Basking Rocks For Bearded Dragons – The 5 Best Options

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Do you need help finding the best basking rocks for bearded dragons? I know how stressful selecting one can be with all the available choices.

Avon Vets state that the basking area temperature should be 95-100°F and warn to never use hot rocks as they can result in burns. (1)

I created a guide to make this process easier for other beardie owners after going through the process myself.

I found these options by basing my research on several research metrics. Here’s a quick look at them to provide more insight into this process:

• Basking rock size
• Durability
• Style and theme of designs
• Materials used in the rock’s construction
• Value of cost
• Comfort level
• Stability

CHECK: Best Toys for Bearded Dragons

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Don’t have time? Check this comparison table of our top faves!

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5 Best Basking Rocks Reviews – Top Picks

Limiting my selection to five basking rocks was quite tricky. However, these five options stood out much more than other available choices.

Now, let’s dive into what options these metrics led me to choose. I’m confident one of these rocks will be the perfect option for your dragon’s enclosure.

#1 Winner: Carolina Custom Cages Rock Arch

Carolina Custom Cages’ Rock Arch would be a beautiful addition to any beardie enclosure. Its reddish-brown arch design offers a perfect spot for beardie basking.

In fact, I doubt a beardie will ever want to leave this resin rock formulation. It’s even large enough to hold an adult dragon without any issues.

Owners will also love its stability compared to other rocks. It’ll have no trouble remaining stable and preventing tipping or other accidents.

I was intrigued by its lightweight design if these features weren’t enough. It makes relocating the rock around your beardie’s tank much easier.

Versatility is another area where this rock excels. You can place it anywhere inside a tank while it’s usable for most pet reptiles.

The only concern with this product is its complex cleaning process. But I wouldn’t worry too much about it as most customers didn’t find it a massive issue.

Features & Attributes

• Rock arch design
• Hidden cave opening
• Reddish-brown color
• Made from hardened resin
• Lightweight construction

Measurements

• 19″L x 8.25″W x 6.375″H
• 5 pounds

Pros of Carolina Custom Cages Rock Arch

• Perfect size for an adult bearded dragon
• Stable construction to avoid accidents
• Easy to relocate with a lightweight design
• Usable for various reptiles
• No sharp edges or safety concerns

Cons of Carolina Custom Cages Rock Arch

• Difficult to clean

How it Compares to Others

This rock’s size is its main beneficial attribute. After all, it’s hard to find a basking rock capable of holding an adult bearded dragon.

But this one does without breaking a sweat. Of course, it also helps that this model doesn’t have sharp edges or present any safety concerns.

Expert Tips

The manufacturer recommends using soapy water and chlorhexidine to clean the rock. But if it doesn’t work, I’d recommend using the methods demonstrated in this video:

What influencers say about this:

One Amazon reviewer went out of their way to praise the rock’s overall quality. The brand took its time constructing this basking rock.

Where to Buy

Make sure to check our complete list of the best bearded dragon accessories.

#2 Best for Baby Bearded Dragons: Penn-Plax Reptology Shale Step Ledge

The Penn-Plax Reptology Shale Step Ledge offers a killer rock formulation design. It’s an attractive choice for anyone who wants to provide a dragon with their first basking rock.

Features & Attributes

• Sizes: Small, Medium, Extra Large, Large, Large 1, Large 2, and Stone Extra Large
• Rock formation design
• Made from reliable, high-quality resin
• Four entrances/exits
• Lightweight construction

Measurements

• 7 x 9 x 3.5 inches (medium)

Pros of Penn-Plax Reptology Shale Step Ledge

• Ideal for baby bearded dragon use
• Excellent climbing structure
• Comfortable design quality
• Various hiding spots for a beardie
• Durable and stable quality

Cons of Penn-Plax Reptology Shale Step Ledge

• All sizes too small for adult bearded dragons
• Shipping concerns
• Posses a few sharp edges (recommend sanding them down)

How it Compares to Others

It earns a place on this list by being ideally suited for baby dragons. It’s a small structure perfect for cultivating their climbing abilities.

Meanwhile, it’s hard not to love this rock’s multiple hiding spots. I know my dragon would absolutely love hanging out in them.

Expert Tips

Expect this rock platform to be less useful for adult dragons. Here’s a video of an adult trying to climb one to give you an idea:

What influencers say about this:

One Amazon reviewer referred to this rock as sturdy, lightweight, and perfect for a juvenile dragon.

