River Rock Calculator
Estimate Volume, Weight, Coverage & Cost for Your Landscaping Project
Your River Rock Estimate
Visual Representation
Approximately 0 truckloads needed
Approximately 0 bags (1 cubic yard each)
How the River Rock Calculator Works
Our calculator uses standard formulas to estimate the amount of river rock you need for your landscaping project. Here’s how it works:
Volume Calculation
For rectangular areas: Volume = Length × Width × Depth
For circular areas: Volume = π × Radius² × Depth
For triangular areas: Volume = ½ × Base × Height × Depth
Weight Calculation
Weight = Volume × Density (based on rock type)
Coverage Calculation
Coverage Area = Volume / Depth
Common River Rock Densities
| Rock Type | Density (tons/cubic yard) | Density (kg/cubic meter) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard River Rock | 1.35 | 1600 |
| Quartzite | 1.5 | 1780 |
| 3-5″ River Rock | 1.2 | 1420 |
| Pea Gravel | 1.4 | 1660 |
Frequently Asked Questions
For most decorative purposes, a depth of 2-3 inches is sufficient. For pathways or high-traffic areas, 3-4 inches is recommended. For drainage applications, a depth of 4-6 inches is typically used.
Larger rocks have more empty space between them, so you’ll need more volume to cover the same area compared to smaller rocks. This is why density varies by rock size.
A standard dump truck can carry about 10-15 cubic yards of material. Smaller trucks might carry 5-7 cubic yards. Always check with your supplier for exact capacities.
We recommend adding 10-15% extra to account for spillage, settling, and irregularities in your project area. For complex shapes or large projects, consider adding 15-20%.