11 Best River Rocks For Landscaping for 2024

(Many of the links in this article redirect to a specific reviewed product. Your purchase of these products through affiliate links helps to generate commission for Chicagolandgardening.com, at no extra cost. Learn more)

Are you ready to transform your outdoor space into a stunning oasis? Look no further than our curated list of the 11 Best River Rocks for Landscaping for 2023. Whether you are creating a serene garden retreat or a modern, minimalist design, these carefully selected river rocks are sure to elevate your landscaping game. With their natural beauty and versatile uses, these rocks serve as both functional and decorative elements in outdoor settings. From enhancing pathways and borders to creating water features and focal points, these exceptional river rocks offer endless possibilities for your landscaping projects. Stay ahead of the curve and discover the top choices for 2023.

Smooth Pebbles River Rocks

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.2/10

Enhance your garden, home decor, and crafts with the Ausluru 11LB Smooth Pebbles River Rocks. These 100% natural rocks are hand-picked for their smooth surface and come in a variety of attractive colors. With over 40 pieces in different sizes, these rocks are perfect for DIY arts and crafts projects, painting, flower arrangements, and more. They are also a great choice for garden landscaping and can be used in aquariums and fountain features. These premium decorative pebbles are non-toxic and eco-friendly, ensuring long-lasting beauty. Let your creativity flow and add a touch of nature to your surroundings with Ausluru Smooth Pebbles River Rocks.

The Ausluru 11LB Smooth Pebbles River Rocks offer a versatile and natural solution for enhancing your garden, home decor, and artistic projects. Their premium quality and variety of colors make them a great choice for multiple applications. While the quantity may vary, these rocks provide a smooth canvas for painting and add an elegant touch to any space. The natural attribute of their different presentations adds depth and beauty to your creations. With their non-toxic and eco-friendly nature, these rocks are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable. Embrace your creativity and explore the beauty of nature with Ausluru Smooth Pebbles River Rocks.

Virekm River Rocks Decorative Pebbles Garden Stones

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8/10

Enhance the beauty of your garden with Virekm River Rocks Decorative Ornamental Pebbles. These natural stones come in a variety of colors that give a smooth and polished effect. With their round and soft texture, they are safe to handle and won't hurt your hands. These multi-purpose stones can be used for flower arrangements, vase fillings, pathways, and more. Each pack contains 1 or 2 pounds of stones, which are approximately 0.5 to 1.2 inches in size. Despite some customers finding the quantity to be smaller than expected, these stones have received positive reviews for their quality and appearance. Bring a touch of elegance and natural beauty to your garden with Virekm River Rocks Decorative Ornamental Pebbles.

Virekm River Rocks Decorative Ornamental Pebbles are an excellent choice for adding a touch of beauty to your garden. The natural colors and polished finish of these stones create an elegant and smooth aesthetic. Although some customers found the quantity to be smaller than expected, the quality and versatility of these stones received positive feedback. They can be used for various indoor and outdoor decorations, adding charm to flower arrangements, vase fillings, and pathways. The responsive customer service team is an added advantage, ensuring prompt assistance. If you’re looking for a high-quality decorative stone option, Virekm River Rocks are worth considering.

GASPRO Decorative Rocks for Plants and Garden Landscaping

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.5/10

Enhance the beauty of your plants and garden with GASPRO 15lb Decorative Rocks. These natural polished river stones feature a high-polish surface that adds shine to your plants. They are not only eco-friendly but also versatile, suitable for a variety of purposes such as planters, outdoor landscaping, and gardens. The pebbles come in a mix of sizes and shades, offering a diverse and appealing look for your outdoor space. Not only do they improve the appearance of your garden, but they also serve as drainage and soil cover. With cost-effectiveness and large quantities, this 15lb package is a beautiful and budget-friendly solution for your gardening needs.

GASPRO 15lb Decorative Rocks are an excellent choice for enhancing the beauty of your plants and garden. The highly polished stones add shine and a touch of elegance to any outdoor space. Their versatility allows them to be used in various applications, from planters to landscaping. With a mix of sizes and shades, the rocks provide a diverse and appealing look. They also offer practical benefits as drainage and soil cover. While they may not be sufficient to cover large areas due to the cost, their cost-effectiveness and large quantities make them a beautiful and budget-friendly solution. Overall, these decorative rocks are a fantastic addition to any garden or outdoor area.

