Gem Mining provides a lesson in geology, discovery, and good old-fashioned fun for the whole family. It’s a popular activity for guests of all ages and abilities. Campers can pan for gemstones and minerals just like Texans and prospectors of the past panned for precious gold, silver, and minerals. Back during the Gold Rush, over a hundred years ago, sluice boxes were used in bodies of water to recover gold and other minerals. Share the same prospector excitement to strike it rich with your children. Or, take the opportunity to roll up your sleeves and get your hands dirty right along with them.
How It’s Done
First, come inside the Ranger Station to choose what kind of treasure you want to find. We have many options for mining rough bags to choose from. Each type of rough bag is filled with undiscovered treasures. Pricing depends on the content type inside the rough bag and the size of the bag. We have several rough bag varieties from which to choose. Our bags include items such as fossils and large gemstones, colorful stones, rough emeralds, or even real shark’s teeth, just to name a few.
Next, head out to our mining sluice, outside the Ranger Station, and let the fun begin. Step up to the sluice and dump as much or as little of the contents of your rough bag into the sifting tray. With just a sifting tray, your bag of rough, our water sluice and a sense of curiosity see what treasure is waiting to be uncovered. Gather your discoveries and head over to our identification station. Then, take some time to classify the precious objects you found.
We can’t wait for you to enjoy the latest addition to our long list of many fun things for your family to experience at North Texas Jellystone Park.TM
