How much pea gravel for a 10×10 area?
Quick Answer
A 10×10 foot area covered with 2 inches of pea gravel needs 0.62 cubic yards — roughly 0.84 tons (1,680 lbs). That's about 34 bags of 50-lb pea gravel. For a deeper 3-inch layer: 0.93 cubic yards. For a playground or path, 2–3 inches is standard; for drainage, 4–6 inches.
Quick Reference Table
| Depth | Pea gravel for 10×10 area |
|---|---|
| 1 inch | 0.31 yd³ / 0.42 tons / 17 bags |
| 2 inches | 0.62 yd³ / 0.84 tons / 34 bags |
| 3 inches | 0.93 yd³ / 1.26 tons / 50 bags |
| 4 inches | 1.23 yd³ / 1.67 tons / 67 bags |
| 6 inches | 1.85 yd³ / 2.50 tons / 100 bags |
How to Calculate It Yourself
- 1
Volume: 10 × 10 × (2/12) = 16.67 cu ft ÷ 27 = 0.62 yd³.
- 2
Weight: pea gravel is ~1.35 tons/yd³. 0.62 × 1.35 = 0.84 tons = 1,680 lbs.
- 3
Bags: 1,680 ÷ 50 (lb per bag) = 33.6 → buy 34 bags.
- 4
For bulk delivery: 0.62 yd³ is below most delivery minimums (usually 1 yard). Buy bags or order 1 yard and use leftovers.
Pro Tip
Pea gravel doesn't compact and migrates easily — it's better for decorative beds and playgrounds than for paths or driveways. For paths, use angular crushed stone (3/8" or 3/4") which interlocks and stays in place under foot traffic.
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