Gravel might seem like a small detail, but it can make or break your landscape design—literally. The right type offers durability, proper drainage, and low maintenance, while the wrong choice can lead to shifting pathways, muddy garden beds, or waterlogged corners. That’s why understanding which types of gravel work best for different landscaping needs isn’t just helpful—it’s essential for a long-lasting, polished finish.
In 2025, landscaping trends are leaning toward functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics—and the right gravel can deliver a wide variety of landscaping benefits if you choose wisely. Whether you're working on a modern walkway, a cozy garden bed, or a no-fuss driveway, each gravel type has a specific job.
This blog outlines the best types of gravel for landscaping this year, so you can skip the trial and error and build something that actually lasts.
What Is Gravel and What Are Its Uses in Landscaping?
Gravel isn't just decorative—it's the backbone of many smart landscaping choices, including utilizing landscape rocks. It provides structure, helps with drainage, and adds texture without overpowering your design. Whether you want something sleek, rustic, or low-maintenance, gravel adapts.
Key uses of gravel in landscaping:
-
Improves Drainage: Prevents water-logging in gardens and walkways.
-
Defines Spaces: Separates garden beds, paths, and patio zones with clean edges, while also preventing smaller stones from escaping into the grass area.
-
Adds Texture & Contrast: Complements softscapes like grass or plants.
-
Low Maintenance Ground Cover: A smart alternative to mulch or turf.
Overall, gravel does more than look good—it solves real design and maintenance challenges in a natural, budget-friendly way.
Top 11 Types of Gravel for Landscape Design in 2025
Gravel comes in a wide variety of types, each offering unique benefits like superior drainage, ground stability, and textural contrast—making it a versatile solution for everything from driveways to drought-tolerant gardens. Let's check out these 11 types of gravel that are set to be the stars of landscape design.
1. Pea Gravel
Pea gravel is perfect for walkways and patios where comfort underfoot matters. Its smooth, round stones and variety of natural colors make it a crowd favorite.
Why it works:
-
It feels great to walk on
-
Adds soft texture to garden beds
-
It helps suppress weeds naturally
2. Decomposed Granite
Decomposed granite brings rustic charm to a grounded, earthy look. Its compactability makes it ideal for paths and seating areas that stay in place.
Why it works:
-
Low maintenance and budget-friendly
-
Excellent drainage
-
Creates a cohesive, natural finish
3. 3/4-1.5" Construction Gravel
If your yard gets a lot of action—from parked cars to heavy foot traffic—this is your go-to. This gravel type is made for strength, not just looks.
Why it works:
-
Provides a solid base for driveways
-
Reduces erosion in sloped areas
-
Tough enough for heavy loads
4. River Rock
Naturally rounded by years of water flow, river rocks offer more than just visual appeal—they're excellent for erosion control, promote natural drainage, and provide stable ground cover for sloped or high-flow areas.
Why it works:
-
Great for dry creek beds or edging
-
Visually softens garden design
-
Adds texture without clutter
5. Marble Chips
White and highly reflective, marble chips aren’t just for looks—they help regulate soil temperature by reflecting sunlight and are perfect for brightening shaded garden areas or highlighting architectural features. They also brighten shady spots and deliver serious curb appeal.
Why it works:
-
Keeps soil cool
-
Excellent weed blocker
-
It makes dark green foliage pop
6. Crushed Granite Gravel
Are you looking to keep it functional and elegant? Crushed granite and crushed stone offer sharp edges for better grip while still giving your yard that polished look.
Why it works:
-
Great for pathways and driveways
-
Prevents soil washout
-
Strong visual contrast
7. Lava Rock
Lava rock is lightweight but bold, bringing texture and a dramatic color palette. It's a heat-retaining mulch alternative with a visual attitude.
Why it works:
-
It helps soil retain moisture
-
Stays put in windy areas
-
Great backdrop for succulents
8. Flagstone
For homeowners craving structure with style, flagstone makes garden paths feel intentional and high-end—without looking overly manicured.
