The Cubic Yard

Types of Gravel for Landscaping

6 min read · Updated June 2026

Quick guide — what do you need gravel for?
Driveway:Use #411 crusher run (base) + #57 crushed stone (surface)
Garden path or patio:Use pea gravel or decomposed granite with metal edging
Decorative garden beds:Use river rock or pea gravel over landscape fabric
Drainage (French drain):Use #57 crushed stone — no fines
Playground:Use pea gravel at 6–12 inch depth per ASTM standards

All Gravel Types — Detailed Guide

#411 Crusher Run
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $15–$25/yard
Size:
Mixed (fines to 1")
Best for: Driveway base, structural fill
Pros
✓Compacts into rock-hard surface
✓Prevents ruts and shifting
✓Very affordable
Cons
✗Not decorative
✗Not good for drainage
#57 Crushed Stone
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $25–$35/yard
Size:
3/4" angular
Best for: Driveway surface, drainage, paths
Pros
✓Stable underfoot
✓Excellent drainage
✓Clean, attractive look
Cons
✗Slightly sharp underfoot
✗Tracks into house
Pea Gravel
⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $25–$40/yard
Size:
3/8" smooth round
Best for: Paths, patios, playgrounds
Pros
✓Comfortable underfoot
✓Attractive natural look
✓Good drainage
Cons
✗Shifts without edging
✗Not for driveways
River Rock
⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $40–$80/yard
Size:
1–5" smooth round
Best for: Decorative beds, water features
Pros
✓Beautiful natural appearance
✓Long-lasting
✓Low maintenance
Cons
✗Expensive
✗Not for driveways or paths
Decomposed Granite (DG)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $30–$50/yard
Size:
Fine, angular
Best for: Patios, garden paths, xeriscape
Pros
✓Compacts to semi-hard surface
✓Natural rustic look
✓Low cost
Cons
✗Tracks easily, stains shoes
✗Not great drainage
Crushed Granite
⭐⭐⭐⭐ · $30–$50/yard
Size:
1/4"–3/4" angular
Best for: Formal paths, driveways
Pros
✓Compacts well
✓Formal look
✓Good stability
Cons
✗More expensive than limestone
✗Can be sharp

Cost Comparison

Gravel TypePer YardBest Application
#411 Crusher Run$15–$25/yardDriveway base, structural fill
#57 Crushed Stone$25–$35/yardDriveway surface, drainage, paths
Pea Gravel$25–$40/yardPaths, patios, playgrounds
River Rock$40–$80/yardDecorative beds, water features
Decomposed Granite (DG)$30–$50/yardPatios, garden paths, xeriscape
Crushed Granite$30–$50/yardFormal paths, driveways

Prices are US national averages. Add $50–$100 for delivery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best gravel for landscaping?

The best gravel depends on the use. For driveways: #57 crushed stone (surface) + #411 crusher run (base). For paths and patios: pea gravel or crushed granite. For decorative garden beds: river rock or pea gravel. For weed suppression: any gravel over landscape fabric at 2 inches.

What type of gravel is best for drainage?

For drainage applications (French drains, dry wells), use #57 crushed stone or pea gravel — both are clean, round or angular stones without fines. Avoid crusher run (#411) for drainage; it has fines that compact and block water flow.

What is the cheapest landscaping gravel?

Crusher run (#411) and #57 crushed limestone are typically the cheapest at $15–$30/yard. Pea gravel is slightly more at $25–$40/yard. Decorative options like river rock ($40–$80/yard) and decomposed granite ($30–$50/yard) cost more.

What gravel does not sink into mud?

Use #411 crusher run as a base layer — it compacts and creates a firm structural surface. Adding landscape fabric underneath any gravel project prevents it from sinking into soil. Avoid round smooth stones (river rock, pea gravel) where stability is needed.

Can I mix gravel types in the same area?

Yes — in fact, the best driveway design uses two different types: crusher run base for stability and crushed stone surface for aesthetics and drainage. Mixing decorative types (pea gravel + river rock) can look attractive in garden beds.

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