Pea Gravel Calculator
Calculate cubic yards of pea gravel for paths, playgrounds, and landscaping
Enter Dimensions
Enter your dimensions above to see results
Tips & Notes
- •2"–3" depth is standard for decorative paths and landscaping.
- •Playground safety surfacing needs 6"–12" deep.
- •Install landscape fabric underneath to prevent weeds and sinking.
- •Pea gravel shifts underfoot — use edging to contain it.
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Materials & Supplies
Tools You'll Need
Pro tips for pea gravel
- ›2"–3" depth is standard for decorative paths and landscaping.
- ›Playground safety surfacing needs 6"–12" deep.
- ›Install landscape fabric underneath to prevent weeds and sinking.
- ›Pea gravel shifts underfoot — use edging to contain it.
Frequently asked questions
How much pea gravel do I need for a 100 sq ft path?▾
At 2" depth, 100 sq ft needs 0.62 cubic yards (about 17 cubic feet). At 3" depth, you need 0.93 yards. Order 1 cubic yard for a typical path to allow for settling and edge spread.
Can I park a car on pea gravel?▾
Pea gravel shifts under tire load and tracks easily — it's not ideal for driveways. If you must, use a stabilization grid system underneath and edge the entire area with metal or stone. Crusher run or #57 stone is far better for vehicle areas.
What size is pea gravel?▾
Pea gravel is rounded stones from 1/4" to 3/8" — about the size of a pea. The smooth, rounded shape makes it comfortable underfoot but means it doesn't compact like crushed stone. It's mostly decorative.
How deep should pea gravel be for a playground?▾
Playground safety surfacing needs 9"–12" of pea gravel for fall protection up to 5 feet of equipment height. For decorative landscape beds, 2"–3" is enough. Always edge to keep it from spreading.
How much does pea gravel cost in 2026?▾
Pea gravel runs $35–$75/cubic yard delivered ($20–$45/ton). Bagged at retail (0.5 cu ft bags) runs $4–$8 each. For paths under 0.25 cubic yards, bags are convenient; for landscape beds and playgrounds, bulk delivery saves significantly.