Emerald Hollow Mine
Dig for real emeralds, sapphires, and more at the only public mine of its kind in the U.S. A hands-on adventure for all ages!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed digging
Emerald Hollow Mine
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed digging
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dig for real emeralds, sapphires, and more at the only public mine of its kind in the U.S. A hands-on adventure for all ages!
"This is the real deal and while it is real work, the memories and the finds were absolutely worth it!"
Wear Old Clothes! :shirt:
The red clay stains permanently. Old clothes and shoes are a must!
Bring a Wagon :shopping_cart:
A wagon with large tires helps haul buckets and equipment over the rough terrain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Public Dig Site
Main Digging Area
Unearth your own emeralds, sapphires, quartz, and more in this expansive natural digging area. It's the real deal!
Creek Sluicing
Creek Bed
Pan for treasures in the creek, a refreshing way to find gems, especially on a warm day. Bring rain boots!
Bucket of Happiness
Sluiceway
Purchase pre-filled buckets for a guaranteed gem haul, perfect for kids and a fun, quick treasure hunt.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Digging for Gems: What to Expect
Timing Your Treasure Hunt
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Old Clothes! :shirt:
The red clay stains permanently. Old clothes and shoes are a must!
Bring a Wagon :shopping_cart:
A wagon with large tires helps haul buckets and equipment over the rough terrain.
Rain Boots for the Creek :boot:
Essential for comfortable creek sifting and exploring.
Pack Snacks & Water :water_buffalo:
Stay hydrated and fueled for a day of digging. Limited food options on-site.
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Old Clothes! :shirt:
The red clay stains permanently. Old clothes and shoes are a must!
Bring a Wagon :shopping_cart:
A wagon with large tires helps haul buckets and equipment over the rough terrain.
Rain Boots for the Creek :boot:
Essential for comfortable creek sifting and exploring.
Pack Snacks & Water :water_buffalo:
Stay hydrated and fueled for a day of digging. Limited food options on-site.
Check the Weather :cloud:
Digging can be hot and humid. Plan accordingly and consider cooler days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Emerald Hollow Mine for its unique gem-digging experience and friendly staff, highlighting the excitement of finding real treasures. However, some find the amenities lacking, particularly the restrooms, and note that the digging can be challenging with limited finds for the price. The red clay stains are a common complaint, and a wagon is highly recommended for navigating the terrain.
"Absolutely amazing place! The one and only public mine site in north America to dig emeralds. The folks here are very friendly and knowledgeable. I brought my two children with me to enjoy a day of digging. We found a few nice size corundum specimen and some very nice quartz crystals. You dont need your own equipment though I bring my own unfortunately epa regulations dont allow and metal tools in the creek with is ok by me seeing the creek has been salted i tend to avoid salted areas the dig site however is all natural and is where you can find your best quality stones. Would 100% recommend going here.
FYI the photos are of the corundum we found and some stones from different regions of NC."
Eli Bowen
"I am giving Emerald Hollow Mine three stars because it had some charm, but overall, it fell short of expectations.
The bathrooms were a nightmare—no soap, not very clean, and not what you would hope for in a family-friendly spot. The whole experience felt more like we were digging in someone’s backyard creek than visiting a professional mine. The creek area was just filled with your usual rocks, and the digging section was overgrown and difficult to work in. You have to haul your own shovel and bucket to the dig site, and a wagon system would really help here.
We filled a large bucket with dirt and came back with basically nothing but mud. It was hot, mosquitoes were everywhere, and it just was not worth the price we paid. It might be more enjoyable on a cooler day—and I would definitely recommend wearing swim trunks if you plan to do the creek part. Kids were swimming, and honestly, they seemed to have the right idea.
This place has potential, but it is definitely not what the advertisements make it out to be. With some improvements to the digging experience, cleanliness, and amenities, it could be a lot more enjoyable."
Kory Haas
"What a fun time! We always wanted to go actually dig and pan for gems and boy did this place deliver!
If you just want gems you can go to any tourist spot and just buy a bucket with gems bought and dropped in, but this is something different.
Is it hot? Yes. Does the red clay stain your clothes? Yes. It's it hard work? Yes, but the prospect of actually finding something cool makes it a great experience.
My 12 and 10 year old loved it. The staff was friendly and helpful and we actually found some garnet, amethyst, clear quartz and more.
This is the real deal and while it is real work, the memories and the finds were absolutely worth it and we would definitely do it again!"
Randy Spaulding
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emerald Hollow Mine is located in Hiddenite, North Carolina. It's about an hour from Charlotte and roughly 30 minutes from Statesville. The address is 484 Emerald Hollow Dr, Hiddenite, NC 28636.
