Gravel vs Crushed Stone — Which Do You Need?

Key differences

Feature	Natural Gravel	Crushed Stone
Edge shape	Rounded (smooth)	Angular (sharp)
How it’s made	Natural water erosion	Machine-crushed rock
Compaction	Poor — shifts and moves	Good — locks together
Drainage	Excellent	Good
Best use	Drainage, decorative, French drains	Driveways, base layers, paths

Common types and their uses

Name	Type	Size	Best used for
Pea gravel	Natural	¼”–½”	Paths, playgrounds, landscaping
River rock	Natural	½”–4”	Drainage, decorative, dry creek beds
#57 stone	Crushed	¾”	Drainage, French drains, base layer
#67 stone	Crushed	¾”–1”	Drainage, pipe bedding
Crusher run	Crushed	0”–¾”	Driveway base, compacting sub-base
Decomposed granite	Crushed	Fine	Paths, patios, xeriscape
Washed clean stone	Crushed	½”–1”	French drains, under slabs

What to use for each project

Driveway

Layer 1 (base): 4–6 inches of crusher run, compacted
Layer 2 (surface): 2–3 inches of 1½” or ¾” crushed stone
Avoid pea gravel or river rock on driveways — they don’t compact and will rut.

French drain

#57 washed stone or ¾” clean crushed stone. Angular edges prevent migration into the drain pipe while allowing maximum water flow.

Walkways and paths

Pea gravel or decomposed granite — comfortable underfoot, visually appealing.

Under pavers or concrete slabs

Crusher run or #57 stone — compacts to form a stable, level base.

Decorative landscaping

River rock or pea gravel — looks natural, available in many colors and sizes.

Cost comparison

Material	Price per ton	Price per cu yd
Pea gravel	$35–$65	$35–$55
River rock	$40–$75	$40–$65
#57 crushed stone	$25–$45	$30–$50
Crusher run	$20–$35	$25–$40
Decomposed granite	$30–$55	$35–$55

Prices vary by region and delivery distance.