crystal mining tours near me

Caves and mines in Upstate NY: 12 fun places for outdoor, underground adventures

• Updated: May. 29, 2019, 8:37 a.m. |
• Published: May. 29, 2019, 8:26 a.m.
• Ngoc Huynh | [email protected]

Whether you want to discover gems or witness  geological treasures, the mines and caves in Upstate New York do not disappoint.

Prospectors young and old can dig for Herkimer diamonds in and around Herkimer County. These double-terminated quartz crystals (pointed on each end) were created in specific geologic conditions more than 450 million years ago.

For adrenaline junkies, NY state has plenty of caves and caverns to explore. Known as "spelunking," cave hiking will provide an abundance of fossils, mineral deposits, and ancient geological structures with lots of history.

Here are 12 places to check out below.

Prospectors digging for Herkimer diamonds at Herkimer Diamond KOA Resort. (Gary Walts | Syracuse.com)

Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort

This place is a mining entertainment center. It has three quarries and plenty of attractions and activities. High-end accommodations include solar luxury cabins, a tree house lodge, and even an astronomy themed lodge with its own observatory and telescope. The Scialdo family purchased the Herkimer Diamond KOA in 1979. Dr. Renee' Scialdo-Shevat and her father Rudy currently run the facility today. Across the street from the mines is the KOA Resort, situated on the West Canada Creek. Dining options include a restaurant, cafe, and breakfast joint. The Herkimer Diamond Mines KOA Resort was named Campground of the year in 2010.

Phone : 315-717-0175 for mining and 315-891-355 for campground.

Address : KOA Resort Campground,4626 State Route 28, Herkimer, NY 13350. Miners' Village, 4601 State Route 28, Herkimer, NY 13350.

Hours : 9 a.m to 5 p.m. daily. Season starts in April and runs through November.

Cost : $14 age 13 and older, $12 age 5 to 12, and free age 4 and younger. Admission includes an all day prospecting wristband ticket, use of a rock hammer, zip lock bags, and mining information.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground

Young and old adventurers can dig for treasures here. During your visit, dress for the outdoors wearing old clothes, shoes for climbing over rocks and mud, as well as gloves, hats and safety glasses. Bring your own hammers, chisels, and small garden tools. If you want to rent tools, they range from $1 to $6. Camping is available onsite with showers and restrooms are open 24 hours. Camping rates are $20 per night for two people and add $1 for each additional person.

Phone : (315) 891-3855

Address : 84 Herkimer St., Middleville, NY 13406

Hours : 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from April 1 to Oct. 31.

Cost : $10 age 8 and older; $5 age 4-7; and free age 3 and younger. For those who are serious miners, there's a personalized service which includes three 100,000-pound excavators, and cost for the day is $1,900.

Crystal Grove Diamond Mine and Campground

Come relax in this spacious campground by a stream surrounded by trees in the Central Leatherstocking region. Check out many species of bird and wildflower at Crystal Grove and try your hand at mining. Various types of camping accommodations are available. They include cabins, tents, and water/electric hook ups ranging from $32 to $115.

Phone : (518) 568-2914

Address : 161 Co Road 114, St. Johnsville, NY 13452

Hours : 9 a.m. to sundown from mid-April through mid-October.

Cost : For non-campers cost is $12 age 12 and older; $10 age 5-11; and free for age 4 and younger. For campers, cost is $8 age 12 and older; $5 age 5-11 and free ages 4 and younger.

Diamond Acres

Also known as the Margaret Hastings Farm, Diamond Acres is surrounded by miles of beautiful Amish farmland where horses and wagons share the road with cars. Bring your own tools for digging.

Phone : (518) 853-4201

Address : 1706 Stone Arabia Rd., Fonda, NY 12068

Hours : Opens from sun up until sundown from May 1 to Oct. 1.

Cost : Dig fees are $5 per day for age 13 and older and $2 per day age 12 and younger.

Garnet Mine Tours

Located in the Adirondack Mountains since 1878, Barton Mines is one of the oldest family-owned operating mines in the United States. The garnets found in this mine on Gore Mountain have the largest crystal formations of any garnet mine known in the world. The garnet crystals, also known as the hardest in the world, are 12 sided. In the old days, these hardy stones were extracted for their use in products like sandpaper. Now, these garnets are used for waterjet cutting and surface preparation. The Governor of New York, Nelson Rockefeller, made garnet the state's gem stone in 1969.

The Garnet Mine Tour starts at at the Gore Mountain Mineral Shop, and then guests will follow the guide to the site of the Garnet Mines. You'll learn some history and geology of the Garnet Mine and how to find your own gemstones.

Phone : (518) 251-2706

Address : 1126 Barton Mines Road, North River, NY 12856

Hours : 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m, Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Season usually starts mid-June through October.

Cost : $13.95 adult, $9.95 age 7-14, $12.95 senior, and free age 6 and younger. Any rock and gemstones collected on the tour cost $1 per pound.

Howe Caverns

Founded by a farmer named Lester Howe in 1842, this is the largest cave open to the public in the Northeast. It's the #2 most visited natural attraction in New York State after Niagara Falls . Head 156 feet below ground and tour the magnificent limestone caverns featuring stunning geological formations and an underground lake millions of years in the making.

Phone : 518-296-8900

Address : 255 Discovery Drive, Howes Cave, NY, 12092

Hours : 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.

Cost : $25 adult age 16-64, $22 senior, $21 age 12-15, $13 age 5-11, and free age 4 and younger. Check site for other available specialty tours.

Lockport Cave & Underground Boat Ride

Check out a 70-minute guided historical tour through America's past. Guests will explore the historic Erie Canal Locks 67-71 constructed in 1838 and view ruins from an early industrial age. You'll see unique geological formations and artifacts left behind by the men who build the tunnel in the early days of the Erie Canal. The underground boat tour will bring you through the tunnels and explain the historic connection to the Erie Canals and industrial expansion throughout Western New York .

Phone : (716) 438-0174

Address : 5 Gooding Street, Lockport, NY, 14094

Hours : Varies, depending on month and days, but in June it's 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except for the first two weeks. Check hours here .

Cost : $17.50 adult, $12.25 age 6-13, $3.50 age 5 and younger.

Natural Stone Bridge and Caves Park

Come and explore the natural wonder in the Adirondack Mountains. Featuring the largest marble cave entrance in the eastern U.S., this park features above-ground trails to witness several cave entrances, grottos with raging water or peaceful dark pools, waterfalls and a gorge. For those who are more adventurous, sign up for a guided tour for some wading and crawling through caves before passing through a waterfall into a river and floating down a tunnel of caves.

In winter, take on a snowshoe hike through the woods or play disc golf.

Phone : 518-494-2283

Address : 535 Stone Bridge Road, Pottersville, NY, 12860

Hours : Summer self-guided tours runs 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from May 24 to Sept. 2 and 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. from Sept. 3 to Oct. 14. Guided tour is available, call to make reservations.

Cost : Self-guided tours admission is $15.50 adult, $8.50 for age 5-12, and free for age 4 and younger. For price of other tours, check site .

Panama Rocks Scenic Park

Located 15 minutes from Chautauqua Lake, here is a place to explore a world of towering rocks, deep crevices, passageways, and small caves. The rock formations extend about half-a-mile through a forest and reach upwards of 60 feet tall. Grotesque roots snake down the rocks and delicate ferns, mosses, and lichens add to Panama Rock’s unique, jungle-like charm.

Phone : (716)782-2845

Address : 11 Rock Hill Road, Panama, NY 14767

Hours : 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from early May through October

Cost : $8 cash or $8.25 credit for adult, $5.50 cash or $5.70 credit for age 6-12, and free for age 5 and younger.

Secret Caverns

Secret Caverns is a small commercial cavern founded by local civil engineer Roger Mallery in 1928. Visitors can expect a 45 minute to 1 hour guided walk through unsullied but accessible prehistoric passageway. Mother Nature's handiwork can be easily viewed in the form of stalactites, stalagmites, and flowstone. The tour culminates when you reach the world famous 100 feet underground waterfall.

Phone : (518)296-8558

Address : 671 Caverns Road, Howes Cave, NY, 12092

Hours : 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from June to July ; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in August; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. from September to November; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends in December. Season starts in April and runs through December.

Cost : $18 adults, $8 age 6-12, and free age 5 and younger.

Northeastern Cave Conservancy

The Northeastern Cave Conservancy, Inc. (NCC) is a not-for-profit corporation committed to the conservation, study, management, and acquisition of caves and karst areas having significant geological, hydrological, biological, recreational, historical, or aesthetic features.  The NCC programs are focused mainly on the preservation of caves and karst. Outreach includes education in schools and local communities, establishment of park spaces on karstlands, and educational messages about the significance of groundwater pollution on this sensitive underground ecosystem.

Visitors can visit and explore 10 caves in the Capital Region managed by the NCC. Contact the preserve manager for more information . Some caves require getting a permit.

Phone : Contact via email here .

Address : Visitors are asked to contact the maintenance and oversite group to schedule visits and get direction.

Hours : All caves that have had Northern Long Eared bats are closed from Oct. 1 to April 30.

Cost : Varies

Mohonk’s Lemon Squeeze

The hike across the Mohonk Mountain House grounds to the Labyrinth rock scramble and up through the Lemon Squeeze crevice is one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in the Hudson Valley.

Phone :  845-256-2197

Address : 1000 Mountain Rest Road, New Paltz, NY 12561

Hours : Sunrise to sunset

Cost : From Monday to Friday, fee is $22 adult and $16 age 12 and younger. For weekends/holidays, price is $27 adult and $21 age 12 and younger.

Visitors at Walkway over the Hudson. (Dominick Fiorille | NYup.com)

Here are other things to do in Upstate NY.

The best rail trails in Upstate NY: 18 pathways to bike, run or walk this summer

Got a great photo of the Erie Canalway? Here’s a chance for bragging rights

Faerie festivals in Upstate NY: Here are a dozen magical events this summer

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7 of the Best Road Trip Destinations for Gem Hunting

Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned treasure hunt? Road tripping by car or RV to some of the best gem hunting destinations in the United States is a travel bucket list item. The beauty and majesty of gemstones in person is something to marvel at even if you're not interested in actually searching for them. Plus, having treasure to take home with you is exciting.

One of the things to keep in mind about gem hunting at some of these locations and others is that many are in the middle of nowhere. You may need to bunker in an RV, stay at lodgings provided by the mine, or consider traveling a long distance for a day trip. Make sure to take the time to plan out what your gem-hunting road trip looks like, so you’re not surprised by where it takes you. 

Gem hunting may not spark your fancy, but road tripping or RVing to one of these destinations is an adventure in-of-itself. Many of these locations have so much to do in, and around the mine, you may not strike gold, but you may learn a thing or two and see some beautiful scenery along the way.

Here are seven of the best destinations in the United States for gem hunting, rock hounding, and adventure.

Emerald Hollow Mine, North Carolina

Located in Hiddenite, North Carolina, Emerald Hollow Mine couldn’t be situated in a more appropriately named place. Discover emeralds at the only public prospecting destination for emeralds in the United States. Using one of three sluiceways, you’ll pick your bucket that comes down the line directly from Hiddenite’s emerald mine. If you’re lucky, green gemstones aren’t the only treasure you’ll find. You might get your hands on amethysts, topaz gems, or even aquamarines.

Hiddenite Family Campground has partnered with Emerald Hollow Mine to encourage visitors to stay nearby. Surrounded by the Brushy Mountains, this emerald mine is often touted as one of the most unique geological locations in North America. Visitors will be able to hike and explore the surrounding areas between emerald hunting. Consider getting there later in the day as this is a prime spot for local school field trips.

Crater of Diamonds State Park, Arkansas

Located in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, Crater of Diamonds State Park is one of the only public spaces in the world that allows you to dig for diamonds. Rent tools for your search, or bring your own. With more than 40 rocks, minerals, and other interesting finds in this field of volcanic ground, you’re sure to find something or have fun doing it at Crater of the Diamonds State Park.

Crater of Diamonds State Park offers more than gem hunting for travelers. Consider camping there, taking part in a nature hike or a fishing trip, or learning more about the wildlife and birds in the park. If camping or RVing isn’t your type of trip, consider one of the local motels or riverside resorts. Murfreesboro is also full of history, including the Ka-Do-Ha Indian Village Museum.

