FREE CALCULATOR · BEND, OREGON · 2026 PRICING
Calculate tons needed and cost for decorative rock, river rock, lava rock, DG, and crushed basalt in Bend, Oregon.
Prices reflect 2026 delivered material and labor costs in Bend, OR.
Most popular for pathways and xeriscape. Compacts firm. Natural tan color.
Decorative rock is one of the most popular xeriscape materials in Central Oregon. It requires no watering, suppresses weeds, and reflects the natural high-desert aesthetic of Bend. Newport Avenue sources locally quarried basalt and river rock from Central Oregon suppliers.
| Rock Type | Per Ton |
|---|---|
| Decomposed Granite (DG) | $55 |
| Small River Rock (1"–2") | $75 |
| Medium River Rock (2"–4") | $80 |
| Lava Rock | $90 |
| Crushed Basalt | $50 |
| Pea Gravel | $65 |
Always Use Landscape Fabric
In Bend's sandy pumice soil, rock sinks over time without a fabric barrier. Newport Avenue installs commercial-grade woven landscape fabric under all rock installations. Avoid cheap plastic sheeting — it blocks water and breaks down within 2–3 years.
Central Oregon's high desert landscape is defined by volcanic rock — basalt, pumice, and obsidian are native to the region. Using locally sourced rock in your landscape connects your property to the natural environment, reduces maintenance, and creates a landscape that looks intentional rather than transplanted from a wetter climate. Newport Avenue designs rock landscapes that work with Bend's climate, not against it.
| Factor | Rock | Organic Mulch |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Higher | Lower |
| Longevity | Permanent (25+ years) | 1–3 years before refresh |
| Weed suppression | Excellent with fabric | Good at 3" depth |
| Moisture retention | Moderate | Excellent |
| Heat absorption | High (can stress plants) | Low (insulates roots) |
| Best for | Drought-tolerant plants, xeriscape | Water-loving plants, new plantings |
| Maintenance | Minimal (occasional raking) | Annual top-dress needed |
Decorative rock in Bend, Oregon costs $50–$90 per ton for material, depending on type. Crushed basalt is the most affordable at $50–$55 per ton. Lava rock is the most expensive at $85–$95 per ton. Professional installation (spreading and edging) adds $50–$60 per ton. A typical 500 sq ft xeriscape bed at 3-inch depth needs 3–5 tons of rock, costing $450–$750 for material and $600–$1,200 installed.
For a 3-inch depth of decorative rock, you need approximately 1 ton per 80–100 square feet, depending on rock density. Lava rock is lighter (about 0.9 tons per cubic yard) so you need fewer tons for the same area. Crushed basalt and river rock are heavier (1.3–1.5 tons per cubic yard). This calculator accounts for the specific density of each rock type. For a 500 sq ft xeriscape bed, plan on 3–5 tons of rock.
Lava rock and decomposed granite are the two best choices for xeriscaping in Bend, Oregon. Lava rock is native to Central Oregon, has a natural high-desert aesthetic, insulates plant roots from temperature extremes, and is lightweight. Decomposed granite compacts into a firm, walkable surface and is the most popular choice for pathways and open areas. River rock is excellent for dry creek beds and drainage features. Newport Avenue uses all three types extensively in Bend xeriscape projects.
Both work well in Bend's climate, but they serve different purposes. Lava rock is better for planting beds because it's lightweight, insulates roots, and has a natural Central Oregon look. River rock is better for high-traffic areas, dry creek beds, and drainage features because it's heavier and more durable. For a mixed xeriscape, Newport Avenue often uses lava rock in planting beds and river rock for pathways and borders.
Yes, but with an important caveat. Rock mulch reduces evaporation from the soil surface, which conserves water. However, rock also absorbs and radiates heat, which can increase water demand for plants in full sun. The best approach in Bend is to use rock mulch in areas with drought-tolerant plants (native grasses, sagebrush, ornamental grasses) and organic mulch in areas with water-loving plants. Newport Avenue designs xeriscape plans that optimize rock placement for both aesthetics and water efficiency.
Newport Avenue recommends 3 inches of decorative rock for most landscape beds in Bend. This depth provides adequate weed suppression (when installed over landscape fabric), good drainage, and a finished appearance. For pathways, 3–4 inches of decomposed granite provides a firm, walkable surface. For dry creek beds, 4–6 inches of river rock creates a natural look and handles Bend's spring snowmelt runoff.
Newport Avenue recommends commercial-grade woven landscape fabric under decorative rock in Bend. The fabric prevents rock from sinking into Bend's sandy pumice soil over time and reduces weed growth. Avoid cheap plastic sheeting — it blocks water and air from reaching plant roots and breaks down into unsightly pieces within a few years. Newport Avenue uses Dewitt Pro 5 or equivalent commercial-grade fabric on all rock installations.
XERISCAPE & ROCK LANDSCAPING — CENTRAL OREGON
Newport Avenue designs and installs rock landscapes that look natural in Central Oregon's high desert environment. Locally sourced materials, commercial-grade fabric, and expert installation.
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