Calculate tons and cubic yards of smooth river rocks and cobble for dry creek beds, foundation perimeter borders, drainage swales, and water features.
Need calculations calibrated for a specific aggregate? Choose from our dedicated stone and rock estimators with pre-configured quarry densities:
Standard aggregate estimator for generic driveways, landscaping beds, utility trenches, and patios.
Estimate Standard Gravel →Smooth, 3/8" rounded river pebbles for barefoot-friendly walkways, dog runs, patio seating, and pipe bedding.
Estimate Pea Gravel →Angular, machine-fractured stone providing interlocking strength for driveway bases, sub-bases, and concrete.
Estimate Crushed Stone →Heavy, compactable granite fines and rock dust engineered for firm, permeable bocce courts, paths, and xeriscaping.
Estimate Decomposed Granite →Naturally polished 1"–3" stones for aesthetic dry creek beds, bioswales, perimeter drainage, and water features.
Active Calculator ✓Uniform 1/2" to 1" clean-washed angular aggregate for French drains, septic drain fields, and driveway surfaces.
Estimate #57 Stone →One cubic yard of smooth river rock weighs approximately 2,916 pounds (1.46 US short tons), based on a typical bulk quarry density of 108 lbs per cubic foot ($2,916\text{ lbs/yd}^3$).
River Rock Weight & Size Breakdown:
Because river stones are rounded and smooth, they do not compact or bind together. They are used primarily for drainage water flow, aesthetics, and erosion control:
| Application | Recommended Size | Recommended Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Creek Beds | 1"–3" base with 4"–8" edge boulders | 3 to 4 inches |
| Foundation Perimeter Splash Guard | 1"–2" river rock | 3 inches (12"–18" wide trench) |
| Pond Margins & Waterfalls | 2"–4" river cobble | 4 to 6 inches |
| Flower Bed Rock Mulch | 1"–3" decorative river stone | 3 inches over woven geotextile fabric |