Black Grey Mexican Beach Pebbles

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 7.5/10

The AA Plus Shop 50 Lb. Premium Black Grey Mexican Beach Pebbles are handpicked natural stones from the beaches of Baja Mexico/California Peninsula. They are perfect for landscaping, gardening, and other applications. These pebbles help with erosion control, water retention in the soil, and restraining weed growth. Each stone is unique in size and color, ensuring a beautiful and natural look. With a size variation between 3-5 inches, these pebbles are ideal for lawn replacement, rock gardens, pathways, river beds, and more. The stones are of high quality and contribute to water conservation in dry-scape and xeriscape environments. Enhance your garden, landscape, pathways, and backyard with these premium pebbles.

The AA Plus Shop 50 Lb. Premium Black Grey Mexican Beach Pebbles are a great choice for anyone looking to enhance their garden with a natural and beautiful landscape. These handpicked stones add a unique touch to any outdoor area and help with various gardening needs such as erosion control and water retention. While there may be slight variations in weight and color, the overall quality and appeal of these pebbles make them a worthwhile purchase. Create stunning rock gardens, pathways, and river beds with these high-quality pebbles and transform your backyard into a tranquil oasis. With their natural beauty and practical benefits, these pebbles are an excellent addition to any gardening project.

YISZM 5lbs Black Pebbles for Plants, 2-3 Inch High Polished Natural Large River Rocks for Landscaping, Decorative Stones Vase Filler Fish Tank Aquariums Garden Outdoor and Indoor DIY

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.5/10

The YISZM 5lbs Black Pebbles for Plants is a high-quality and natural decorative stone option for various gardening projects. These river rocks are about 2-3 inches in diameter and feature irregular shapes and a smooth surface. Made of natural river rocks, they are non-toxic and free of any additional fillers, dyes, or oils. The pebbles are designed to retain their luster for several years without fading and provide good moisture retention and drainage for the soil. They can be used for planters, vase fillers, gardens, birdbaths, aquariums, and landscaping. With easy use and multiple purposes, these black pebbles are a beautiful and durable alternative to traditional coverings. Overall, they are a great addition to home decor and DIY projects.

The YISZM 5lbs Black Pebbles for Plants is a beautiful and versatile option for gardeners and DIY enthusiasts. With their high-quality natural river rocks, these pebbles add elegance and provide practical benefits like soil moisture retention and drainage. They are suitable for a range of purposes, including planters, gardens, aquariums, and landscaping projects. While the price may be a bit higher than expected, the overall quality and visual appeal of these pebbles make them worth considering. Whether you want to add a decorative touch to your indoor or outdoor spaces or enhance the visual appeal of your plants, these black pebbles are a reliable choice.

PGN Black River Rocks for Plants – 5 Pounds

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.7/10

Elevate your space with the striking aesthetic of PGN Black River Rocks. These smooth, polished black stones are perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. With their rich color that doesn't fade, they create exquisite focal points in planters, aquariums, vases, fireplaces, and landscapes. Sized between 1-3 inches, these rocks are versatile and come in a 5-pound bag. Beyond just adding visual appeal, they also help retain moisture in soil and deter pets from digging into plants. Overall, PGN Black River Rocks are a decorative and functional addition to any garden or living space.

PGN Black River Rocks are a fantastic addition to any garden or living space. Their beautiful aesthetic, durability, and versatility make them a must-have for planters, aquariums, vases, fireplaces, and landscapes. The perfect size range allows for seamless use indoors and outdoors, and they even help with soil moisture retention. Whether you want to create exquisite focal points or deter pets from digging, these black river rocks have got you covered. Don’t settle for ordinary rocks – elevate your space with the elegance of PGN Black River Rocks for Plants!

Royal Imports 5LBS River Rocks Decorative Ornamental Pebbles

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 9/10

Add a touch of natural beauty to your garden, home decor, or aquarium with these high-quality River Rocks by Royal Imports. These non-toxic and eco-friendly stones are the perfect alternative to annual wood mulching, as they won't deteriorate over time. The round and smooth pebbles provide good drainage and are pleasant to walk on. Use them in flowerbeds, walkways, or as decorative toppings for concrete. The rocks can also be used for various craft projects and as accents for aquariums, water gardens, and terrariums. The natural black and white finish of the rocks adds a beautiful touch to any nature-themed setting. Each bag contains approximately 50-60 rocks of different shapes and sizes, ranging from 2.00" to 0.75" in length.