Gem Mountain, Montana

Gem Mountain is located in Philipsburg, Montana, a remote area in western Montana. The time it takes to get there is worth the fun you'll have digging for sapphires. Everything you need to get started will be provided with admission. Gravel is typically priced by the bucket, and the staff at Gem Mountain will help you screen out what’s worth keeping and what’s worth throwing back into the dirt.

One of the biggest perks of traveling to Gem Mountain is its proximity to Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. so consider visiting one of them while you're in the area. In "Gold West Country," Gem Mountain isn't the only attraction—consider visiting the Philipsburg Chamber of Commerce while you're there to learn about local events, where to stay, and what to do in and around the town.

Herkimer Diamond Mines, New York

Located in Herkimer, New York, Herkimer Diamond Mines doesn’t have actual “diamonds,” but rather quartz crystals that resemble diamonds and are hidden within its caves and the ground below. These 500 million-year-old crystals can be found as easily as brushing against a wall or by getting dirty with a hammer and chisel. 

Herkimer Diamond Mines is just 30 minutes away from a Kampgrounds of America (KOA) campground for you to stay at during your journey. The KOA features three dining areas, unique lodging options, and events hosted throughout the season. You're close enough for a day trip to the Utica Zoo, the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, and cider mills galore.

Royal Peacock Opal Mine, Nevada

Located in Virgin Valley, Nevada, Royal Peacock Mine features some of the most gorgeous black fire opals you’ll find in North America. This is one of the more expensive gem hunting expeditions you’ll go on but it's well worth it, especially if you dig within the bank area. The bank area is where the highest concentration of fire opals hide and costs $190 per day per person to dig there, but if you want a bit cheaper experience without as much of a payoff, consider the dumps and tailings of the mine for $75.

Royal Peacock Mine offers lodging, history, and more in the Virgin Valley. With a fully-loaded RV park and additional lodging available, you can spend your time exploring the area. Come prepared because you are 100 miles from the closest full grocery store when visiting this Nevada institution. Make sure to book early because Royal Peacock Mine is only open from May 15 to October 15 every year.

Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine, North Carolina

Located in Franklin, North Carolina, the Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine walks you through the process of finding rough gemstones before screening them yourself. You get to participate in every step along the way to finding rubies, moonstones, garnets, sapphires, and more. If you truly want a hands-on gem hunting experiencing, this is it.

Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine is only open from May through October each year, weather permitting. This Cowee Valley staple is a must visit for gem hunters and enthusiasts. The rubies and sapphires at this mine are some of the most previous in North America and the world. Nestled within the Nantahala National Forest, you're surrounded by fishing, hiking, and bird watching all year.

Gold Prospecting Adventures, California

Located in Jamestown, California, Gold Prospecting Adventures lets you relive the California Gold Rush as prospectors did 150 years ago. Using sluice boxes rather than buckets, you can wade through the contents looking for flakes of gold, small nuggets, or perhaps something a bit bigger to take home. Guides help you learn more about gold prospecting, as well as help those getting started rock hunting for the first time with the best techniques for striking gold.

Jamestown and the surrounding area are full of things to do. Whether It's the Railtown 1897 State Historic Park or a day trip to Yosemite National Park, you won’t be bored on this trip, that’s for sure. Consider hiking the mountain trails out of town or learn the history of the California Gold Rush while visiting.

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Rockhounding Near Me: Best Locations State-by-State (Map)

By Author John

Posted on Published: August 23, 2021  - Last updated: April 16, 2024

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If you’re rockhounding in the United States, you’re in luck! We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the best rockhounding sites near you, complete with maps and guidelines. Almost every state in the U.S. offers at least one location to indulge in your passion for collecting specimens.

The best rockhounding locations in the United States include the Oregon Beaches, Lake Superior, Crater of Diamonds State Park, Emerald Hollow Mine, Jade Cove Trail, Gold Prospecting Adventure, Fossil Butte National Monument, Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine, Spectrum Sunstone Mine, or Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine.

While some locations require an access fee, others are free to explore. Whether you’re seeking precious gemstones, fossils, or unique minerals, there’s something for every rockhounder to discover nationwide.

To find detailed rockhounding guides for each state in the U.S ., click on the interactive map above. Each guide offers insights into the best rockhounding sites, what you can expect to find, and any relevant guidelines or regulations.

You can find a detailed rockhounding guide for your state by clicking on the map.

Best Places to Go Rockhounding Near Me

If you want to check out the best rockhounding tools I recommend and use, you can find them here  (Amazon link). Every state in the U.S. has certain minerals, rocks, gemstones, crystals, or fossils specific to that area. While some specimens can be found in multiple states, you can collect them legally only in some. In rare cases, the samples you seek can be found in only one state. 

Click on the map above and see what you can find in your state! Now, let’s discuss some of the best rockhounding locations in the United States individually!

Crater of Diamonds State Park

The Crater of Diamonds State Park in Murfreesboro, Arkansas, is among the only places in the world where you can dig for gemstones and get to keep what you can find.

There is a small fee at the entrance. Still, it’s among the best places in the U.S. to find natural diamonds, with a very high percentage of success!

Over 75,000 diamond specimens have been found by enthusiasts in this place. Apart from diamonds, you can also find very qualitative amethyst specimens. Check our map to see where you can find diamonds near you!

Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine

If you like opals, the Rainbow Ridge Opal Mine in Virgin Valley, Nevada, is among the best locations to find them! The entry fee is around $100. However, the opals you can find here are pretty valuable.

This location is more suited to experienced rockhounds, as you will need a bit of patience to find what you are looking for.

Of course, there are several other locations on our map where you can find opals more easily. Still, this place hosts some high-quality specimens that are worth it. This mine is open from May to mid-September.

Fossil Butte National Monument

If you are passionate about fossils, then the Fossil Butte National Monument in Kemmerer, Wyoming, is among the best places in the U.S. where you can find them.

Here, you can find animal and plant fossils, even ancient extinct ones! The best part is that the entrance is free! More than this, you can take your kids with you as the park often hosts special events for children, and pets are allowed, but only on leashes!

Before heading to this part of Wyoming, be sure to take with you the right equipment, including hiking shoes! 

Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine

If you like shiny gemstones, then the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine in Philipsburg, Montana, is among the best places in the U.S. for gem hunters!

All kinds of rocks and gemstones can be found in these places; however, the one that takes the crown is the beautiful sapphire specimens!

The best part is that children and seniors can enjoy their time here, as little labor is required until you find something shiny!

This mine is only open four days a week, so be sure to call ahead and ask about reservations. Take note that camping facilities are limited.

BTW: Do you want to know more about rock and mineral identification? The books listed below are the best ones you can find on the internet (Amazon links):

• Smithsonian Handbooks: Rocks & Minerals
• Gemstone & Crystal Properties (Quick Study Home)
• Ultimate Explorer Field Guide: Rocks and Minerals (National Geographic Kids)

Where to Find Cool Rocks Near Me?

If you are wondering what type of rocks you can find near your location, check out our map! Many cool rocks can be found throughout the United States; however, let us present some special sites!

The best rockhounding locations to find cool rocks are Hauser Geode Beds in California, beaches of Lake Superior in Michigan, Glass Buttes and Ochoco National Forest in Oregon, and the Town of Noble in Oklahoma. Here, you can find cool rocks such as geodes, yooperlites, obsidians, thunder eggs, or rose rocks.

Hauser Geode Beds

It’s no secret that geodes are among the most beautiful and sought-after rocks among collectors.

The Hauser Geode Beds in California are among the best locations in the United States to find geodes. The interiors of these geodes vary from pink, purple, blue, white, and just about any color.

Apart from geodes, you will find some beautiful agates, chalcedony, jasper, and various types of quartz at the Hauser Geode Beds. The geodes found here differ in size, and there are also plenty of other locations nearby where they can also be found.

Lake Superior

Lake Superior in Michigan is among the U.S.’s best rock-hounding locations for finding rocks. Superior agates of very high quality and over one billion years old can be found at this lake. They come in a variety of colors, such as yellow, black, white, red, or gray.

At Lake Superior, you can also find greenstones and sodalite-rich syenite rocks, known as yooperlites. Yooperlites are among the coolest rocks you can find!

These rocks are fluorescent under ultraviolet light. Pudding stones and beach glass are also common along Lake Superior.

Glass Buttes

If you are passionate about volcanic rocks, you will surely be interested in finding obsidian. There are many places in the United States where you can find this igneous rock; however, you can collect it legally at Glass Buttes !

Obsidian is an awesome rock in your collection; remember that not all obsidian is black! It can vary in multiple colors. 

Ochoco National Forest

Thundereggs are similar to geodes; however, they have their unique beauty. The best location to find thunder eggs is the Ochoco National Forest in Oregon. This specimen is also the official state rock of Oregon.

Look for thunder eggs in the Whisler Springs, White Fir Springs, and White Rock Springs in the Ochoco National Forest.

In this region, you can also find beautiful agates, jaspers, limb casts, petrified wood, or obsidian, among other things.

Town of Noble

Another cool rock you can add to your collection is the rose rock of Oklahoma. Very few places on our planet contain this specimen; however, Oklahoma is one of the most abundant places.

The town of Noble is the best place to find the rose rock. This town even has a unique festival and museum dedicated to rose rock.

Some other places near the Town of Noble where you can find rose rocks include Lake Stanley Draper and Lake Thunderbird. When water levels are low, you have a high chance of finding this rare rock.

TIP:   Cool rocks look even better when they are tumbled. Have you ever tried rock tumbling? Check out the ultimate guide about Rock Tumling in the article below: GUIDE: What is Rock Tumbler & How Do Rock Tumblers Work?

Where to Go Crystal Hunting Near Me?

Various types of crystals exist in the U.S. If you wish to see what crystals you can find near you, click on our map. Let us present some of the best locations in the United States where you can find high-quality crystals!

The best locations to go crystal hunting are Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine in North Carolina, Herkimer Diamond Mines in New York, Graves Mountain in Georgia, Douglas Lake in Tennessee, and the Hot Springs area in Arkansas. You can find crystals such as famous Herkimer diamonds or Douglas diamonds here.

Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine

In North Carolina, if you head towards the Cowee Valley, you will find the Cherokee Ruby and Sapphire Mine , one of the best mines in the U.S. to find crystals!

Here, you can collect various crystals, minerals, and rocks, such as star rubies, moonstone, star garnets, star sapphires, rhodolite garnets, rutile, corundum, kyanite, clear and smoky quartz, and many other specimens.

This location makes for a great family trip, and the entry fee is very low! The best part is that the mine administration doesn’t salt the soil – meaning that they don’t plant gems to attract visitors; instead, everything you find is a true discovery!

Herkimer Diamond Mines

Situated in New York, the Herkimer Diamond Mines is one of the best places to find crystals in the U.S.

Despite the name, this location doesn’t have any diamonds. However, it’s rich in a special type of quartz known as Herkimer diamonds. This type of quartz is similar in appearance to diamonds.

You can get what you find here, and the best part is, you don’t even have to go deep underground. You can find these specimens at ground level. Make sure you have the proper equipment, though, such as a chisel or hammer.

Graves Mountain

Situated near Lincolnton, Georgia, Graves Mountain is an excellent location to find crystals in the U.S. You don’t have to pay a fee here; however, you will have to make an appointment if you want to search for crystals unless you are a member of the Georgia Mineral Society.

In Graves Mountain, there are various minerals and crystals to collect, such as quartz, pyrite, hematite, muscovite, barite, or Ilmenite, among others. 

Douglas Lake

If you are situated in Tennessee or would like to go on a rockhounding adventure looking for crystals, then Douglass Lake is among the best places to find such specimens.

An exceptional variety of quartz crystals, known as Douglas diamonds, can be found here. They are pretty similar to Herkimer diamonds.

The best time to rockhound in this area is when the water levels are low. Find the red clay in the lake bed and analyze the soil closely. You don’t have to pay any fees to collect crystals here.