Why it works:
-
Flat and slip-resistant
-
Natural variation enhances the design
-
Feels solid underfoot
9. River Jack
Similar to river rock but softer in tone, river jack offers a smooth and subtle visual appeal. It plays well around water features or is laid out like artwork.
Why it works:
-
Ideal for fountains or ponds
-
It doesn't compete with colorful plants
-
Adds softness to structured gardens
10. Brick Chips
Red, warm, and nostalgic brick chips feel timeless. They're a great fit if you're into classic styles or want to tie your landscaping into a brick exterior.
Why it works:
-
Long-lasting and eco-friendly
-
It helps prevent soil splash
-
Enhances traditional home exteriors
11. Mexican Beach Pebbles
Mexican Beach Pebbles are smooth, black, or grey stones that are basically spa vibes in rock form. If you dream of a Zen escape in your backyard—this is it.
Why it works:
-
Elegant contrast for modern gardens
-
Great for water features or minimalist design
-
Low maintenance and luxurious feel
Are you considering buying any of these stones for your next project? Excellent; we, at Beach Pebbles Direct offer premium quality pebbles at affordable rates. Visit our collection page and get your hands on them now!
What Are Some Innovative Landscaping Ideas Utilizing Gravel?
Now that you're aware of different types of pebbles for landscaping, let's check out some of the innovative landscaping ideas using gravel.
1. Gravel Pathways and Walkways
Want a path that feels both natural and charming? Gravel's your best friend. It gives your garden an organic flow, guides guests easily, and skips the cracking and fading you get from concrete. It's also a lifesaver in rainy climates—no puddles, no mud trails, making it ideal for play areas and dog runs. Whether you're curving it through flower beds or lining it beside raised planters, gravel adapts beautifully to any layout. And the best part? It's budget-friendly and easy to refresh.
2. Gravel Patios and Deck Zones
Do you think patios need pavers or pricey tiles? Think again. A gravel patio feels relaxed but refined—and it pairs perfectly with lounge chairs, a fire pit, or a shady pergola. It's low-maintenance, drains like a dream, and protects against weeds and weather. Want to carve out a space for weekend hangouts or quiet evening reading? Lay some gravel, add string lights, and voilà: your new favorite spot is born.
3. Gravel Around Water Features and Fountains
Water features add calm, and gravel adds contrast. Together, they're landscaping gold. Lining your pond, fountain, or birdbath with smooth stones like pea gravel or river rock makes the water sparkle and helps control drainage. Try using darker-toned gravel as accent pieces to frame your water feature—it draws the eye and creates focal points that make surrounding greenery pop. It's a subtle touch, but it elevates the entire look.
4. Gravel in Flower Beds and Garden Borders
Here's a quick win for both plant health and curb appeal: add gravel or wood mulch to your flower beds. It locks in moisture, keeps weeds down, and protects roots from harsh sunlight. White marble chips brighten shady areas, while lava rocks serve as an effective mulch replacement that slowly releases heat and water—great for drought-tolerant rock gardens. Plus, using gravel as a clean border gives your garden a tidy, intentional feel without constant upkeep.
How to Choose the Right Types of Landscaping Pebbles?
With so many gravel options out there, it's easy to get stuck. But when you focus on the right factors—like drainage, style, durability, and local weather—you can narrow it down pretty quickly. Here's what to keep in mind.
1. Pay Attention to Drainage
Gravel is naturally great at moving water away from surfaces, which means fewer puddles and less erosion. If you're in a rainy or snowy area, go for larger stones like river rock or construction gravel. For drier climates, smaller types like pea gravel or decomposed granite will do the job just fine, depending on the specific range of sizes of rock you choose.
2. Match the Aesthetic
Gravel should flow with your existing design, not fight against it. Choose textures, colors, and sizes that blend well with your plants, patios, and other features. White marble chips work beautifully in modern spaces, while red lava rocks or river rocks lean more natural and earthy.