Royal Imports’ River Rocks are a fantastic addition to any garden or home decor. Their natural beauty and versatility make them a worthwhile investment. Although some rocks may be imperfect and require rinsing or cleaning, overall, the product is of good quality. The smooth and rounded stones not only provide excellent drainage but also add an appealing aesthetic to your surroundings. Whether you’re using them in flowerbeds, walkways, or as decorative accents, these river rocks will enhance the visual appeal of any space. With their natural black and white finish, they beautifully complement nature-themed settings. Despite some minor drawbacks, these pebbles are a great choice for enhancing the beauty of your garden, aquarium, or craft projects.

18 Pounds Natural River Rocks Mexican Beach Pebbles for Garden Landscape Stone Paving Stone Grey 1 Inch – 1.5 Inch

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8/10

Enhance the beauty of your garden with the 18 Pounds Natural River Rocks Mexican Beach Pebbles. These grey, non-toxic stones are smooth, flat, and oval or round in shape, making them perfect for various applications such as succulent containers, potted plants, vases, cactus, bonsai, landscape, and terrariums. They can also be used for creating paintings on the stone surface, adding a creative touch to your home decor. These natural stones are eco-friendly and long-lasting, unlike mulch. With efficient after-sales service and a quality guarantee, this product is a must-have for all gardening enthusiasts.

The 18 Pounds Natural River Rocks Mexican Beach Pebbles are a great addition to any garden landscape. Their smooth surface and natural grey color enhance the beauty of any space, whether it’s indoor or outdoor. The size range of 1″ to 2″ makes them versatile for different projects. While they may not be as heavy as expected and the price is slightly higher than other options, their long-lasting quality and eco-friendly nature make them a worthwhile investment. Whether you’re creating succulent containers, potted plants, or a peaceful outdoor retreat, these river rocks will add a touch of elegance and creativity to your garden.

LF Inc. Premium Large Mixed Mexican Stone Beach Pebbles

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.5/10

Create a beautiful and natural landscape with LF Inc. Premium Large Mixed Mexican Stone Beach Pebbles. These handpicked stones from the beaches of Baja Mexico/California Peninsula are perfect for water-saving gardens, rock gardens, pathways, and more. They help with erosion control, water retention, and restraining weed growth. The pebbles come in a mixed color and are 2-4 inches in size. With their aesthetic appeal and practical benefits, these stones are perfect for enhancing your outdoor space. Get the LF Inc. Premium Large Mixed Mexican Stone Beach Pebbles and bring the beauty of the beach into your garden.

The LF Inc. Premium Large Mixed Mexican Stone Beach Pebbles provide a practical and visually appealing solution for your garden and landscaping needs. These handpicked stones bring the natural beauty of the beach into your outdoor space while helping with water conservation, erosion control, and weed prevention. Though some shipments may lack color variation and the packaging could be better, the overall quality and versatility of these pebbles make them a great addition to any garden or landscape. Transform your outdoor space with the LF Inc. Premium Large Mixed Mexican Stone Beach Pebbles and enjoy a beautiful and low-maintenance environment.

Bulk Black Rocks – Natural Unpolished Stones for Plants and Gardens

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 9/10

Enhance the beauty of your plants and garden with this 30-pound set of Bulk Black Rocks. These 100% natural unpolished river rocks have a matte finish and come in various shades, shapes, and sizes, resulting in a stunning effect when used in any project. Ideal for large gardening, decor, or landscaping projects, this bulk set offers the best price and quantity. These pebbles are versatile and perfect for both indoor and outdoor applications such as potted plants, terrariums, flower gardens, fish tanks, and more. In addition, you can unleash your creativity by using these rocks for crafts, rock painting, and unique artwork. With its non-toxic and eco-friendly features, these pebbles are not only safe but also long-lasting and reusable.