Hot Springs

The Hot Springs area in Arkansas is among the best places in the U.S. for finding crystals, rocks, and minerals! Here, you can find quartz crystals, rock crystals, geodes, fluorite, and pyrite, among many other things.

Many areas near Hot Springs are also worth a visit, yet some of them require an entry fee.

TIP:  Do you know how to properly display the rocks and crystals you found? It is always good to know the basics to prevent breaking or losing your hardly found rocks. Therefore, check out the ultimate guide to rock collecting in the article below: How to Start Rock Collecting? Complete Guide for Beginners

Where to Find Minerals Near Me?

Check our map to find minerals near your location in the United States. Minerals are a great addition to any collection, and if you are interested in some of the best locations to find minerals in the United States, then let us present you with some!

The best rockhounding locations to find minerals are Alabama Gold Camp in Alabama, Morefield Mine in Virginia, and Jade Cove Trail in California. You Can Find here beautiful minerals such as gold, red garnets, citrine, amazonite, jade, and many other amazing minerals.

Alabama Gold Camp

If you like panning for gold to your heart’s desire, then the Alabama Gold Camp is for you! It is located 85 miles east of Birmingham.

Here you will have tons of space to look for gold, and the best part is, you can also find citrine, red garnets, and artifacts, such as arrowheads. 

Though it may be one of the best locations in the U.S. to search for gold and other minerals and crystals, you have to make a reservation and pay a rental fee of $75. However, what you will find here is more than worth it, and the experience is one of a kind!

Morefield Mine

The Morefield Mine in Virginia, near Richmond, is possibly the best place in the U.S. to find minerals and gemstones.

There are over 80 types of gems and minerals you can find in this region, including the rare, yet beautiful amazonite gemstone. It is named after the Amazon River, and it has a particularly rich greenish appearance.

At the Morefield Mine, you can carry only one bucket of specimens; however, pickaxes and hammers aren’t allowed. Also, you have to make an appointment and pay a small entrance fee.

Jade Cove Trail

The Jade Cove Trail , Big Sur, California, is among the best places to find Jade in the U.S. There are some regulations in this area that you have to follow.

Still, generally, you can keep what you find. Other types of minerals and gemstones can be found in this region.

TIP:  If you are not an experienced rockhound but want to find beautiful minerals check out the ultimate guide about rockhounding in the article below and find out all you need to know about this amazing hobby: How to Start Rockhounding: The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide

Where Can You Go to Dig for Gems Near Me?

The United States is filled with various rare or even unique gemstones. See where you can find the closest gem digging areas near you by clicking our map! With that being said, let us present to you some of the best gem digging areas in the United States, both free and paid!

The best free gems digging locations are The Stillwell Ranch in Texas, Lake Catherine, Pike County, Benton County in Arkansas, and the Ruby Mountains in Nevada. The best paid digging locations are The Emerald Hollow Mine in North Carolina, Spectrum Sunstone Mine in Oregon, and Gem Mountain in North Carolina.

Free Gem Hunting Near Me

The Stillwell Ranch in the Big Bend area in Texas is a very good place where you can find amethyst for free. Amethyst Hill is also an excellent place to search for this beautiful gemstone, as well as the Althaus Ranch.

If you are passionate about opals, then head to Arkansas , and go to either Lake Catherine, Pike County, or Benton County.

You can find various opals in these areas, coming in colors such as green, yellow, red, and others. Head to the North Wilson pit to search for fire opals.

The Ruby Mountains in Nevada is another excellent location where you can find gemstones for free.

Despite the name, you won’t find rubies here but rather beautiful garnets of good quality. Be sure to have the right equipment before heading there!

Paid Gem Hunting Near Me

The Emerald Hollow Mine in North Carolina is one of the best-paid gem hunting locations in the United States.

Apart from being the only emerald mine open to the public in the U.S., the small fee is more than generous for the high-quality emeralds you will find here. Over 60 different gemstones, crystals, and minerals can be found here as well.

Spectrum Sunstone Mine is another excellent paid-to-dig site for gemstones located in Oregon. Here you can find unique sunstones and even Himalayan tourmaline gemstones.

Moving on from sunstones and tourmaline to moonstones and rubies, at the Gem Mountain , Spruce Pine, in North Carolina, you can have experts verify your findings, confirm their value, and even turn them into jewelry if requested. All of this, for a small fee, of course.

There are countless locations where you can find gemstones, crystals, rocks, fossils, or minerals in the United States. Some places require you to pay a fee to dig; others are free, but despite this, it is truly a wonder that we are allowed to collect these specimens at all.

By clicking on the state name in the table below find links to the ultimate rockhounding guides for each state in the United States:

Enjoy your rockhounding experience even better by consulting on our map to find exactly what you are searching for!

TIP:   You know all the best rockhounding locations in the USA after reading this article. So it’s time to take your family or friends and try to find beautiful rocks and minerals by yourself! If you need to know what equipment for rockhounding you need, check out the complete list in the article below: The Complete Guide: All Tools You Need for Rockhounding

Ron Coleman Mining

Welcome to ron coleman mining: your destination for family fun and crystal excitement near hot springs, arkansas , unearth the magic of crystals through crystal mining adventures, discover your own treasures.

At Ron Coleman Mining, we invite you to embark on a thrilling adventure beneath the surface as you delve into the world of crystal mining.  Located amidst the natural beauty near Hot Springs, Arkansas, our mining facility offers an unforgettable experience for families seeking excitement and exploration.  Whether you're a seasoned prospector or a first-time adventurer, our crystal-rich digging area promise to unveil treasures awaiting to be discovered.

An Experience For All Ages

Our crystal mining activity is perfect for families looking for a unique and educational experiences.  From kids to adults, everyone can join in the fun of digging for their own unique crystals.  Our knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, sharing insights into the fascinating world of geology and crystal formation along the way.

Crystals Near Me

Located near the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Ron Coleman Mining provides easy access to our crystal-rich public digging area.  Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, our mining facility offers a convenient destination to satisfy your crystal hunting cravings. 

Soar To New Heights With Ziplining Adventures

A one-of-a-kind experience.

Feel the rush of excitement as you soar above an open crystal mine, experience the thrill of our one-of-a-kind zipline adventure.  Ron Coleman Mining offers the only zipline of its kind in the world, where you can zip through the air while gazing down upon the mesmerizing beauty of crystal formations below.

An Unforgettable Journey

Prepare to be amazed as you glide effortlessly through the air, taking in panoramic views of the sparkling crystals nestled within the mine.  Our zip-line offers a unique perspective on the natural wonders of Arkansas, providing an unforgetttable experience for adventurers of all ages.

Ziplining Near Me

Located near the heart of Hot Springs, Arkansas, Ron Coleman Mining offers easy access to this exclusive ziplining adventure.  Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, our facility provides a convenient destination for thrill seekers looking to experience the magic of ziplining over a crystal mine.

Family-Friendly Activities For Unforgettable Memories

Create lasting memories.

At Ron Coleman Mining, we understand the importance of family time.  That's why we offer a wide range of family - friendly activities designed to bring joy and laughter to visitors of all ages.  From camping under the stars to embarking on crystal mining expeditions, there's no shortage o fun to be had at our facility.

Explore The Hot Springs, Arkansas Area

Looking for things to do in Hot Springs, Arkansas?  Ron Coleman Mining is your gateway to adventure in this charming city.  Take a dip in the rejuvenating waters of Hot Springs National Park, explore local attractions, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the area.  With so much to see and do, the Hot Springs area offers endless opportunities for family fun and exploration.

Plan Your Visit To Ron Coleman Mining Today!

Experience the magic.

Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey of discovery and adventure? Plan your visit to Ron Coleman Mining today!  Whether you're seeking the thrill of crystal mining, the excitement of ziplining, camping in our campground or simply a relaxing getaway with the family, our facility offers something for everyone.  Join us near Hot Springs, Arkansas, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 

Things To Do  At Ron Coleman Mine

Crystal Digging

Spend all day digging through our fresh tailing piles. Keep everything you find! Current crystal digging hours 8 am to 4:30 pm

Daily tours giving the history of Ron Coleman mine, viewing our world-class gem and mineral gallery, going down into the mining pit, seeing behind the scenes in our employee's only areas!

Zip-line over 100 feet off the ground across our quartz crystal mine. Get a bird's eye view of what's going on in the pit from the only zip-line in the world to go over an active quartz crystal mine!

RV Park Camping

Crystal Ridge RV park has 24 spaces, a tiny cabin, laundromat, shower/restroom building, and is walking distance to the crystal mining area!

     Ron Coleman Mining has been the premiere destination for hands-on quartz crystal digging, mineral decor and gifts for 30 years. Families and visitors come from all over the country to visit our mine located at 211 Crystal Ridge Ln, Jessieville, Arkansas.

There are few activities more fun than digging your own quartz crystals. At Ron Coleman Mining , we have a side-by-side zip-line that soars over the crystal mine at nearly 1/4 a mile long; extensive premises boasting a huge mine, campground and a large digging area for the intrepid visitor. Our mine is so fruitful that we are certain you will find your digging fees worth of beautiful quality quartz crystals. It is one reason we are considered one of the best crystal mines in Arkansas.  We are located 10 minutes from Hot Springs Village and 15 minutes from Hot Springs National Park.   Visit us when you want to go crystal mining in Arkansas .

@RonColemanMining

6 Places You Can Collect Your Own Crystals

Crystals are so ubiquitous here in Los Angeles that I'm beginning to feel like a gem hoarder—everywhere I go, it seems like someone hands me a small  rose quartz or a similar stone infused with energy healing properties. When a piece I fancy doesn't find me in this way, I generally seek it out online via one-click ordering.

This doorstep delivery is awesome for busy enthusiasts, but it's definitely not as much fun as the OG method of crystal sourcing, AKA digging for buried treasure. Luckily, recreational gem mining is a thing, and though it's generally more of a diversion than it is a get-rich-quick scheme, a man in North Carolina  did  discover a 310-carat emerald as recently as 2009, while another lucky human found an 8.52-carat diamond while digging at a tourist-friendly site in Arkansas in 2015.

Chances of striking pay dirt on a dig are about as good as winning the lottery. Buy hey, even if all you manage to unearth are some new, high-vibe specimens for your mantle place, I'd still call that a jackpot.

Below, find 6 places you can indulge your crystal addiction, feel like an old-school explorer, and, maybe, make bank.

1. Emerald Hollow Mine , North Carolina

Emerald Hollow Mine is located in Hiddenite, North Carolina, which happens to be where the aforementioned lucky explorer found his 310-carat gem. His discovery was made on private property, but Emerald Hollow Mine offers the public a chance at striking similar luck with not only emeralds but also the hiddenite for which the area is known, as well as amethysts, sapphires, topaz, garnet, and more.

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Here, you have three options for your search: sluicing, creeking, and digging.  In the first scenario, you can sift through what's known as "salted" buckets of dirt, meaning you'll be assured to find crystals within them. Creeking is a slightly more adventurous angle without the guarantee of success—water brings minerals down from the mine and lands them in the shallow creek bed for relatively easy searching. The final option involves a hike to the mine and some real digging. Prices start at $10.

Once you've accumulated your treasure, there is a lapidary on property who can turn your from-the-Earth finds into supercharged jewelry.

2. Craters of Diamonds State Park , Arkansas

This is North America's only public diamond mine, built atop the world's eighth-largest diamond-bearing crater. It was here the 8.5-carat diamond was discovered, but the gem was only one of hundreds of notable jewels—white, brown, and yellow diamonds—found on the property over time. The largest, discovered in 1924, boasted 40-plus carats.

You can seek out your treasure in one of three ways here. The first, surface searching, is exactly what it sounds like—you'll walk up and down the plowed rows of a 37.5-acre field seeking out gems by sight. (This method works best after a rain.) The second involves actual digging, about six inches to a foot down into the soil, and sifting. The third, for experienced miners, involves digging deep holes and strategically sorting through the dirt. Diamond discoveries aren't guaranteed via any of the three methods, though you can see a listing of recent finds here . Entry fee is $10 per person.