Where to Buy

If you’re looking for comfortable beds for your bearded dragon or a spacious playpen for them to roam around in, be sure to check out our articles on ‘beds for bearded dragons‘ and ‘bearded dragon play pen‘ for some helpful tips and recommendations.

#3 Best DIY Option: MooseheadSlate Natural Black Slate Basking Rock

Basking rocks don’t get much more beautiful than MooseheadSlate’s Natural Black Slate Basking Rock. These real rocks will class up your beardie’s enclosure immediately.

Features & Attributes

• Handmade
• Natural, dense slate slabs
• Black coloring
• Free shipping
• Each piece is selected for its uniqueness

Measurements

• Minimum dimensions: 4”L x 5” W x ⅜’ thickness
• Maximum dimensions: 12” L x 10” W x 1-inch thickness
• 15 pounds

Pros of MooseheadSlate Natural Black Slate Basking Rock

• Incredibly durable and high-quality
• Customization for sizes available
• Excellent heat conduction
• Simple to clean
• Perfect for various situations and applications

Cons of MooseheadSlate Natural Black Slate Basking Rock

• Long shipping time frame
• DIY stacking required
• Pieces may come cracked or chipped

How it Compares to Others

Quality rocks are hard to come across. But these flat rocks are pristine and ready to be used in various situations.

However, I must mention that buyers will have to stack the rocks themselves. This option is more of a DIY project than a traditional basking rock platform.

Expert Tips

Check out this video for tips on building your DIY rock ledges and basking rocks. It’ll come in handy when you get these slate rocks.

What influencers say about this:

One Esty reviewer couldn’t have been happier with the rocks’ condition and cleaning process.

Where to Buy

#4 Best for Climbing: MagNaturals Rock Ledge

Encouraging a beardie’s climbing skill has never been easier than with MagNaturals’ Rock Ledge. It’ll be moving all over like it’s a part of his natural habitat of rock formations.

Features & Attributes

• Colors: Earth, Granite, Mojave
• Sizes; Small, Medium, and Large
• Rock ledge formation
• Made from Polyurethane Foam Resin
• 100% non-toxic materials
• Adjustable mounting with magnet attachments

Measurements

• 12 x 8 x 7 inches (large)
• 1 pound

Pros of MagNaturals Rock Ledge

• Excellent choice for climbing beardies
• Simple to install or move
• Tough, strong construction
• Effortless to clean
• Multiple buying options for user convenience

Cons of MagNaturals Rock Ledge

• Beardie must weigh under a pound to use
• It isn’t as natural looking as other options
• Shipping issues

How it Compares to Others

Aside from being perfect for climbing, this model is effortless to maintain. I couldn’t imagine how it wouldn’t be a long-term staple in your beardie’s tank.

Expert Tips

Check out this video for anyone who wants a visual aid about how the magnets work.

What influencers say about this:

This YouTube review has some high praise for rock ledge’s Mojave version. They even go as far as saying it’s more than worth the money.

Where to Buy

#5 Best Non-Rock Basking Platform: Universal Rocks Reptile Basking Log

Universal Rocks’ Reptile Basking Log differs from these other choices. After all, it was constructed from an actual wood log rather than usable rocks.

But I needed to include it on this list because of its long-term usability. Plus, it offers a much more realistic aesthetic than most other choices.

Features & Attributes

• Basking log platform
• Made from a natural wood and non-toxic materials
• Lightweight design
• Crushed rocks and sand infused into the log for coloration
• Machine washable

Measurements

• 39″ L x 7″ W x 7″ H

Pros of Universal Rocks Reptile Basking Log

• Reliable, durable construction
• Promotes a realistic aesthetic
• Easy to clean
• An outstanding choice for larger enclosures
• Excellent for beardie climbing

Cons of Universal Rocks Reptile Basking Log

• A higher-priced option
• Too large for smaller enclosures

How it Compares to Others

The realistic nature of this basking platform has made it a favorite among beardie lovers. It’ll be an effortless fit into most enclosures.

Expert Tips

If the initial payment is too much, a 4-month installment plan is available. I suggest watching this video showing the other products to trick out your beardie’s enclosure even more:

What influencers say about this:

It’s become a favorite among reviewers on Customreptilehabitats for its massive size and comfortable surface material.

Where to Buy

Things To Consider When Choosing Basking Rocks For Bearded Dragons

Basking rocks have become an essential component of enriching a beardie’s life. So it makes sense that many owners have looked to purchase one.

The following will cover what makes them essential and several buying factors. Then, it’ll ensure you can easily find a suitable one for your favorite beardie.

#1 What is the Purpose of a Basking Rock?

