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There are a few factors to consider when choosing the right size river rock for a landscaping project. First, think about how you’ll use the rocks. For example, if you’re installing them as part of a water feature, medium-sized stones (ranging between 2 and 5 inches) often work best. Smaller rocks (from 1 and 3 inches) are better for walkways and pathways, while a mix of medium and large stones (between 3 and 8 inches) is ideal for garden beds.

The best equipment for moving large rocks from your yard depends on their size and weight. A heavy-duty wheelbarrow or a rock dolly can be effective for smaller boulders. A skid-steer loader or a mini-excavator with a grapple attachment provides the necessary power and control for larger, heavier rocks that you can’t lift manually. Professionals may use a larger excavator and ratchet hoist to remove larger boulders.

The difference between river rock and landscaping rocks is size, smoothness, and use. River rocks are smooth and flat, as if polished by water, and come in diameters between 1 and 8 inches. Landscape rock can vary in size from small pea gravel installations to car-sized boulders. However, landscaping and river rocks are interchangeable in many situations. River rock is best for pathways, walkways, garden bed mulch, water features, and planting accents, while small landscape rocks can serve as a walkway base, gravel playground areas, and filler between pavers.

The cheapest landscape rock is gravel, pebbles, or decomposed granite. These small rocks are great for affordable driveways and walkways. If you’re looking for larger rocks as a building material, you can get fieldstone affordably, especially if sourced from somewhere in your area.