River Gravel in Illinois
Also sold as River Rock
Also known as: Illinois river gravel, washed gravel
A planted edge in Illinois can collect water when prairie clay stays exposed. River Gravel gives that visible area rounded decorative cover for drainage.
- Size: 1 inch to 3 inches
- Type: Smooth, naturally rounded stones
- Color: Tans, grays, browns and occasional reds
From $790 for 1 ton, delivery included (larger loads cost significantly less per ton)
Free delivery included
Free delivery anywhere in Illinois
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Weekday delivery, earliest Nov 3
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Everything You Need to Know About River Gravel
Size and Grading
- Size
- 1 inch to 3 inches
- Type
- Smooth, naturally rounded stones
- Color
- Tans, grays, browns and occasional reds
Prairie clay can leave a homeowner's planted border looking muddy after rain, and northern freezing can keep that moisture in play. River Gravel gives a landscape drainage area a finished surface of smooth, rounded stones rather than exposed soil. Its earth-tone color mix works well as decorative ground cover beside planting areas and water features.
Where a border is meant to direct runoff, establish the drainage route before adding River Gravel as the exposed finish. That helps keep the material serving its intended landscape role while water drains through the stone. This is useful around Illinois properties with slow-draining clay, including the Chicago suburbs and Little Egypt.
Quickly Calculate How Much You Need
Material: River Gravel
How to Measure
Measure the length and width of your project area in feet
Decide on depth in inches (2" for landscaping, 4" for driveways)
Enter the values above and we'll calculate the tonnage you need
Need help figuring out the right amount? We can help!
Call or text us at (847) 469-1546 and we'll help you calculate the right quantity for your project.
Not sure how much you need? The River Rock Calculator has depth guides, coverage charts and worked examples for this material.
Common Uses
Landscaping & Garden Design
Set off planting beds, cover open soil, or build a focal area with river rock. Spread it around tree trunks, at fence lines, or in place of mulch to bring color and texture to the landscape.
Drainage Solutions
Rounded river rock leaves paths for water to move through. Use it in French drains, dry creek beds, downspout extensions, and drainage work in slow-draining prairie clay. It helps limit erosion and channels water out of low areas and away from foundations.
Water Features & Ponds
Line pond edges, waterfall channels, and fountain bottoms with river rock. Rounded stones and muted natural tones help these water areas look at home in the landscape.
Decorative Accents
River rock gives path edging, rock gardens, and xeriscape projects a clean finished look. Use it alongside pavers, stone walkways, or native plants to tie the landscape together.
Why Choose River Gravel
Durability
Unlike organic mulch, river rock will not decay, lose color, or break apart over time. Once in the bed, it can remain useful for decades without needing replacement.
Low Maintenance
River rock avoids the yearly topping off that wood mulch requires. A rinse from a garden hose now and then helps keep the stones clean and bright.
Eco-Friendly
River rock is natural and contains no chemical dyes or preservatives that can move into the soil. It lets water pass through, which can help with drainage in prairie clay, and may reduce water use in xeriscaping plans.
Aesthetic Appeal
Rounded stones with varied natural coloring give landscapes a look that does not go out of style. River rock fits traditional and modern settings alike and can add to curb appeal.
