Rock is heavier than it looks
A cubic yard of river rock is about 1.3 tons, about 2,600 lb. That's more than most half-ton pickups can legally carry. For anything over half a yard, delivery usually beats renting a trailer or making three trips.
Bags vs. bulk
Bagged decorative stone is a good deal for a small border or a single planter. Past about 20 bags, check the stone yard. The same yard of rock in bags can cost two or three times the bulk price.
Common questions
How much area does a ton of river rock cover?
At 2" deep, about 120 sq ft. At 3" deep, about 80 sq ft. Bigger stones need more depth to cover the fabric, so coverage drops as stone size goes up.
How deep should river rock be?
Lay ¾–1½" stone 2–3" deep and 2–4" stone 3–4" deep. Always put landscape fabric underneath so the rock doesn't sink into the soil.
Is river rock sold by the ton or the yard?
Usually by the ton at stone yards, and by the bag (about 0.5 cu ft) at home centers. Decorative rock bought by the bag gets expensive fast. A yard is about 54 bags.
How much rock for a dry creek bed?
Measure the length and the average width of the channel. Then use 4–6" depth to allow for the dip and the larger boulders along the edges. Most dry creeks use a mix of sizes. Figure each size separately.
Prices last checked October 2026.