3. Jade Cove , California

Unlike the first two locales on this list, Jade Cove—located in the Big Sur area of California—is not commercialized. On the contrary, there are actually a few barriers to entry here: The way down is steep and potentially dangerous; at times the signs pointing the way go missing (locals who want to deter amateur hunters are generally suspected); and there are some regulations which restrict gem recovery . Still, none of the above have stopped local jade purveyors and tourists alike from seeking out this rare gem.

Though some adventurers shore dive here to find jade, it's more commonly searched for by sight in the sand. This is best accomplished at the tideline, though treasure hunters are advised not to turn their back to the ocean as currents are strong. Jade can't always be identified by its color—here, it comes in shades of green, blue, red, black, and brown—but this crystal can be easily verified by its immunity to scratching.

4. Graves Mountain , Georgia

Graves Mountain was first mined in the 1920s by Tiffany & Co, which used the rutile it unearthed to polish diamonds. Now, this mineral-rich mountain is available for digs by appointment only for Georgia Mineral Society members; however, in April and October, Graves' caretaker is opening the grounds to the public for three-day "rock swap & digs." (Could you just die? There will be barbecue, too, and the whole shebang is organized by a man adorably named Junior.) Up-for-grabs gems include iridescent hematite, pyrite, blue quartz, quartz, and other crystals. Entry fee for the public event is by donation.

5. Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine , North Carolina

According to the Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, a rare type of gem known as the pigeon-blood ruby can be found here. They're more valuable than your average stone— an extraordinarily large one sold at auction in 2015 for $33M —however, some believe this distinction should only belong to certain rubies of Burmese origin.

Regardless, many other crystals—good ol' regular rubies included—can be found here including sapphires, moonstone, quartz, smokey quartz, and more. "Digging" is done through buckets of soil (as opposed to a search into the actual earth). Unlike some crystal mines, however, Cherokee doesn't "salt" these treasure troves, meaning they don't throw in outside gems to sweeten the deal for consumers. The mine is closed from November to May. Fee is $25 per person.

6. Wegner Quartz Crystal Mine , Arkansas

This property is known for—you guessed it—quartz crystals. And while you won't see anything quite  this extraordinary in size , clusters are sometimes unearthed here that weigh several tons, and gems are by all account abundant.

There are five options for unearthing stones at Wegner. The first involves searching a 40-acre surface mine by sight and hand tool. The second includes hitting up the sluicing trough, where you can sort through a pail of dirt for crystals including rubies, tourmalines, opals, amethysts, and others. The third option involves searching through a patch of dirt which has been brought down from the mine, and which is salted occasionally to replenish its crystal content. The fourth includes a dig at what's called the Phantom Mine, where you can find rare crystals-trapped-inside-of-another-crystal called Phantoms. Finally, the last option involves diamond hunting through a bag of dirt guaranteed to contain at least 1/2-carat's worth of diamonds. Fees start at $10.50 per person.

Once you've unearthed new treasures, here's how to cleanse them , where to put them in your home , and  how (plus, why) to pair them with your plants . 

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Gem tour of america gems – mines – museums.

Explore the Gemological Treasures of the U.S.A.

The United States is home to a wealth of natural resources, including many gemstones and precious metals. We’ve highlighted locations where you can find and learn more about some of these American treasures.

Tourmalines make up a group of closely related mineral species that share the same crystal structure but have dierent chemical and physical properties. They share the elements silicon, aluminum, and boron, but contain a complex mixture of other elements such as sodium, lithium, calcium, magnesium, manganese, iron, chromium, vanadium, fluorine and sometimes copper. Very few gems match tourmaline’s dazzling range of colors.

LORE – Ancient Egyptians thought that tourmaline gathered all the colors while traveling along the rainbow. Its name means “a gem of the rainbow”.

Blue sapphire belongs to the mineral species corundum, and ranges in color from pure blue, to greenish blue to violetish blue. The interaction between impurities of iron and titanium cause its color. The name “sapphire” applies to any corundum that’s not red and doesn’t qualify as ruby, another corundum variety. The most preferred and valuable sapphires are deep color saturations known in the trade as “Royal Blue” and the soft velvety blue called “Cornflower Blue.”

LORE – Sapphire has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility. It was also reputed to cure plague boils, diseases of the eye and be an antidote to poison.

Coveted by Spanish conquistadors, Inca kings, Mughals and pharaohs, emerald is the bluish green to green variety of beryl. Trace elements that cause emerald’s color include chromium and vanadium. As a general rule, the higher the chromium, or vanadium content, the more intense the green. The most desirable emerald colors are bluish green to pure green with strong to vivid color saturation and medium to medium-dark tone.

LORE – Emeralds brought to Europe from Colombia by Spanish Conquistadors helped popularize the gem.

Diamond is the only gem made of a single element – typically about 99.95 percent carbon. The other 0.05 percent can include one or more trace elements, which can influence its color or crystal shape. Diamond forms under high temperature and pressure that exists only within a specific depth range (about 100 miles or 160 kilometers) beneath the earth’s surface.

LORE – Known as one of the universal symbols of love, diamond is cherished around the world.

Turquoise is found in only a few places on Earth, typically in dry and barren regions. It is formed where acidic, copper-rich groundwater seeps downward through deeply altered or broken rocks where it reacts with minerals that contain phosphorus and aluminum. The result of this process is a porous, semi-translucent to opaque hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum.

LORE – The Apache thought turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end. The Pueblo believed that turquoise got its color from the sky, while the Hopi thought the gem was produced by lizards scurrying over the earth.

Sunstone, a member of the feldspar group, can be an orthoclase feldspar or a plagioclase feldspar, depending on chemistr y. Both can show aventurescence – a sparkly, metallic-looking luster caused by flat, reflective inclusions. Although most sunstones have yellow, orange or brown bodycolor, not all sunstones are aventurescent.

LORE – According to Native American legend, a great warrior was wounded by an arrow and bled on a stone. The blood permeated the stone with his spirit, causing sunstone’s color and giving it sacred power.

Called “the king of precious stones,” ruby is the red variety of the mineral corundum. Its color is caused by traces of chromium. The most sought-after color by collectors is a deep red with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood” by those in the gem and jewelry industry. Myanmar (formerly Burma) is home to the most famous ruby mines. Other major sources include Vietnam, Madagascar, Mozambique, Kenya, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

LORE – Early cultures valued rubies for their similarity to the redness of blood, and believed it held the power of life. Many medieval Europeans wore rubies to guarantee health, wealth, wisdom and success in life.

Coveted for thousands of years as symbols of wealth and status, pearl s are formed when a microscopic irritant enters the bodies of certain species of mollusks. There are two t ypes of pearls: natural (formed without human inter vention); and cultured (the product of human intervention). Natural pearls are exceptionally rare. There are four types of cultured pearls: akoya, Tahitian, South Sea and freshwater.

LORE – Ancients from the Middle East believed that pearls were teardrops fallen from heaven. Christopher Columbus and his contemporaries thought that mollusks formed pearls from dew drops.

The Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, Illinois Magnificent gemstones, minerals and jewelry from around the world will delight you at the Field Museum. The exhibits in the Grainger Hall of Gems show the transformation of gemstone rough into jewelry. fieldmuseum.org T +1 312 922 9410

Smithsonian Natural Museum of History, Washington, D.C. Waiting for you is the Hope Diamond and the 10,363 carat Dom Pedro aquamarine. After viewing those wonders, you can wander around over 20,000 square feet of the Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals permanent exhibit. naturalhistory.si.edu T +1 202 633 1000 E [email protected]

Gemological Institute of America® (GIA), Carlsbad, California GIA® in Carlsbad is one of the world’s great gemological research facilities and grading centers – and it’s also a stunning gem and jewelry museum. Exhibits include Riches in the Rocks , trilliant-cut gems and Symphony in Gemstones . Check the website for special exhibits including Centuries of Opulence: Jewels of India through October 2018. Call 24 hours in advance to schedule a tour. GIA.edu T +1 800 421 7250, ext. 4116 E [email protected]

Mineral & Gemological Collection at Harvard University Cambridge, Massachusetts Harvard’s museum is home to more than 3,000 specimens. The collection has 1,200 gems from New England allowing you to take a gemological tour of the region within their galleries. mgmh.fas.harvard.edu T +1 617 495 3045 E [email protected]

Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Dallas, Texas A museum you and your children will be sure to love. In the Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall, you’ll find The Eye of Africa, (a spectacularly vivid fluorite crystal from Nambia) and a five-foot-tall amethyst geode. The entire family can participate in a scavenger hunt. perotmuseum.org T +1 214 428 5555 E [email protected]

The Amber Room by Steve Barry – A room with amber walls disappears when the Allies start bombing Nazi Germany. This historical event serves as the setting for a riveting detective novel. Will Rachel Cutler rediscover one of the world’s great lost treasures? Adult Mystery/Historical (Fiction)

The Donovans series by Elizabeth Lowell – New York Times best-selling author Elizabeth Lowell has penned four novels that will delight gem and jewelry lovers. Chronicling the adventures of the gem-trading Donovan family, Lowell’s books take readers into the rarified world of precious stones, international intrigue and passionate romance. The first book in the series is Amber Beach. Adult Romance/Historical (Fiction)

Priceless by Marne Davis Kellogg – Kick Keswick runs a prestigious auction house and is a master jewel thief. She changes her ways after a marriage to a Scotland Yard detective, only to discover that a new thief has stolen her signature techniques. Adult Suspense/Mystery (Fiction)

Straight by Dick Francis – What happens when a jockey inherits his brother’s jewelry business…and enemies? Award-winning novelist Dick Francis spins a page-turning tale that you won’t be able to put down. Adult Mystery/Thriller (Fiction)

Star Sapphire and Land of Gems series by Anthony Pardoe – Star Sapphire (a courageous 10-year-old girl) and Jasper Pebble (a talking gem) make their way through a fantastical universe of gems bubbling with personalities – and agendas. The award-winning novels entertain, educate and evoke comparisons to Alice in Wonderland. Children 8-12 years (Fiction)

Smithsonian Handbooks: Gemstones by Cally Hall – An encyclopedia, Gemstones is packed with essential information and stunning photography on 130+ varieties. Comprehensive descriptions of a gem’s distinguishing characteristics and quick reference guides make this a handy resource. All Ages – Beginners to serious enthusiasts (Non-Fiction)

Oceanview Mine San Diego County, California Screen for tourmaline, kunzite, morganite and other gems and minerals by sifting through material from the mine’s commercial operation. Jeep tours of active mining areas are also available. You can even take home a five-gallon bucket of rocks to screen at home. Reservations required. oceanviewmine.com T +1 760 415 9143 E [email protected]

Royal Peacock Opal Mine Denio, Nevada Nevada is known as a significant source of black opals, and the Royal Peacock mine is a large producer of the gem. Guests can sift through unearthed materials (tailings) or dig into the undisturbed hillside. Tool rental is available. Open seasonally. royalpeacock.com T +1 773 941 0374 E [email protected]

Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine Philipsburg, Montana In operation since 1892, the Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine is one of the oldest and most significant sapphire mines in the U.S. Guests receive all the tools needed to search through a bucket of sapphire gravel concentrate. Open seasonally. Reservations recommended. gemmountainmt.com T +1 866 459 4367 E [email protected]

Crater of Diamonds State Park Murfreesboro, Arkansas Hunt for diamonds over the eroded surface of a diamond-bearing volcanic crater. There are three ways to search: surface searching (walking and looking); shallow digging; and digging deep holes and hand-sorting the gravel. Bring your own tools or rent them on-site. You might get lucky: 7.44 carat and 2.78 carat diamonds were unearthed in 2017. You might also find amethyst, garnet,jasper, agate and quartz. craterofdiamondsstatepark.com T +1 888 287 2757 E [email protected]

Emerald Hollow Mine Hiddenite, North Carolina The Emerald Hollow Mine states it’s the world’s only emerald mine open for public prospecting. Gems found at the site include emerald, aquamarine, sapphire, garnet, topaz, amethyst, citrine, rutile and tourmaline. Prices depend on the type of digging you want to do. emeraldhollowmine.com T +1 828 635 1126 E [email protected]

This information is provided for educational purposes only. Please do your own research and contact businesses before visiting. Gemstone images are for illustrative purposes and may not originate in the state where they are shown. GIA makes no claims as to the completeness, accuracy, validity or content of any data presented here and makes no endorsements, recommendations, representations or warranties, express or implied, including without limitation the warranties of merchantability, non-infringement or fitness for a particular purpose.