3. Think About Longevity
Most gravel types are low-maintenance, but some last longer than others. Marble chips keep their color and shape for years. Softer gravels, like limestone, might need the occasional top-up. Besides, denser stones like river rock are a smart pick if you want durability.
4. Consider Your Local Climate
Your local weather should guide your choice. In hot areas, lighter gravels reflect heat and keep spaces cooler. In wet or stormy regions, larger gravel handles runoff better. And if the wind's often blowing through your yard, go with heavier stones that stay put.
5. Choose a Provider that Offers Expert Consultation
Gravel projects need more than just rocks—they need the right base, grade, and layout. An expert helps you avoid costly mistakes and ensures your gravel choice stands up to wear, weather, and time. Plus if you randomly place orders without any consultation, you may end up buying the wrong options.
Meanwhile, if you want high-quality stones at an affordable price, Beach Pebbles Direct is your trusted source, offering premium bulk landscape pebbles at competitive prices. Since 2016, we’ve been the go-to supplier of high-quality Pebbles, serving both residential and commercial clients across the U.S.
Whether you're exploring different types or already set on a specific look, we offer a wide variety of sizes and colors to suit any project—modern, coastal, or natural. On top of that, we have 5-star ratings on Google.
See what our customers have to say about us:
"Fantastic selection with great pricing! Amazing customer service and my order came on time with no issues. I’m definitely going to order again from Beach Pebbles Direct! P.s. ask for Matt or Laura!"
"Beach Pebbles Direct turned my property into a luxurious oasis! My landscaping looks magazine worthy now!!! The team listened to all my wants and needs and guided me throughout the entire process since I had no clue what would look best and suit all my needs.Their customer service was impeccable! I could not recommend them enough - truly the best in the business! I’ve got the nicest house on the block now :))) Hiring them to elevate the properties where my businesses are located next!!! CAN’T WAIT!!"
"Highly recommended, wish I knew about beach pebbles direct last year. My clients were very happy."
Ready to upgrade your landscape? Explore our full selection of premium gravel and get fast, reliable delivery—nationwide. Contact Us Today to get started!
Conclusion: Why Gravel Belongs in Your Landscape
Gravel elevates outdoor spaces with minimal effort, ideally for creating tiered yards. It adds structure, texture, and character while keeping things low-maintenance and functional. Whether you're building a path, filling in garden beds, or designing around a patio or water feature, gravel gives you flexibility without sacrificing style.
From boosting drainage to controlling weeds, gravel does more than just look good. With so many types, sizes, and tones to choose from, it's easy to match your gravel choice to your overall landscape vision—be it clean and modern or natural and earthy.
As you plan your landscape for 2025, gravel offers a practical, beautiful way to tie everything together. Thoughtfully placed, it becomes a design feature in its own right—one that works quietly in the background while enhancing every part of your outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much gravel do I need for my project?
The amount of gravel needed will depend on the area you want to cover and the desired depth of the gravel layer. A landscape supplier's knowledgeable staff or a gravel calculator can assist you with accurate calculations based on your project's specifics, especially when considering using smaller rocks for optimal results.
Can gravel be used for both aesthetic and functional purposes in landscaping?
Absolutely! Gravel is not only aesthetically pleasing but also serves several functional purposes. It contributes to overall landscape drainage, minimizes weed growth, outlines certain spaces or features, and can provide a stable surface in high-traffic areas.
What should I consider before choosing gravel for different weather conditions?
Your choice of gravel should consider drainage needs, especially in areas with heavy rainfall. In windy areas, choose heavier stones. In hot climates, lighter-colored gravel can help reflect heat, whereas larger stones offering better drainage could be more suitable in colder climates.
Can landscaping stones be used to build a stone wall?
Yes, many homeowners use large stones or stacked flat rocks to create sturdy, natural-looking stone walls for garden borders or elevation changes.