Since I wasn't sure what this was all about or whether my kids would enjoy it, I wanted to try this option first, and to be honest, I don't think I'd try any other place.Īfter you fill your bucket, the staff helps you get set up with screens, water and the tools you need to get started. Other local gem mining businesses charge a lot more (as much as $75 per bucket). Guess we will have to return soon to see what we come home with.įor $20 you get to fill up a bucket with dirt and rocks from the local Stewart Mine, known for its tourmaline. Other people mining with us did find some pretty large chunks of tourmaline. We didn't 'strike it rich,' but we have enough gems and cool rocks to make it worth while. I took my 7 and 9 year-old children and it was a great way to spend the day together. I wasn't sure if they were open because the website doesn't have links, but after calling the phone number and reading reviews I realized they were definitely open for business. This place is truly a hidden 'gem!' I had wanted to take my kids here last summer and we finally made it.