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The 21 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Tennessee In 2024

By Dr. Keith Jackson - Geology PhD

| Updated January 12, 2024

Updated January 12, 2024

Tennessee is known for its rich mining history and abundance of gemstones, making it one of the top destinations for gem mining. Whether you’re an expert gem hunter looking for a spot to mine for gems or a family who wants to introduce their kids to gem hunting, there are plenty of opportunities to discover!

Gemstones can be found from the Great Smoky Mountains to the lush forests and streams of the Cumberland Plateau. With so many of these great locations available, we know it can be hard for you to decide where to dig for gems. So, here are some of our recommended spots to do gem mining in the country’s Volunteer State.

The ideal locations to find gems in Tennessee are creeks, rivers, stream beds, mountains, and hillsides. Our favorite spots include the Cumberland Mountain State Park, Elmwood Mine, Douglas Lake, Cooper’s Gem Mine, and Pigeon Forge Gem Mine, which we have covered in great detail below.

• The extensive local experience and understanding of our team
• Input from several gem hunting groups and organizations
• The accessibility of the mining locations
• Safety and potential hazards when collecting
• Private and public locations
• A desire to include locations for both experienced gem hunters and those who are just starting out

What We Cover In This Article

The Gemstones Found In Tennessee You Can Mine

In Tennessee, there is an extremely wide variety of gems. Since every state is different and not everyone knows where to get this information, we’ve made many guides to help you locate gem mines near you . You can find rare and more common gems in this area with the appropriate information and good fortune.

Rare gemstones found in Tennessee

• Freshwater pearls

More common gemstones found here

Our favorite places for gem mining in tennessee.

We’ve created a list of our favorite locations so that adults and children can use it to experience the thrill of gem mining. These places will allow adults to participate in real gem mining and help kids get off to the most incredible start on their gem hunting quests.

Always Confirm Access and Collection Rules!

Before heading out to any of the locations on our list you need to confirm access requirements and collection rules for both public and private locations.

These requirements are subject to change without notice and may differ from what we state below.

Always get updated information directly from the source ahead of time to ensure responsible rockhounding.

Cumberland Mountain State Park

24 Office Dr, Crossville, TN 38555, United States

Cumberland Mountain State Park is located in Crossville, on the Cumberland Plateau. The park covers 1,720 acres and is surrounded by the Cumberland Forest. There are a ton of outdoor activities, such as gem mining, where you can search for precious stones and minerals in the park’s mining sluices. It’s popular among families and is a fun way to learn about geology and the local environment.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Cumberland Mountain State Park

The best time to visit cumberland mountain state park.

The best time to visit Cumberland Mountain State Park for searching gemstones is in the summer months of May to August. The park offers gem mining activities during this time of year, and the weather is usually warm and sunny.

The tools every gem hunter will need

When you're out looking for gems it's very important that you bring the right tools with you. You don't need a lot for most trips but there are a handful that are critical and will make your life a lot easier.

We get asked a lot about the equipment we use. Over the years we've found a handful of tools that we recommend to both new and experienced gem miners which we outline in great detail in our complete rockhounding tools guide . These are quality options that also happen to be relatively inexpensive.

Below are the basic tools that make your life so much easier and save you a ton of time. Check out the full guide to see everything we recommend bringing. One quick note, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases but we try very hard to only recommend gear we would use ourselves and often recommend brands you can't find on Amazon.

At a minimum you should have:

1 - Sturdy rock hammer : The Estwing Rock Pick is our standard

2 - Rugged chisels : Try Kendo' 3-piece Chisel Set

3 - Compact shovel : The Koleiya 28-inch shovel works well

4 - Rock screen pan : The Wazakura Soil Sieve Set fits the bill

5 - Eye protection : DeWalt Safety Glasses  are cheap and comfortable

6 - Head protection : Malta's Safety Helmet  has been our go-to

7 - Jewelers lens with at least 20x magnification : Jarlink's Jewelers Loop  is perfect

The gem-finding books that we use most

There are also a few books that have been extremely helpful in the search for gems. These books have great recommendations and tips:

National Audubon Society Field Guide to Rocks and Minerals: North America  

Southeast Treasure Hunter's Gem & Mineral Guide  

Earth Treasures: The Southeastern Quadrant  

We provide links to find these tools on Amazon but some can also be found at your local hardware stores. For more recommendations check out the link to our full tool guide above.

Elmwood Mine

Carthage, Smith County, TN, United States

Elmwood Mine is an underground zinc mine located in Carthage. It was initially opened in 1969 and was later shut down for a considerable period until it reopened in 2010. You can explore the underground workings of the mine and learn about its history by taking a guided tour or by visiting one of the many interpretive exhibits located around the property. You can also find amazing Tennessee crystals here.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Elmwood Mine

Over the years, the mine has generated numerous gemstones, some of which were:

The Best Times To Visit Elmwood Mine

The spring months are the perfect times to explore the mine. Fewer gem miners go during this time of year, so you won’t have to worry about large crowds or long lines.

Douglas Lake

Douglas Lake, TN, United States

Douglas Lake is a great location that allows you to comb through the sandy banks of the lake in search of gems and minerals. You can purchase additional tools, such as sieves and magnifying glasses, to help them find their hidden treasures. This fun experience is excellent for all ages, so come prepared with sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of water.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Douglas Lake

Gem hunters can find various gemstones here, including:

The Best Time To Visit Douglas Lake

The best time to visit Douglas Lake to search for gems is in the summer, providing extended daylight so you can spend more time hunting for gems.

Cooper’s Gem Mine – Great for kids

1138 Big Hollow Rd, Blountville, TN 37617, United States

Cooper’s Gem Mine is located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. You can experience the thrill of prospecting for gemstones and minerals and purchase jewelry made from the gems they find. The mine also offers educational programs to teach people about geology and how to pan for gems.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Cooper’s Gem Mine

Cooper’s Gem Mine has a variety of gems, crystals, and other minerals available you can dig for, including:

• Chrysocolla

The Best Time To Visit Cooper’s Gem Mine

Cooper’s Gem Mine is open year-round, and the weather is usually mild throughout the year. The mine is open for gem hunters from 9 am to 5 pm each day, and it’s best to plan your visit for a more enjoyable experience.

Pigeon Forge Gem Mine – Great for kids

2865 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States

Pigeon Forge Gem Mine is a family-owned gemstone mining attraction in Pigeon Forge. It’s been operating since 1998 and offers a unique experience for all ages. You can purchase buckets of ore that contain semi-precious stones, then use sluice boxes to search for their gems.

The staff at Pigeon Forge Gem Mine are knowledgeable about geology and can answer questions about the different stones that gem hunters find.

The Types Of Gemstones Found At Pigeon Forge Gem Mine

Although there are many various types of gems in this area, it is mainly recognized for having a lot of the following:

• Smoky Quartz

The Best Time To Visit Pigeon Forge Gem Mine

The mine is open year-round, but hours may be limited in the winter months due to weather conditions. Planning before spending the day with family or friends would be best.

Other Great Options For Real Gem Mining in Tennessee

There are many gemstones in Tennessee, not just in the locations we’ve already highlighted. Along with our top picks from the list above, here are a few more fantastic locations you should check out if you want to go gem hunting in this state.

• Ben Lomond Mountain – Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Marcasite, Pyrite
• Boatland – Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Marcasite, Pyrite
• Buffalo Cove – Calcite, Celestite, Dolomite, Pyrite, Sphalerite
• Bumpus Cove Mining District – Anglesite, Cerussite, Hematite, Sphalerite
• Burra Burra Mine District – Actinolite, Garnet, Pyrrhotite, Quartz
• Horse Mountain – Agate
• Little Tennessee River – Clear Quartz
• Mossy Creek – Smithsonite, Sphalerite
• Straight Creek Mines – Sphalerite
• Tennessee River – Freshwater Pearls
• Unaka Mountains – Epidote, Quartz, Unakite

The Top Public Gem Mining Locations in Tennessee

Here are some more excellent suggestions for parents who want to introduce their kids to gem mining.

• Jae’s Gem Mine – 2416 Music Valley Dr. Suite 102, Nashville, TN 37214, United States
• Little River Gem Mine – 2189 Winfield Dunn Pkwy, Sevierville, TN 37876, United States
• Lucky ‘7’ Mine – Craftsman, S Valley, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863, United States
• Magic Gem Mine – 2135 Wears Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862, United States
• Old Smoky Gem Mine – 968 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738, United States

Tennessee Gem Mining Laws And Regulations

Tennessee has a few regulations that apply to recreational gem hunting. These regulations are designed to protect the environment and ensure public safety. Prospectors must obtain a permit from the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation before engaging in any gemstone prospecting or collecting.

Gem hunters may only collect gems on state-owned lands with permission from the appropriate land manager. They must adhere to all applicable state laws and regulations, including land use and access, water quality, wildlife protection, and air quality. Prospectors must not disturb any archaeological sites or artifacts while gem hunting.

All collected gems must be kept in their natural form; they may not be altered or processed before being removed from the site. All collected gems must be labeled with the collector’s name and date of collection; this information should also be recorded in an inventory log.

For more information on Tennessee’s gem mining laws and regulations, visit the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation website link above.

Additional places to mine for gems in nearby states

You can browse the list of guides we’ve created below to locate more gems in the neighboring states when you’re done visiting each of the sites we mentioned above:

• Gem mining in Alabama
• Gem mining in Arkansas
• Gem mining in Georgia
• Gem mining in Kentucky
• Gem mining in Mississippi
• Gem mining in Missouri
• Gem mining in North Carolina
• Gem mining in Virginia

If you have any recommendations we haven’t covered, please leave them in the comments below!

The 24 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Virginia In 2024

The 18 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Michigan In 2024

About Dr. Keith Jackson - Geology PhD

Keith Jackson is an avid rockhound who is constantly exploring new sites to expand his collection. He has worked as a professional Geologist for over 20 years and holds a PhD in Geology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, a Masters Degree in Geology from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and a Bachelors Degree in Geology from the University of Connecticut.

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Crystal Hunters’ Paradise in Arkansas: Discover the Best Dig Sites!

by Jeremy Hall April 18, 2022, 11:33 pm updated December 25, 2023, 10:19 pm

Where Are The Best Places To Dig Crystals in Arkansas?

Arkansas can seem lousy with quartz crystals, it’s one of the best places in the world to find them after all! There are innumerable sites spread throughout the state, many of them ready to let you dig and see what you can bring home. It’s just a matter of finding the correct location.

So, want to see where to start looking to find places to dig crystals in Arkansas? Let’s take a look at some of the best!

The following places are all open at the time of this writing, but I encourage you to take a look in the surrounding areas if the spot you’re looking at isn’t open to the public at the moment. Arkansas has an incredible amount of quartz crystals and this is just a small sample of the available sites in the state.

• Quartz: Ultimate Guide To Collecting Quartz

1. Crystal Vista

If you’re a rockhound who lives in or near Arkansas, and you’re always on the lookout for places to go to dig crystals, then chances are you’ve heard of the Crystal Vista crystal dig site.

There’s plenty of quartz crystals to be found here and it’s completely free. You just have to be willing to make the 20 minute uphill trek to the collection area. The good news is, your walk back down to your vehicle will all be downhill!

The Crystal Vista dig site is a 4 acre area that was once a commercial crystal mining operation. After the mine was closed, a local miner and the Forest Service worked together to turn the 4 acre property into a recreational site for rockhounds.

Surface collecting at Crystal Vista can be very productive, especially if your expectations aren’t to find large clusters. What you’re likely to find while surface collecting at this site are smaller sized quartz points, many of which are extremely clear and in great condition.

You can read more about the Crystal Vista dig site in this article: Crystal Vista Arkansas | Dig Your Own Crystals For Free!

2. Wegner Quartz Crystal Mine

The Wegner Quartz Crystal Mine is one of the leading producers in Arkansas, producing an incredible amount of crystals. If you’re the adventurous type, you can check out their paid digs that allow normal rockhounds to get in on the action.

There are two main attractions here: the Crystal Forest Mine and the tailings piles.

