible collecting in compliance with laws, regulations, and the Rockhound Code of Ethics
Lapidary Shop Access
- Members-only lapidary shop with fully stocked equipment
- Slab cutting services and expert instruction on cabochon making
- Opportunities for one-on-one or small-group instruction in lapidary skills
Exclusive Rockhounding Sites
- Access to MHRC’s club-maintained thunderegg claim in the Ochoco Mountains
Museum Benefits
- Unlimited free admission to the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals
Discounts & Exclusive Sales
- Members-only pricing on rock and lapidary materials sourced from estates
- Discounts on equipment & supplies (including grit, oil, and tools)
- Access to Kingsley North wholesale pricing through our dealer account
Special Events & Club Activities
- Annual rock & mineral show to showcase and educate the public
- Club-hosted sales & auctions featuring quality materials at great prices
- Summer picnic & holiday banquet for members to socialize and celebrate
Association Memberships Included with MHRC Dues
Portland Regional Gem & Mineral Show Association: The largest rock and mineral show in the metro area
Northwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies (NFMS): Uniting clubs across the NW to promote earth sciences and lapidary arts. Read more about the benefits of Federation membership here.
American Lands Access Association (ALAA): Advocating for rockhound access to public lands
Oregon Council of Rock and Mineral Clubs: Working to build stewardship with BLM and federal land agencies.