🌊 River Rock Calculator
Calculate river rock needed for landscaping projects
Common depths: 2-3 inches (decorative), 4-6 inches (functional coverage)
How to Use This Calculator
Enter Area Dimensions
Input the length and width of your area in feet. Measure the total area where you'll be installing river rock for landscaping, decorative features, or functional coverage.
Specify Depth
Enter the depth in inches. Common depths: 2-3 inches for decorative coverage, 4-6 inches for functional coverage (drainage, weed prevention). Deeper layers provide better coverage but use more material.
Calculate River Rock
Click "Calculate River Rock" to see the volume needed in cubic yards, cubic feet, tons, and bags. The calculator accounts for standard river rock density.
Order Materials
Use the cubic yards result to order from suppliers. River rock is typically delivered by the cubic yard. Add 10% extra for waste and settling. Order larger quantities for better pricing.
Formula
Depth (feet) = Depth (inches) ÷ 12
Volume (cubic feet) = Length (ft) × Width (ft) × Depth (ft)
Cubic Yards = Cubic Feet ÷ 27
Weight (tons) = Cubic Yards × Density (1.3 tons/yd³)
Example 1: Decorative Coverage (20 ft × 10 ft × 3 inches)
Step 1: Convert depth: 3 inches ÷ 12 = 0.25 feet
Step 2: Calculate volume: 20 × 10 × 0.25 = 50 cubic feet
Step 3: Convert to yards: 50 ÷ 27 = 1.85 cubic yards
Step 4: Calculate weight: 1.85 × 1.3 = 2.41 tons
Step 5: Add waste: 1.85 × 1.10 = 2.04 cubic yards (with 10% waste)
Example 2: Functional Coverage (30 ft × 15 ft × 4 inches)
Step 1: Convert depth: 4 inches ÷ 12 = 0.333 feet
Step 2: Calculate volume: 30 × 15 × 0.333 = 150 cubic feet
Step 3: Convert to yards: 150 ÷ 27 = 5.56 cubic yards
Step 4: Calculate weight: 5.56 × 1.3 = 7.23 tons
About River Rock Calculator
The River Rock Calculator is an essential tool for homeowners, landscapers, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts who need to accurately determine how much river rock is required for their landscaping projects. This calculator eliminates guesswork by providing precise measurements in cubic yards (the standard unit for river rock delivery), cubic feet, tons, and bags, helping you order the right amount of materials without waste or shortages.
When to Use This Calculator
- Landscaping Projects: Calculate river rock needed for decorative landscaping features and garden beds
- Ground Cover: Determine material requirements for river rock ground cover to prevent weeds and erosion
- Drainage Areas: Estimate river rock for drainage swales, dry creek beds, or drainage features
- Decorative Features: Calculate materials for decorative river rock installations around patios, walkways, or features
- Budget Planning: Calculate material costs by determining exact quantities needed
Why Use Our Calculator?
- ✅ Accurate Measurements: Precise calculations prevent over-ordering or running short
- ✅ Multiple Units: Get results in cubic yards (for delivery), cubic feet, tons, and bags
- ✅ Weight Estimates: Provides weight calculations for shipping and handling
- ✅ Cost Savings: Order the exact amount needed plus waste allowance to avoid excess material
- ✅ Time Efficient: Instant calculations save hours of manual math and measurements
- ✅ Professional Results: Industry-standard formulas ensure contractor-quality estimates
Common Applications
Decorative Landscaping: Homeowners and landscapers planning decorative river rock installations use this calculator to order the correct quantity of river rock. Standard decorative coverage uses 2-3 inches of river rock, which this calculator helps determine accurately.
Ground Cover: Landscapers and homeowners planning river rock ground cover use this tool to estimate materials needed. Functional ground cover typically requires 4-6 inches of river rock for effective weed prevention and erosion control.
Drainage Features: Contractors planning drainage swales or dry creek beds use this calculator to determine river rock quantities needed, ensuring sufficient materials are on-site before starting work.
Tips for Best Results
- Add Waste Allowance: Always add 10% extra to account for settling and waste
- Depth Recommendations: Use 2-3 inches for decorative coverage, 4-6 inches for functional coverage
- Settling Factor: River rock settles over time—account for this with proper depth
- Rock Sizes: Common sizes: 1-2 inches (small), 2-4 inches (medium), 4-8 inches (large)
- Order by Volume: River rock is typically ordered in cubic yards; verify with supplier for weight-based orders
Frequently Asked Questions
How much river rock do I need for a 20×10 foot area at 3 inches deep?
A 20×10 foot area at 3 inches deep requires approximately 1.85 cubic yards of river rock, weighing about 2.41 tons. Always add 10% extra for settling and waste, so plan for about 2.04 cubic yards or 2.65 tons.
What's the difference between river rock and crushed stone?
River rock is rounded (smooth edges) from natural erosion in rivers. Crushed stone is angular (sharp edges) made by crushing larger stones. River rock is decorative and used for landscaping. Crushed stone is functional and used for driveways and base material.
How deep should river rock be for ground cover?
For decorative coverage, use 2-3 inches of river rock. For functional ground cover (weed prevention, erosion control), use 4-6 inches. Deeper coverage prevents weeds better but uses more material. Choose depth based on your needs and budget.
Do I need to add extra river rock for settling?
Yes! River rock settles over time, especially when walked on or rained on. Always add 10% extra to account for settling, compaction, and waste. If you need 2 yards, order about 2.2 yards (with 10% waste).
How much does a cubic yard of river rock weigh?
A cubic yard of river rock typically weighs 1.2-1.3 tons (2,400-2,600 pounds), depending on size and moisture content. River rock is less dense than crushed stone because it's rounded and has more air space. Actual weight may vary by size and supplier.
Can I use river rock for driveways?
Not recommended! River rock is rounded and doesn't compact well, making it unsuitable for driveways. Use crushed stone for driveways instead. River rock is best for decorative landscaping, ground cover, and drainage features.