The former is an open-pit mine where you can freely dig. You can get your hands dirty or get to some serious work with hard rock mining in the same place. The location currently requires you to bring your own tools or buy them on-site, so make sure you stick your equipment in the car.

It’s one of the most popular paid digs around and the price is great. You’ll only need to spend $18 per 2 hours there, and kids are cheaper. A lot of impressive crystals have come from this area, and it’s not a bad idea to try your hand at it.

The tailings pit is tailings from the commercial operation of the pit. The owners add material to the area on a regular basis and you can get in for a smaller fee than you’d pay to do some actual digging. It’s an easier way to look for crystals, and the pit is handicap accessible.

The Wegner Quartz Crystal mine is located south of Mt. Ida, and you can find more details about their tourism operation on their web page . 

3. Coleman’s Rock Shop & Crystal Mines

Another attractive spot to find quartz crystals is Coleman’s Crystal Mines. The location is one of the cheaper paid digs and they offer a money-back guarantee if you don’t find any crystals while you’re searching. Considering the low upfront cost, I’d say it’s well worth a shot.

They’re one of the biggest producers of quartz crystals in the region and they also offer material to be shipped home for you to dig through if you can’t make it to the site.

It’s a tailings dig for the most part. The actual mine is hard rock mining done with heavy equipment, so you’ll be going through things that have already been dug out from the pit proper. There’s a lot of clear crystal in this area and you’re sure to find something.

There’s also a great little rock shop on site. It might not seem like much if you’re coming out of Quartzite but every good rock shop still standing deserves a visit.

Overall, this may not be the most popular dig site for tourists but it can be a great experience. Digging through tailings is normal for a paid dig, and the Rock Shop/Crystal Mine hybrid business model is pretty cool.

Just be aware you’ll want to drag along your own tools. The only thing sold on-site are gardening forks to help rake through the soft material of the tailings. A folding shovel and a screen will make finding great crystals a lot easier.

The mine is a bit north of Hot Springs, Arkansas. You can find more information about the dig on their website .

4. Ron Coleman Mining

In a different location, with a different Coleman heading things, you can find another great quartz mining experience. For $25 an adult can dig all day, starting at 8 in the morning. There’s also a tour of the commercial mine, so you can see how it’s done with heavy equipment and professional diggers.

The site offers a lot of quartz in the tailings and the unlimited dig time is a nice touch. This mine produces primarily clear quartz, there are no significant deposits of amethyst or other varieties to be found. Still, the ability to pull attractive clusters from the ground is a win for everyone!

If you’re local to the area, they even have a calendar where they show how much material has been added to the site. Going in right after a big load of tailings has been added to the tourist area is your best bet for finding exquisite specimens.

They’re even pet-friendly, as long as your dog is leashed and well-mannered. That’s a big bonus for families on an adventure.

Overall, it’s a pretty standard paid dig for Arkansas. On the cheaper side of things too. There are some considerable extras for people who are more tourists than amateur miners. Check out the information on their site to see if it looks good for your trip!

5. Twin Creek Crystal Mine

Located near the Wegner Quart Crystal Mine, south of Mt. Ida, this mine produces some great crystals. It’s a little bit more of a pain to get into since you’ll have to inquire beforehand, but it’s worth a shot if you’re in the area.

The good news? It’s worth it since you’ll be digging in the actual mine rather than going through tailings. Nothing against tailing digs, you can find some great stuff and it helps keep mines open, but actual mining is far more attractive for experienced rockhounds.

They have digging experiences set up for everyone from newbies to seasoned hands, and it appears they do their best to tailor to individuals rather than just being a tourist trap. That alone might make the extra effort you’ll need to put into the inquiry worth it.

If you don’t mind the bit of hassle, check out their site and see if their offerings are what you’re looking for in a crystal dig.

6. Board Camp Crystal Mine

Another of the bigger operations in Arkansas is the Board Camp Crystal Mine. It’s by reservation only, so it’s not good for a “tourist trap” style stop but if you put some forethought in you can get some impressive specimens.

There is also their “UnXplained Tours” which supposedly document supernatural phenomenon in the area. Apparently a TV show visited the site at one point, which doesn’t lend a ton of confidence, but it’s a nice little tourist distraction after you’ve mined.

The Board Cam Crystal Mine is a bit more modern of a situation than many of the smaller mines in Arkansas. That’s great for some things, but unfortunately it also means that they require reservations before you go on the dig.

The good news? It’s a forest dig! For those of us hailing from most areas that stones are found this is a welcome relief. Deserts are vast, beautiful areas but they’re also an absolute pain to mine in.

If this whole thing sounds up your alley I encourage you to check their site and see if you’re interested in making a reservation.

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Adventures Above and Below

Gem Panning

Gem Panning at Prospector’s Creek

Uncover the world.

During this above-the-ground adventure, uncover real gems, crystals, minerals, and fossils from all around the world while gem-panning at Prospector’s Creek®.

Keep all the gems and fossils you find

• Fun for all ages

• Prospector Creek is outside but covered
• Receive a gem or fossil identification card
• Staff help you identify your discoveries
• All fossils, gems and minerals are authentic
• Open all day, including after the last tour

Several Options for Mining Ore

Prospector’s bag mining rough.

Find real gems !

• Crystal Points
• and much more!

Gems and Minerals Mining Rough

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Find an assortment of fossils!

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*Most popular*

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• Gems, minerals AND fossils!
• Larger quantity and variety of gems, minerals, and fossils.
• Larger specimens as well.

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Quartz Crystal Mining

Crystal Digging at Ron Coleman Mine

Have you ever wanted to experience the thrill of discovering your own sparkling quartz crystals straight from the earth? Look no further than the Ultimate Arkansas Crystal Mining Experience! Nestled in the heart of the Ouachita Mountains, this adventure offers a unique opportunity to uncover your very own treasures. When you visit Ron Coleman Mine, you'll have the chance to sift through dirt and rocks in search of beautiful quartz crystals. Not only is crystal mining an exciting activity, but it also allows you to connect with the natural beauty of Arkansas in a truly unforgettable way. Whether you're a seasoned rockhound or a first timer, the Ultimate Arkansas Crystal Mining Experience is sure to leave you with memories that sparkle for years to come. So come on down and unearth the magic for yourself!

Ron Coleman Mine is open year-round for you to dig for crystals in Arkansas.  Our public crystal digging area is located just outside of Hot Springs, Arkansas. The mine and Gift Shop are conveniently located on the same property.   Simply check in at the Gift Shop to pay your crystal digging fee, drive from the upper paved parking lot to the lower dirt parking lot and take a short walk to the digging area.  Some of the many features of our quartz crystal mine include:

Unlimited crystal digging for one day, during open hours, at the best quartz crystal digging site in Arkansas.

Anyone and everyone who pays a crystal digging fee at our Gift Shop is welcome to our lower parking lot and public tailings digging area, no reservations necessary. You can take home everything you can carry at no additional charge! Crystal hunting is fun for every age. We are open all day, every day, year-round (with the exception of Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day). 

Please note:  We will not sell digging permits 30 minutes before the digging area closes.  

We are a pet friendly business.  If your dog is well behaved, does not bark at other people and dogs, is leashed and under owner control at all times and you bring waste bags, it is allowed to “mine” with you. 

• Price : Daily Crystal Digging Fee: 
• Training :  Our friendly staff will direct you to the crystal digging area, go over our few rules, guide you on what you’ll be looking for, provide expert answers to any questions you may have. We also have a cart driver in the digging area you can flag down at any time to assist you.
• Tools : Bring your own or purchase tools and safety gear, such as a small hand shovel, protective gloves and eye wear.  
• What you can expect to find - white quartz, clear quartz crystal points and clusters.  You can also check out YouTube videos showing people digging at Ron Coleman Mining to learn more about digging your own crystals before you visit. #quartzminenearme #crystalminesarkansas #paytodigcrystalsnearme

  Mining Crystals In Arkansas

Pay to dig crystals near me.

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MINE HISTORY

The 130-year history of mining in the Coeur d'Alenes has created a unique and colorful mining culture.Go underground and see what they experienced...

A FUN EXPERIENCE

Go underground with Wally! Your guide, Wally, a hard-rock miner for 16 years as he shares experiences and shows you around the Sierra Silver Mine ...

Go Underground on an Adventure! Throughout Summer, Fall and Spring. Hours: May, Sept., & Oct. 10am-2pm, 7 days a week through Oct. 15 June, July & August, 10am-4pm, 7 days a week

Welcome to The Sierra Silver Mine Tour!

What is our Mission?

The Sierra Silver Mine Tour is dedicated to educating current and future generations as to the culture, history and contemporary practices of hard-rock mining in the Coeur d'Alene Mining District.

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WHERE WE ARE

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Sierra Silver Mine Tour, Inc. 509 Cedar Street Wallace, Idaho USA 83873 (208) 752-5151 [email protected]

 Need Directions? Click Here.

The most popular, exciting, and educational tour in North Idaho.

Fun for adventurers of all ages! You will personally experience the actual methods of hard-rock mining in the richest silver district on earth! A retired miner is your guide you through a real silver mine. On the short trip to and from the mine aboard our classic trolley, you will be treated to a narrated tour of Historic Wallace. 1 hour and 15 minute tours depart from the ticket office every 30 minutes with the first tour departing at 10am and the last at 4pm.

• Seniors (60 and better) $16
• Children (4-16 years) $10
• (Children under 4 years free)
• Family (2-Adults & 2 or more children between 4 -16) $55
• Group rates available for 10 or more people with advance purchase.
• School field trips and children's activities groups are always welcome and receive a special rate with advance reservations.
• AAA discount
• Open 7 days a week from May 1 st through Oct. 15 th : Jun. - Aug.: 10 AM - 4 PM
• May, September and October: 10 AM - 2 PM
• New tour leaves every 1/2 hour - The first tour departing at 10 AM and the last tour departs at 4 PM
• Tour length: 1 hours and 15 minutes
• Bring your camera and a light jacket
• Mine temp. about 50 degrees F (10 C)

We are committed to the health and safety of our guests and crew. We will sanitize our equipment and trolley after every tour and we encourage you to wear your mask.

Opening May 15th!

Mining Museums and Tours

Date: August 29, 2016

Last Updated on November 17, 2023

There are opportunities all over the country to visit mines and mining museums and learn more about U.S. mining. The following lists information on mining tours and museums in the United States and Canada.

If you have information on a mining tour, museum or other educational resource that you would like to share contact: Ashley Burke, (202) 463-2642, [email protected]

Usibelli Coal Mine Healy, Alaska

Tours are available during summer months by appointment. For tour information, call 907-683-2226.

This giant mine along the Nenana River feeds six power plants in Interior Alaska and ships 750,000 tons of coal down the Alaska Railroad to Seward.

Information on Mining Tours in Alaska

This page lists many of the exciting tours offered in Alaska. It also includes phone numbers for more information and admission costs.

Arizona Mining and Mineral Museum 1502 W. Washington St. Phoenix, AZ 602-255-3791

Mon-Fri, 8am-5pm., Sat, 11am-4pm.

Free Admission Extensive collection of mineral specimens. Historic headframe and mine train.

Asarco Mineral Discovery Center  1421 W Pima Mine Road Sahuarita, AZ 85629 (520) 625-7513

Tues-Sat, 9am-5pm

Open Pit Mine & mill tour rates: Adults $6; Children $4

No charge to the Mineral Discovery Center exhibits & theater. Open-pit mine & mill tours available, exhibits on geology, mining & uses of minerals; historic & present-day mining equipment, view videos, gift shop.

Copper Queen Mine Underground Tour 118 Arizona Street Bisbee, AZ 85603 (520) 432-2071 1-866-432-2071

Daily tours: 9:00, 10:30, 12:00, 2:00, 3:30, Adults: $8.00 Youth (7-11): $3.50 Children (3-6) : $2.00 Children under 3 : free

Explore one of the oldest copper mines in Arizona. Former miners show how turn-of-the-century mines were operated. Avg. temperature in mine 47 degrees.

Copper Queen Mine Tours B  (Historic District and Surface Mine Tours) 118 Arizona Street Bisbee, AZ 85603 (520) 432-2071 1-866-432-2071

Daily tours: 10:30am, noon, 2pm, 3:30 pm Tour Price: $7.00, children under 3 are free.

This is a narrated van tour that takes you to the leaching plant, mine shafts, atop dumps, around the perimeter of the pit, and through the city as turn-of-the-century architecture.

Phelps Dodge Bagdad Contact: Bob Delgado at 928-633-3490

Phelps Dodge arranges tours for individuals and groups.

U.S. Borax 14486 Borax Road Boron, CA 93516 (760) 762-7588

U.S. Borax has a Visitor Center that overlooks its active boron mine, the largest open pit mine in California. The visitor center is free and open seven days a week (excluding major holidays) from 9-5. Parking is also free and accessible to RVs.

Estevan Mine For more information contact: Estevan Tourism (306) 634-6044

Free tour, please call 306-643-6044 for more information. The Shand Power Plant provides a free guided mine / power plant tour. The mine runs two tours daily, in the morning and the afternoon. The tours can accommodate groups of twelve.

The #2 Mine Tour and Museum

Bell Island #2 Mine and Community Museum, 13 Compressor Hill, Bell Island, NL A0A 4H0

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, June 1 to September 30

Tel: 709-488-2880 Toll Free: 1-888-338-2880

Lebanon Mine 1106 Rost St. Georgetown, CO

1-800-691-4FUN 303-569-2403 (Accessible only aboard the Georgetown Loop Railroad)

9:20-4pm Daily Adults $6 for mine tour plus $14.40 for train. Children 3-15 are $4 plus $9.50 for train. The mine tour is available via the Georgetown Loop Railroad except the last departure of the day.

National Mining Hall of Fame and Museum   120 W. 9th St. Leadville, CO 719-486-1229

Summer (May-October): 9-5, daily Winter (November-April): 9-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday. Adults: $10 Seniors (65+): $9 Students (6+, college students included): $8 Children under six: Free.

Converted school offers 12 rooms of displays, models, mine replicas, historic photographs and other mining treasures. Spectacular mineral collection.

Old Hundred Mine  PO Box 430 Silverton, CO 81433 1-800-872-3009

Daily tours: 10am-4pm. Adults: $13.95 Children (5-12): $6.95 Under 5 (held on lap): Free Seniors (60+): $12.95

Children on tour can pan free for silver and gold in Old Hundred sluice box. Tours run about 55 minutes. Picnic area, snacks and gift shop.

Western Museum of Mining & Industry  225 North Gate Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO 80921 (719) 488-0880

Mon-Sat: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Adults: $9 Military/AAA: $8 Students: $7 Children (4-12): $5 3 and under: free with paid adult Museum Members: free

Museum collects, restores and display mining artifacts. Actual operation of steam engines, drills, pumps and other mining equipment. Four museum buildings and outdoor displays.

Dahlonega Gold Museum 1 Public Square, Dahlonega, GA (706) 864-2257

Mon-Sat: 9 a.m.-4:45 p.m., Sun: 10 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Adults: $8.50 Seniors:$8 Youth (7-17): $6 Children (6 & under): Free

See the collection of artifacts from the U.S.’s first gold rush, twenty years prior to the California gold rush.

Pine Mountain Gold Museum 1881 Stockmar Road, Villa Rica, GA (678) 840-1445

Tues-Sat: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Adult: $5 Senior: $4 Children (3-12): $4 Military/First-Responders: $4 Student $4, Children (2 & under): Free

Sitting on an actual gold mine with gold panning on site, this museum houses gold mining and regional artifacts dating as far back as 12,000 BC.

Consolidated Gold Mine Tour 185 Consolidated Gold Mine Road, Dahlonega, GA (706) 864-8473

Offers a tour of a gold mine and gold panning on site.

Georgia Marble Museum 1985 Kennesaw Ave., Nelson, GA (770) 735-2211

Mon-Fri: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Open Pit Mining Tours available only in early October.

Once a year during the Georgia Marble Festival, the museum offers a tour of the world’s largest open pit marble quarry at Polycor Georgia Marble Company’s Tate operation.

Crystal Gold Mine  51931 Silver Valley Road Kellog, ID (208) 783-GOLD

9-6pm daily. Seniors: $8.50 Adults: $10

Tour an authentic 1880s underground gold mine. See crystal and stalactite formations; mining artifacts.

Sierra Silver Mine Underground Tour 420 5th St. Wallace, ID (208) 752-5151

Daily every 30 minutes, 9-4. (July & August until 6 p.m.) (No Children Under 4) 1 hour 15 minutes Adults,$8; Seniors,$7; Children, 4-16, $6.50. Children (6-11): $2 Children under six: Free

Trolley takes you to the minesite. An experienced miner guides you as you witness exhibits, methods & techniques for hard-rock silver mining.

Western Wallace District Mining Museum 509 Bank St. Wallace, ID (208) 556-1592

(July-August) 8-8, daily. Adults, $2; Seniors $1.50; Children $.50 See artifacts from historic silver and mining era.

Museum of Science and Industry 57th and Lake Shore Dr Chicago, IL (773) 684-1414

May 30-Sept 4- 9:30-5:50 daily. Adults: $9 Seniors: $7.50 Children (3-11): $5

Visit the Old Ben #17 Coal mine shaft and learn about the development, and history of coal and coal mining.

Kansas Underground Salt Museum Hutchinson, Kansas (620) 662-1425, Toll Free: 866-755-3450

Email:  [email protected]

Winter Hours: Tuesday-Friday Open 9-5 Tours for General Public at 10:00, 11:40, 1:00, 3:00 Additional times offered as demand requires. Please check the web site for Summer hours $13.50 – Regular Ticket $8.50 – Children 4 – 12 Children under the age of 4 are not permitted in the mine.

Visitors who bring a Cosmosphere ticket stub from the past 30 days receive a discount to the Kansas Underground Salt Musuem. Visitors can also redeem their ticket from the Salt Museum at the Cosmosphere for a discounted admission.

Kentucky Coal Mining Museum Benham, KY and Lynch, KY (606) 848-1530

Mon-Sat: 10-5 Sun: 1-4pm Adults: $5 Children: $2.50 Seniors: $4

Guided or self-guided tours available; you’ll get a feel for what it was like to live, work, and play at these unique camps in Benham and Lynch.

A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum  Michigan Tech 1400 Townsend Dr. 5th Floor EERC Bldg. Houghton, MI

Mon – Fri: 9-4:30 Sat: noon-4

Free admission, donations accepted. Famous for world-class collection of Lake Superior copper and iron district minerals. 60,000 specimens from around the world.

Michigan Iron Industry Museum 73 Forge Road Negaunee, MI 49866

The Michigan Iron Industry Museum highlights the state’s iron mining industry, which has flourished for more than 125 years. The museum tells the story of the industry and the people who worked in it.

Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area  PO Box 404 Ironton, MN 56455 (218) 546-5926

Daily 8am-4pm Check website for further details.

Tour the Croft Mine historical park, with its historic buildings, underground iron mine tour, museum and gift shop, as well as other recreational activities such as fishing, and canoeing.

Hill Annex Mine State Park  PO Box 376 Calumet, MN 55716 (218) 247-7215

Daily 9am-5pm Check website for further details.

Tour of iron ore mine and facilities (museum, historic site, picnic area, scenic overlook, fossil hunt, and gift shop).

Iron World Discovery Center  Highway 169 West Chisolm, MN

Daily 9:30-5pm Adults: $8 Seniors: $7 Students: $6 Family Pass: $30 Children under 7: Free

Dramatic glass and steel museum perched on open pit iron mine. Relates iron mining history through lifelike displays and audio, including living history tapes.

Minnesota Museum of Mining   900 Lake Street West Chisolm, MN 55719 (218) 254-5543

Memorial Day-Labor Day: 9am-6pm Adults: $3 Family: $8.00 Students: $2 Special requests and tours available Group reservations call: 218-254-7158

View the museum’s historic mining equipment, simulated underground mine, gift shop and event grounds.

Soudan Underground Mine State Park  P.O. Box 335 Soudan, MN 55782 Phone (218) 753-2245 Fax (218) 753-2246

Please see website for more information. We offer an underground tour of the mine, which takes visitors 2341 feet below the surface, and then 3/4 of a mile to the stope area.

Taconite Mine Tours  Hibbing, Taconite is located near Chisolm on Minnesota’s Mesabi Iron Range.

Wed. & Thur: noon. Advance reservations are encouraged. Contact Ironworld Discovery Center. Children must be 10 years or older and accompanied by an adult. Admission: $6 per person. Please see website for more information.

You’ll visit the mine, the concentrator & the agglomerator. Slacks & comfortable shoes are recommended. Hard hats, safety glasses and earplugs will be furnished.

Missouri Mines State Historic Site  St. Joe State Park in Old Lead Belt, Southeast Missouri (573) 431-6226

Mon-Sat: 10-4 Sun: 12-7pm Adults: $2 Children 6-12: $1.25 Under 6: Free Groups of 15+: Adults: $1; Children: $.50. Check website for more information.

On weekends, a miner–retired from the property–is present for tours. 12-minute film from St. Joe Lead Co., which had operated the site.

Tri-State Mineral Museum  Schifferdecker Park corner of 7th and Chifferdecker Ave. Joplin, MI (417) 623-2341

Open year round Mon-Sat: 10-5 Sun: 2-5pm Adults: $2 Family rate: $5 Group rates available Free admission on Tuesdays For more information or to schedule a group tour, please contact the Museum at 417-623-2341.

Mineral specimens and memorabilia focusing on mining and minerals in Missouri, Kansas and Oklahoma.

World Museum of Mining 155 Museum Way P.O. Box 33 Butte, MT 59703 406-723-7211 (April 1 – October 31)

9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. (last ticket sold at 4:30) $8.50 adults, $5 children 5-17 years old, $7.50 Seniors over 65 Please call for school groups.

Guides for tours of the museum can be arranged at $25 plus admission. One-day mining history and geology trips, escorted by a geologist, available summer 2004.

One of very few mining museums on the site of an underground metal mine. Extensive collection of artifacts in outdoor mine yard, including original 100-foot-high headframe of Orphan Girl mine; museum in Orphan Girl hoist room. Lecture Series in summer and fall. Thousands of period artifacts in Hellroaring Gulch, 1890’s mining town with 50 buildings; Garrett mineral collection. Special Events, educational programs, and outreach available.

Bannack State Park 4200 Bannack Rd Dillon, MT 59725 (406) 834-3413

The best preserved ghost town west of the Mississippi, Bannack State Park is the site of the first major gold rush in Montana. Over 60 Historic structures still stand and are open for you to explore. During the summer months they offer free town tours every day, and gold panning. On the weekends, they offer the same free tours and a tour of our mill for $4 a person. Just stop by the visitors center for more information, or give them a call at (406) 834-3413.

North Dakota

Beulah Mine Beulah, ND

Tours available by appointment. Call Dakota Westmoreland Corporation in Beulah at (701) 873-4333

Owned and operated by the Dakota Westmoreland Corporation, Beulah, ND. Supplies lignite to the Coyote Station and Heskett Station. Domestic lignite also available.

Center Mine Center, ND

Tours available by appointment Monday through Friday. Contact the mine at (701) 794-8734.

Owned and operated by BNI Coal, Ltd., Center, ND (a subsidiary of Minnesota Power, Duluth, MN). Supplies lignite to the Milton R. Young Station, Center, ND.

Falkirk Mine Underwood, ND

Tours available by appointment Monday through Friday (24-hour notice required). Contact Falkirk at (701) 442-5751.

Operated by The Falkirk Mining Company (a subsidiary of The North American Coal Corporation, Dallas, TX), Underwood, ND. Supplies lignite to the Coal Creek Station.

Freedom Mine Beulah, ND

Tours available Monday-Friday by appointment (24-hour notice required). Call Coteau at (701) 873-2281.

Supplies lignite to the Great Plains Synfuels Plant, Antelope Valley Station, Leland Olds Station and Stanton Station. The largest lignite mine in the United States, operating two 120-cubic-yard draglines and a fleet of 200-ton overburden trucks.