Bulk Black Rocks is a fantastic product that offers a perfect balance between quality and quantity. With its natural and unpolished black pebbles, this set adds a touch of elegance to any planting or landscaping project. Its versatility makes it suitable for various uses such as home decor, crafts, and art projects. The stones are eco-friendly, non-toxic, and reusable, ensuring long-lasting beauty. Whether you’re creating a soothing meditation garden, vibrant flowerbeds, or a captivating fish tank, these pebbles provide the finishing touch. The bulk buy option ensures you have an ample supply to complete any large-scale project. Upgrade your garden with Bulk Black Rocks and let your creativity shine!

Voulosimi River Rock Stones

Check Latest Price

This product has a rating of A.*What does this rating mean?

Overall Score: 8.5/10

Enhance your outdoor and indoor spaces with the Voulosimi 12 LBS River Rock Stones. These natural decorative polished mixed pebbles gravel offer a wide variety of colors and shapes to create beautiful flower arrangements, walkways, water features, and more. They are long-lasting and won't deteriorate like mulch. The stones help retain moisture in the soil and add a touch of elegance to any decor. With a 12 LB size, it's ideal for various applications. Plus, the Voulosimi brand offers a full refund guarantee if you're not satisfied with the product. Bring a unique charm to your gardens and landscaping projects with these pebbles!

The Voulosimi 12 LBS River Rock Stones are a fantastic addition to any gardening project. With their natural colors and durability, they can enhance any outdoor or indoor space. Whether you’re creating flower arrangements, pathways, or even water features, these polished pebbles are a great choice. They help retain moisture in the soil, keeping your plants healthy and vibrant. While the quantity may not be sufficient for larger landscaping projects, the Voulosimi brand offers a full refund guarantee if you’re not satisfied. Overall, these decorative stones provide great value and add an elegant touch to your gardens and decor.

River Rocks for Landscaping: A Buyer's Guide

Landscaping with river rocks adds a natural and serene touch to any outdoor area. The smooth texture and earthy colors of river rocks make them a popular choice for various landscaping projects. Whether you want to create a pathway, build a dry river bed, or simply add decorative elements to your garden, river rocks are a versatile and durable option. This buyer's guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting river rocks for your landscaping needs.

Key Considerations

When buying river rocks for landscaping, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose the right type and quantity:

1. Size Matters: Determine the ideal size of river rocks based on your intended landscaping project. Larger rocks are suitable for boulder arrangements or focal points, while smaller rocks work well for ground cover or accent features.
2. Color Palette: River rocks come in a range of colors, including varying shades of gray, brown, black, and even red or white. Consider the existing color scheme of your landscape and choose rocks that complement it.
3. Texture and Shape: River rocks can have different textures, from smooth and rounded to jagged and irregular. Consider the overall aesthetic you want to achieve and select rocks that align with that vision.
4. Quantity and Coverage: Calculate the total area you wish to cover with river rocks to determine the quantity needed. Measure the length, width, and depth of the area and use these measurements to estimate the amount required.
5. Accessibility and Weight: River rocks can be heavy, so consider how you plan to transport and place them. If you have limited access or prefer lighter materials, you may want to explore alternative options like lightweight faux river rocks.
6. Sourcing and Eco-Friendliness: Ensure that the river rocks you purchase are obtained ethically and legally. Look for suppliers who source rocks sustainably, without causing harm to the environment or local ecosystems.
7. Maintenance and Durability: River rocks are generally low maintenance and able to withstand various weather conditions. However, consider the long-term durability of the rocks and whether they may require occasional cleaning or maintenance.

Where to Use River Rocks

River rocks can be utilized in many different ways to enhance your landscaping. Here are some popular applications:

• Pathways and Walkways: Create a beautiful and natural-looking path using river rocks. Arrange them in a pattern or create borders for a visually appealing walkway.
• Dry River Beds: Mimic the appearance of a dry river bed using river rocks. This landscaping technique adds interest and depth to your outdoor space, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall.
• Water Features: River rocks are ideal for constructing waterfalls or other water features in your garden. The rocks can be used to create cascades or as a decorative element around ponds or fountains.
• Accent Features: Use river rocks as accent pieces to highlight specific areas or objects in your landscape design. They can be placed around trees, flower beds, or sculptures to draw attention and add visual interest.
• Ground Cover: If you want to reduce the growth of weeds and create a low-maintenance ground cover, spread river rocks over the desired area. This also helps with water drainage and prevents soil erosion.