River Rock vs. Pea Rock: The Best Choice for Landscaping
In 2024 alone, Americans invested $603 billion in home remodeling, reports NAR’s Remodeling Impact study. Protecting that investment means making precise material choices. The true debate for any homeowner is which material can deliver: Is it the durable drainage power of river rock, or the comfortable, tidy finish of pea rock?
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences, show where each one works best, and help you decide which option is the smarter choice for your project.
In This Blog
Here’s what we’ll cover in this post:
- The key differences between river rock and pea rock
- How each landscaping rock is used in landscaping, drainage, playgrounds, and driveways
- Why washed river rock is cleaner, safer, and more attractive
- How local sourcing from Legacy Materials saves you time and money
Rocking the Basics: What’s the Difference?
Both river rock and pea rock come from natural stone. But they do not look or act the same.
| Feature | River Rock | Pea Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Larger stones with varied diameters | Small, about pea-sized |
| Look | Bold, rustic, eye-catching | Smooth, uniform, subtle |
| Functionality | Handles heavy drainage and erosion | Comfortable underfoot, neat coverage |
Beauty or Practicality? Why Not Both
River rock makes a bold statement, offering a natural look that stands out around flower beds, water features, or edging. It’s also the better choice for drainage since its larger gaps let water pass through easily. Pea rock, on the other hand, blends in more naturally and feels softer underfoot, making it ideal for walkways, playgrounds, or filling between pavers.
Everyday Uses That Make a Difference
Here is where each type of landscaping rock works best:
Decorative landscaping:
River rock creates bold borders. Pea rock makes a subtle ground cover.
Drainage and erosion:
River rock allows water to flow through effectively.
Playgrounds and footpaths:
Pea rock is smoother, safer, and more comfortable.
Driveways and walkways:
Pea rock compacts neatly but may scatter. River rock adds character when placed correctly.
One type is not always better than the other. The key is choosing the right decorative gravel for the right spot.
Clean Sweep: The Benefits of Washed Rock
Once you’ve chosen the right type of rock, there’s one more factor that can make a big difference in appearance and maintenance: whether it’s washed or unwashed. Dusty, messy stone can make any surface look dull. That is why washed river rock makes such a difference.
- Cleaner look without dirt or debris
- Safer to walk on, especially near patios and play areas
- Less staining on driveways and concrete
- Better drainage since fine particles are removed
Both river rock and pea rock are available in a washed state. Choosing washed rock gives you both beauty and function.
So, Which Rock Should You Pick?
Here is a quick guide:
- For a bold, rustic style, choose river rock.
- For comfort and neat coverage, go with pea rock.
- For the cleanest and safest option, choose washed river rock.
For cost savings and convenience, source your decorative gravel locally from Legacy Materials.
Think Local, Save More
Whether you’re choosing river rock or pea rock, sourcing local landscaping rock can save both time and money. Legacy Materials is a women-owned company that takes pride in supporting local projects with dependable, high-quality materials. With Legacy Materials, you get faster delivery, reduced transport costs, and reliable quality. Their Des Moines area operation means your materials are always close by.
Legacy also offers more than rock. From sand and topsoil to screened dirt and aggregates, they provide everything you need in one place. If you are weighing different types of sand for your project, take a look at our guide on Comparing Sand Options: Which One is Best for Your Project?
By choosing local suppliers, you also get access to high-quality certified products. Learn more about the importance of certified materials in our post on Why Go With Iowa DOT-Certified Materials For Your Project?
Let’s Rock Your Landscape
The right landscaping rock can turn an ordinary yard into something memorable. Imagine a driveway that drains smoothly after every storm, a playground that feels safe under little feet, or a garden bed that pops with natural color. Whether it is bold river rock, versatile pea rock, or the polished look of washed river rock, Legacy Materials has what you need, delivered quickly and locally.
Bring your vision to life. Contact Legacy Materials today, and let’s get your landscape rocking.
