Little kids love to collect rocks, even if it’s just a piece of gravel. Even older kids get a kick out of working the gemstone mining station found at Howe Caverns and some amusement parks.
Why not capitalize on that interest to introduce children to geology while scoring some nifty treasures prospecting at a real working quarry?
Rockhounds in the Capital Region have several options for mining gem stones at fee dig sites.
Herkimer Diamonds -They’re actually quartz crystals, but they sparkle like the real thing. And, if you’re lucky, you might find one big enough to turn into pendent or paperweight.
Herkimer Diamond Mines and KOA Kampground - Located 1.5 hours from Albany.
- Prospecting Admission Rates: $10.00/Adults; $8.00/Ages 5-12; Free/Ages 0-4.
- Fee Includes: All-day Prospecting; Informational video; Museum admission; Use of hammer; Zip-lock Collector’s bags.
- Go for the day, or plan a vacation at the KOA Campground.
- Group programs include: Home School Outing on June 7, Summer Camps, and Girl Scout or Boy Scout Camporees.
Crystal Grove Diamond Mine and Campground – Located 1.5 hours from Albany.
- Prospecting Admission Rates: $10.00/Adults; $8.00/Ages 5-14; Free/Ages 0-4.
- Fee Includes: All-day prospecting.
- Prospecting tools are available for rental.
- Nearby Attractions: Howe Caverns, Natural Stone Bridge & Caves; Upper Hudson River Railroad.
Ace of Diamonds Mine and Campground – Located 1.75 hours from Albany.
- Prospecting Admission Rates: $8.50/8-Older; $4.00/Ages 7-Younger.
- Fee Includes: All-day prospecting.
- Prospecting tools are available for rental.
Barton Garnets - The Barton garnet is the New York State Gem Stone. This rare garnet, found only on Gore Mountain, has “an unusual and beautiful ruby red color that flashes in the sun.”
Garnet Mine Tours – Located 1.25 hours from Albany.
- Prospecting Admission Rates: $11.50/Adults; $7.50/Ages 7-14; Free/Ages 0-6.
- Fee Includes:All-day Prospecting; Guided tour describing the history and geology of the Garnet Mine and how to find your own Garnet Gemstone; Gem cutting demonstrations.
- Nearby Attractions: Natural Stone Bridge & Caves; Upper Hudson River Railroad.
Before You Go
- Pack: Water, Sunscreen, Bug Spray, Eye Protection, Collection Bag/Bucket, Tools (They’re usually available to rent, but if you can, bring a hammer & chisel & gloves for each prospector.) Oh, and if you’re kids are anything like mine, you might want to remind them to wear shoes!
Share This Post:
{ 1 trackback }