W.M. Keck Museum Mackay School of Mines University of Nevada, Reno (775) 784-4528

Open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed weekends and university holidays. Group tours available – please call for appointments. Admission is free.

Founded in 1908, this museum hosts a spectacular collection of minerals, rocks, fossils and mining artifacts. Exhibits span three floors.

Barrick Gold of North America Community Relations [email protected] (775) 748-1000

Group tour requests are accommodated when possible. Reservations are required; please give 6-8 weeks advance notice. Inquire via email or phone.

Tours are arranged by inquiry and site visited and areas toured will be determined by the topic(s) of interest for the inquiring group.

McCaw School of Mines Henderson, NV 703-779-8930

Call 702-779-8930 for further information, or visit their website.

4,500 sq. ft. structure portrays the history & importance of mining in Nevada. Includes a simulated tunnel connecting 4 interior alcoves that depict: historical mining, mining in Nevada, geology & minerals and modern day mining. The McCaw School of Mines is an introduction to mining for elementary school students.

Newmont Mining Corporation Elko, Nevada 702-635-4302

Second Tuesday of the month throughout the season Depart 9 a.m. from museum; returns to museum at noon. 12 & up only. Call 702-635-4302 for information. Reservations required 24 hours in advance.

Tour the Newmont Mining Corporation, the largest gold producer in North America and second largest in the world.

Newmont Mining Corporation Winnemucca, Nevada (775) 635-4302

Tours offered on the third Thursday of each month. Tours depart from the Lone Tree mine at 9:00 a.m. and return at noon. 12 & up only.

Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance. Long pants and closed-toe shoes required. Call (775) 635-4302 for reservations or more information.

Newmont Mining Corporation Elko, Nevada (775) 778-4068

Tours offered on the second Tuesday of the month, April through October. Tours depart from the Northeastern Nevada Museum at 9:00 a.m. and return at noon. 12 & up only.

Reservations required at least 48 hours in advance. Closed-toe shoes required. Call (775) 778-4068 for reservations or more information.

Tonopah Historic Mining Park Located on a hillside above Tonopah, NV (775) 482-9274

Walking tours conducted on weekends and by appointment. Call 1-775-482-9274 for information and reservations.

Visit 80 acres of century-old mining works; many of the buildings house original equipment. Tour the Visitors Center which is filled with mining info. Gold and silver deposit started the first great mining camp of 20th century.

Sterling Hill Mine and Mining Museum 20 Plant St. Ogdensburg, NJ 973-209-7212

Apr-Now: Daily tours, 11am July-Aug: Daily tours at 1 pm & 3pm. Adults: $9, Seniors: $8, Children: $6

Extensive and interesting mining memorabilia in museum; mine displays beautiful fluorescent minerals for which the mine is famous.

Grants Mining Museum 100 N. Iron Ave. Grants, NM 1-800-748-2142 505-287-4802

Mon-Sat: 9-4, closed Sun Adults: $3, Children 7-18: $2, Under 7: Free

Groups and tour guides by appointment. Please call 1-800-748-2142 or 505-287-4802, or visit their website for more information. Tour the only uranium mining museum in the world. Underground conditions are recreated and domed in white stone and glass museum. Gems & minerals displayed from around the world.

Pennsylvania

Windber Coal Heritage Center 501 15th Street Windber, PA 15963-0115 Phone: (814) 467-6680 Toll-free: (877) 826-3933 Email:  [email protected]

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Operating Season: Wednesday, May 1 – Wednesday, October 31 (often extended through Dec. 31st)

The Windber Coal Heritage Center tells the story of a unique kind of community in our country – a community which was created and maintained by industry, devoted to serving that industry and the people it employed.

Pennsylvania State Univ. Earth and Mineral Sciences Museum and Art Gallery 112 Steidle Bldg. Pollock Rd State College, PA 814-865-6427

Free admission. Mon-Fri: 9-5pm, Sat-Sun: 1-5pm. Tour the museum’s fine display of minerals, fossils & artifacts. A most extensive collection of paintings and sculpture depicting mining and related industries.

South Dakota

Black Hills Mining Museum 323 W. Main St. Lead, SD 57754 (605) 584-1605

Seasonal Hours-

Summer Schedule: Open mid-May until mid-October, Monday through Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00. Closed Sunday.

Off-season by appointment only

The museum, gold panning, and tour are fee based.

The Black Hills Mining Museum was designated by the South Dakota State Legislature in 2014 as the official mining museum of South Dakota.  The museum offers a gift shop, gold panning, 5,000 sq. ft. museum with a theater, and its signature feature of a guided tour through a recreated underground level of the legendary Homestake gold mine that ran in Lead for 125 years.  Allow one hour for the tour.  Last tour leaves at 4:00 pm.

Mining Heritage Exhibit at the Chihuahua Desert Research Institute and Nature Preserve (432) 364-2499

Open all year; admission is free. Guides can be arranged by calling the CDRI at 505-364-2499.

Constructed by a group of Mining Engineers and Geologists who were classmates at Texas Western College (now UTEP) 1957-1961, the idea is to show how small-scale mining would have been carried out in the Chihuahua Desert, which includes West Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and northern Mexico in the old days.

In addition to an 18-ft. high head frame and 50 ft. of track for small ore cars, a pavilion houses many exhibits like drills, carbide lamps, old mine maps and photos, and relics used with explosives. There are also piles of boulders of several ores which have been mined in the region.

It is a great education exhibit for school children and senior groups, and admission is free.

Washington, D.C.

Janet Annenberg Hooker Hall of Geology Gems and Minerals Smithonian National Museum of Natural History Washington DC 202-357-2700

Free Admission. Open 10am-5:30 daily. From the Hope Diamond to the walk-through mine (funded by members of National Mining Association), experience the finest gem and mineral collection and interactive, educational exhibits.

West Virginia

Exhibition Coal Mine New River Park Beckley, WV 304-256-1747

Tours 10am-5:30pm. Adults: $8, Seniors: $7, Children 4-12: $5, Children under 4: Free Includes underground mine tour and surface buildings. Shows low-seam coal mine from its earliest manual stages to modern mechanized operation.

West Virginia Mine Wars Museum 336 Mate Street Matewan, WV 25678 304-546-8473

The West Virginia Mine Wars Museum, in the heart of Historic Matewan, preserves and interprets artifacts and historical records of the local communities affected by the West Virginia Mine Wars, exploring historical events from multiple perspective through the lives of ordinary people.

Scotts Run Museum and Trail P0 Box 264 Osage, WV 26543 304-599-1931

This Museum and History Trail is a project of the nonprofit Scott’s Run Park and Recreation, Inc, for the purpose of preserving the legacy and oral history of the coal boom in the nine communities that make up Scott’s Run, and to encourage development of the park, gardens, music row, and businesses in the area.

National Coal Heritage Area – Bramwell Depot 100 Simmons St Bramwell, WV 24715 1-866-858-5959

The Historic Bramwell Depot construction project is a part of the Heritage Park that was developed in Bramwell, WV. The depot is officially known as the Southern Interpretive Center of the Coal Heritage Trail, a National Historic Byway. The original train station was demolished in the 1950s. It was rebuilt by a federal government grant. Groundbreaking for rebuilding the depot was held on August 2,1996. the Depot now houses interpretive exibits that offer insight into the rich heritage of the Poachontas Coalfields. Depot serves as a welcome center for tourist visiting the Home of the Bramwell Millionaires. It was completed in 2003 and is now open seven days a week.

Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation Museum 347 Main Street Boone County Madison, WV 25130 304-369-0316 or 304-369-9118

The Bituminous Coal Heritage Foundation Museum was created by the Boone County Development Corporation and chartered by the State of West Virginia. The growth of the West Virginia Coal Festival and area historic attractions encouraged Foundation members and the Development Authority to develop a museum. The downtown coal museum showcases the history of coal and its people. The museum was and remains an educational place visited by schoolchildren, out of area visitors, and former coal miners and their decedents.

Royce J. and Caroline B. Watts Museum 401 Evansdale Dr Morgantown, WV 26505 304-293-4609

The Royce J. and Caroline B. Watts Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the social, cultural, and technological history of West Virginia’s coal and petroleum industries through the collection, preservation, research and exhibition of historical objects and archival materials.

The Watts Museum is housed in the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources at West Virginia University.

The Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums

405 East Main Street Platteville, WI 53818 608-348-3301

Your underground adventure awaits! Tour the 1845 Bevans Lead-Zinc Mine, ride in a 1931 mine train (weather permitting), and discover the local history of the Upper Mississippi Valley mining district. The Museums trace the development of lead and zinc mining in the Upper Mississippi Valley using models, dioramas, artifacts, and photographs. A guided tour includes a walk down into the 1845 Bevans Lead Mine, a tour of the headframe building and hoist house, and an above-ground outdoor train ride pulled by a 1931 mine locomotive. The Rollo Jamison Collection exhibits include artifacts, stories and music of home, farm and family life and nostalgic local cultural history.

Black Thunder Mine

Call for more information; please call to determine if a group tour can be scheduled in June, July or August 2009.

Near Gillette, WY. Call for tour information: (307) 464-2201

Foundation Coal West, Inc. For more information, contact:

Gillette Convention and Visitors Bureau 1810 S. Douglas Highway, #A Gillette, WY 82718 307-686-0040

Call for more information, or visit the website. Learn about the coal mining industry in Campbell County (Gillette, WY) which provides over 30% of the United States coal for electrical power generation.

© 2022, National Mining Association

Opening Day for the 2023 Season is May 20th, 2023!

Fun for the whole family.

Gemstone Panning

The Black Hills Caverns allows anyone to pan for real gemstones. This activity is great for kids of all ages. Keep your treasures as you learn to identify numerous Black Hills rocks, minerals, gems, and fossils. Our different types of mining packs offer gems and fossils from 100 million years old all the way to 500 million years old. Come mine for over 53 different types of Gems! Be sure to ask about our daily specials on Gemstone Panning and the discount if you are also going to sign up for one of our awesome Black Hills Caverns Cave Tours. Come find gems and fossils from Mexico, the United States, South America, Asia, & Africa.

Crystal Mining

Super Fun and FREE for Kiddos under 6 who join their parents on either Cave Tour. Dig for rough crystals, and keep your favorite three.

A Safe and enjoyable time for the little ones and Moms and Dads too!

The Cave is Always a Warm 56°...

(812) 734-1200

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SLUICE, DISCOVER, & IDENTIFY!

Gemstone mining at indiana caverns.

Enjoy sifting through the sand to uncover gemstones and fossils. Pick your bag in the gift shop and head to the Peccary Mining Sluice outside. Once you’ve found your treasures, enjoy identifying the rocks and fossils. 

Discover treasure as you sluice, and enjoy learning about rocks as you identify your finds. Rain or shine with a covered roof or take your bag home!

P urchase your mining bag in the gift shop and head to the Peccary Mining Sluice. Gemstone mining bags are not available for online purchase.

Learn More about gemstone mining

Open Rain or Shine! 

Gemstone mining is available year round. We have two partially covered sluices. Mine with us today! 

Multiple Children?

Do you have two children and want to share a gemstone mining bag between them? No problem!  Dump half the bag in one sifter and the remainder in another. However, we can't promise the treasure will be split evenly. 

Finders. Keepers. 

Anything you find is yours to keep! Your discoveries are 100% yours to take home.

Gemstone Mining Bags

Upon arrival, purchase your bag in the gift shop and head to the Peccary Mining Sluice.

Gemstone mining bags are not available for online purchase.

Perfect for a beginner with gemstones, pyrite, arrowhead, crystal & more.

Contains emeralds, gemstones, pyrite, arrowheads, and much more. 

Perfect for a budding paleontologist with shark teeth and 15 different fossils.

Enjoy fireworks of color in this bag with red, white, and blue crystal and pyrite gemstones.

Enjoy crystals from all over the world in this amazing gemstone mining bag!

The BB+ bag contains gemstones, arrowhead, crystal, pyrite, fossils, plus a big surprise!

The Bonanza bucket contains XL gems and amethyst, plus a surprise in every bucket.

Upon arrival,  purchase  your bag in the  gift shop  and head to the Peccary Mining Sluice.

Upon arrival, purchase  your bag in the  gift shop  and head to the Peccary Mining Sluice.

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