Getting Rid of River Rock: Sell, Donate, or Repurpose

River rock in the front yard looks tidy until you want trees instead. This North San Diego County homeowner wants the rock gone—preferably with some return—but moving 10+ yards of stone is heavy work.

Options for Disposal

• Sell locally: Landscape supply yards (e.g., Bethel Sand & Gravel, Cooper's Landscape Supply, Evergreen Earth Products in Danbury/CT area) may buy clean, sorted river rock by the ton. Call first—they often require delivery.
• Give it away: Post "free river rock, you haul" on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, or Freecycle. DIYers, bocce court builders, and xeriscapers often want it.
• Bucket sale: Price at $2–$5 per 5-gallon bucket, buyer brings buckets. Moves fast for small projects.
• Repurpose on-site: Use as dry creek bed, French drain fill, or base for a new patio. Saves hauling and buying new material.

Prep for Transfer

Separate rock from soil and fabric. A skid-steer or mini-excavator makes quick work of loading. If hand-loading, rent a wheelbarrow and enlist help—river rock runs ~2,700 lbs/yard.

No matter the route, clean rock moves faster. Screen out fines if possible.