Yes, there is parking available on-site. However, be prepared for a walk to the digging areas, and a wagon can be very helpful for transporting your gear.
Driving is the most common and practical way to reach Emerald Hollow Mine. Public transportation options are limited in this rural area.
While there isn't camping directly at the mine, there are hotels and other lodging options in nearby towns like Statesville and Taylorsville.
You can bring your own shovel and bucket, but metal tools are not allowed in the creek due to EPA regulations. The mine provides shovels and buckets if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing typically involves purchasing buckets of dirt to sift through, with different sizes and prices available. You can also pay for access to the creek or the main dig site. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
While not always required, booking in advance, especially for private digging tours or during peak seasons, is recommended to secure your spot.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Emerald Hollow Mine website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
Admission typically includes access to the digging areas and the creek, along with a provided shovel and bucket. You can purchase additional buckets of dirt for more sifting opportunities.
Keep an eye on their social media and website for any special promotions or coupons that might be offered, especially during holidays.
🎫 💎 Onsite Experience
You can find a variety of gems, including emeralds, sapphires, quartz, garnet, amethyst, corundum, and more. The finds are truly a treasure hunt!
Wear old clothes and sturdy shoes that you don't mind getting stained by red clay. Rain boots are highly recommended for the creek area.
Yes, it's a very family-friendly activity. Kids love the excitement of digging for their own treasures. +1
Basic amenities like restrooms are available. Some visitors have noted that cleanliness could be improved.
Yes, you can bring your own snacks and drinks. It's a good idea to pack plenty, as it's a full day of activity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are limited food options on-site, so it's best to bring your own snacks and drinks.
You'll find more dining options in the nearby towns of Statesville and Taylorsville, offering a range of choices from casual to sit-down restaurants.
Yes, bringing your own picnic is a great way to enjoy a meal amidst the natural surroundings.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the excitement of digging in the main pit, the scenic creek beds, and of course, your amazing gem finds! +1
Absolutely! Documenting your treasures is part of the fun. Many visitors share their finds on social media. +1
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and respect any posted rules.
A durable camera or smartphone that can handle dirt and moisture is ideal. Consider a waterproof case for your phone if you plan on spending a lot of time in the creek.
You can find many photos and videos on TikTok and Instagram by searching for #EmeraldHollowMine or related hashtags. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage them to wear old clothes and bring rain boots for the creek. The prospect of finding emeralds, sapphires, or quartz makes the hard work fun. Consider bringing a wagon to help little legs carry their finds and supplies. It's a memorable way to create core memories and teach kids about geology in a fun, interactive setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and drinks is a significant cost-saver. Instead of purchasing on-site or dining out, pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural surroundings. Consider visiting on a weekday to potentially avoid peak pricing or crowds. The real value lies in the experience and the potential for finding unique souvenirs you can keep forever.
💎 Gem Enthusiasts & Rockhounds
Researching vein structures and understanding the geology of the area can enhance your digging strategy. While the mine provides basic tools, experienced rockhounds might appreciate bringing their own specialized sieves or tools (where permitted) to refine their search. Don't overlook the creek for different types of mineral deposits. Sharing your finds online using hashtags like #crystaltok and #gemtok can connect you with a wider community.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Gem Hunting at Emerald Hollow Mine
The creek area provides a more refreshing experience, especially during warmer months. Wearing rain boots is highly recommended here to navigate the water and rocky terrain comfortably. While the creek can yield beautiful finds, some visitors note that the main dig site, despite being more challenging, offers the potential for higher quality specimens. It's important to remember that gem mining is a process of patience and persistence; not every bucket or sift will yield a spectacular find, but the thrill of discovery is a significant part of the adventure.
For those seeking a more guided experience, private digging tours are available, offering a chance to explore new acreage and learn about the mine's geology from experienced guides. These tours often provide a deeper understanding of the vein structures and mining techniques. Regardless of the method chosen, the core appeal lies in the real treasure hunt aspect – the possibility of uncovering something truly special with your own hands.
Navigating the Terrain and What to Bring
Clothing and footwear are crucial considerations. The distinctive red clay at Emerald Hollow Mine is notorious for staining clothes permanently, so wearing old, dedicated digging attire is essential. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for navigating the uneven ground. For the creek area, rain boots are a game-changer, keeping your feet dry and comfortable as you sift through the water.
Beyond gear, remember to pack essentials for a full day outdoors. Plenty of water and snacks are vital, as the digging can be physically demanding and the weather can be hot and humid. While there are basic restrooms, bringing your own hand sanitizer is also a good idea.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit