Q: Kids 16 and under dig free. So, if I drop my kids off can they dig for free?
A: NO! If you bring kids, at least one paying adult must be present. LIMIT two kids per paying adult. We do not babysit. Even if the adult in the party decides not to dig, they will still need to pay a dig fee. For Guide Digs the same applies. There must be one paying adult for every two kids in the party. Dig fees are how we keep the mine running.
Q: Where is the meeting Place?
A: We meet at the mine between 8AM and 9AM EST on public digs. See the directions tab.
Q: Will I need to bring my own tools?
A: Yes, you will need to bring any hand tools you wish to dig with.
Q: What type of tools will I need to bring?
A: Pick, Shovel, Rock Hammer, Hammer, Chisels, Rock Bars, 5 Gallon Buckets, Gloves, Safety Glasses, (Limit one 5 gallon bucket of material per person and one yard rock per dig.) These are recommendations, most people are fine with just a small but sturdy pick and a small shovel. No power tools are permitted. Water and spray bottles will really improve your success at the mine. Generally we use about 2 gallons of water per person over the course of a day digging. We don't have water onsite so bring enough to get you through the day.
Q: What kinds of Gems are at the mine?
A: Beryl, Star Rose Quartz, Black Tourmaline, and Aquamarine.
Q: How much does it cost?
A: $35 Per person over 16 years of age. Children 16 and under dig for free with paying adult LIMIT two kids per paying adult.
Q: If I bring my friends can I get in for free?
A: No. Unfortunately, everyone over 16 has to pay the dig fee.
Q: Can I bring Alcohol, Beer, Wine, Liquor, Wine Coolers, Mixed Drinks?
A: No. ALL Alcohol is prohibited at the mine. Please don't show up with it. You will be asked to leave.
Q: How long does the dig last?
A: The safety briefing ends around 9 AM. The mine closes at 5PM. When you have heard the safety briefing you can leave and come back as you need to. There are stores located within a mile for ice and drinks, and fast food 3 miles away.
Q: Why can't I dig outside the designated areas?
A: If there is marking tape present, or no trespassing signs, it's for safety reasons only or we do not own the land. Observe the areas that are marked and do not cross the boundaries. I want all of you to leave happy and with plenty of material. What I don't want is someone getting injured or trespassing.
Q: What is the difference between a guided dig and a regularly scheduled dig?
A: A Guided dig is scheduled for a day when there are no public dig. We offer guide digs Sunday-Friday. For parties under 10 people (kids or adults) the fee is $35 per adult (17 and up) + $100 for a guide fee. For parties over 10 people (kids or adults) the guide fee is $250.
Q: Can I come dig when the mine is operational and you have a machine present?
A: Yes, with reservations. If you are interested in paying a premium fee to dig on the days I have a machine on site, please use the Contact Us link to reserve.
Q: What do I get for the Guide dig fee?
A: A guide that will help you find material. This doesn't mean they will dig material for you, but they will show you where to dig and what to look for.
Q: My Favorite question... Where can I buy Rocks, Crystals, And Mineral Specimens?
A: There is a rock shop onsite. If you are looking for something rare or hard to find, I may have it. Message using the Contact Us link to inquire.