It makes sense to start by identifying why your beardie needs a basking rock. After all, why would any pet lover buy a product without knowing its benefits?

So the most straightforward reason for buying one is it provides your dragon with a warm, dry resting place. He can then use it for basking and regulating his body temperature.

Meanwhile, this basking process allows your beardie to absorb UVB rays (2). These rays are essential to keeping their skin healthy and shedding reasonably.

You can also expect basking to help with your beardie’s appetite. A warm basking spot will increase their metabolism, encouraging them to eat the provided meals.

For instance, adding a basking rock in my dragon’s enclosure has solved his pickiness. He now eats his food whenever I put it inside the cage without hesitation.

As a result, the basking process is something that owners need to encourage (2). It’ll help improve your beardie’s life in too many ways not to be seen as useful.

#2 Basking Rock Size

One mistake beardie owners make is buying an improperly sized basking rock. In these cases, their dragon can’t get their entire body on the rock, limiting its impact.

So make sure to buy a rock that has enough space to fit your beardie’s entire body. Otherwise, it won’t maximize the benefits you’re looking for when introducing a basking rock.

Most manufacturers make finding a suitable-sized rock easy by offering several sizes. You can then measure your beardie (head to tail) and match the dimensions.

#3 Style and Theme of Design

Basking rocks come in various styles and designs. Of course, this aspect isn’t the most vital factor in this process, but I’m a stickler for creating a specific theme for my dragon’s enclosure.

For instance, my dragon has a desert background image in his cage. So a basking rock made from shale makes a lot of sense to him.

It’s also quite fun to create this natural habitat for your beardie. Some options include “woodlands, coastal dunes, heathland, tropical savannahs, and deserts” (4).

Honestly, I see cultivating this habit as a bonding experience. But it’s a bonding experience that he probably doesn’t even realize is happening.

Another thing to consider is the texture and patterns of each basking rock. Make sure to find one that meshes with your beardie’s needs.

In other words, if he doesn’t like walking on certain surfaces, don’t buy a basking rock made from that material.

#4 Durability and Construction Material

Bearded dragon owners must ensure each basking rock is made from durable material. It needs to hold up for a long time without any issues.

One of the more common problems is basking platforms/rocks rotting. So I suggest avoiding options made from wood unless all-natural oils have been removed.

It’s why I often recommend sticking with platforms/rocks made from natural rock. These options won’t have any durability issues and promote a more productive basking process.

But one issue with natural rock options is that the surface can get too hot. From there, it can then burn your beardie and cause them discomfort.

So anyone who gets a natural rock option will need to be aware of this problem. You may want to move the rock from your heating lamp every once in a while.

Other customers’ reviews will also come in handy when researching this factor. They’ll tell you how well the product holds up and discuss any concerning qualities.

I can’t tell you how many times these resources have saved me from buying a lousy product. It’s vital to ensure your beardie gets all the best products.

#5 Price

Basking rocks and platforms will vary greatly when it comes to price. Each buyer must consider this variation by constructing a budget based on their preferred features.

Once you do, your budget will become very useful in limiting the available options. You’ll choose from a collection of basking rocks that meet your specific needs.

It makes the entire buying process much simpler and less overwhelming.

FAQs

Final Recommendation

The best basking rocks for bearded dragons will provide a relaxing location where your beardie can soak up much-needed UVB rays. It’ll become their favorite spot in no time.

But if I had to recommend one option, it’d have to be Carolina Custom Cages’ Rock Arch. It does everything a beardie owner could want from a basking rock.

However, it’s time to use what you’ve learned and find a perfect option for your beardie. Let me know what you decide in the comment section!

Resources

• 1. Caring for your Bearded Dragon [Internet]. www.avonvets.co.uk. [cited 2022 Nov 8]. Available from: https://www.avonvets.co.uk/pet-care-advice/other-pets/caring-for-your-bearded-dragon#:~:text=The%20temperature%20under%20the%20light
• 2. Ultraviolet Light and Reptiles, Amphibians [Internet]. Reptile UV Info. Journal of Herpetological Medicine and Surgery; 2003 [cited 2022 Nov 8]. Available from: https://reptileuvinfo.com/docs/ultraviolet-light-and-reptiles-amphibians.pdf
• 3. Oldfield CL. Bearded Dragons: common husbandry and nutrition-related problems. Veterinary Nursing Journal. 2014;29:354–7.
• 4. Bearded Dragons [Internet]. Bush Heritage Australia. Available from: https://www.bushheritage.org.au/species/bearded-dragons#:~:text=Bearded%20dragons%20live%20in%20woodlands