How to Install River Rock Stepping Stones

River rocks are small, round gravel rocks that can be found in a variety of colors including white, black, red, green, blue and brown. They can be set in concrete forms or molds to create round and square stepping-stones, which you can use to create walkways and natural garden paths over grass, sand and mud. A river rock path is pleasing to the eye as it protects grass from wear and tear and provides safe, easy access to your house or garden. Creating a path that is solid and safe to walk on begins with correct installation of the stepping-stones.

River rock stepping-stones
Small shovel
Sand
Level
Rubber mallet

Instructions

- 1
  Plot your path using paper and pencil. Primary paths that get a lot of foot traffic, such as those from the door to a gate, should be straight and easy to follow. Secondary paths that lead to gardens and beyond usually have natural and logical curves, such as around a tree, shrub, garden sculpture or gazebo. Paths that curve and disappear around a corner add mystery and draw attention to what lies beyond.
- 2
  Clear the path of any weeds or shrubbery that may be in the way.
- 3
  Lay the river rock stepping-stones in the path. Position them close enough so that an average child can easily step from one stone to another. The stones can be placed next to each other or with several inches of space between them. Scatter the stones in various places to create an interesting pattern or alternate between square and round stepping-stones.
- 4
  Use a small shovel to dig out the location of each stepping-stone.
- 5
  Fill the hole with 1 to 2 inches of sand in order to level the river rock.
- 6
  Place stepping-stone into the hole with the decorative river rock facing upwards. The stones can be raised above, below or placed flush with the ground.
- 7
  Place a level on top of the stone to position accordingly. It can be adjusted by tapping it with a rubber mallet.
- 8
  Pack the stone in place with dirt.
- 9
  Continue procedure until all river rock stepping-stones are in place and you have created the path.

How to Make a Landscape Path

How to Build a Walkway With Pavers

Landscaping Walks & Pathways