Anyone here go gemming in NC/SC? We were thinking of taking our 8 yo son (who's really into rocks and gems) to one of those "mining" places and I was wondering if anyone here had gone to any of the places, had any recommendations, ideas, places to stay, what not to do, etc. for a trip like that. Appreciate it.

Haven't been since I was a kid so I can't give you much advice. Something fun to do with the kids, but don't expect much. I'd avoid any road side attractions and find one in the mountains. You'll find some cool agates or occasional small garnets, although I had a friend that did find a ruby that ended up being valued around $8,000.

Thanks CB! Yes, it's primarily for my 8 yo son who loves rocks and gems and I think he'd get a lot of enjoyment out of doing it.

Have you heard of Herkimer Diamonds?

https://www.herkimerdiamond.com/

I know the perfect pet for him

Soccer, no, I had not, but that place looks great, thank you. Maybe next year when we go up to PA we can check that out.

Peepers, like a dog?

MB Guy:

Their Rock & Gem camp is great, both of my girls went to it every summer until they aged out.

My grown kids LOVE panning for gems. Heck, we all go to the river hunting cool stuff

Thanks Joker. Hoping we get to do it this summer.

There is one between Statesville and Asheville off I-40. I can't remember the name of it but you actually get to wade in a creek and pan for gems. When you finish you get a bucket to run through a sifter. Really fun! I suggest bringing your own shovel and sifter, although you can rent them at the location.

Just found it online. It is called Emerald Hollow in Hiddenite, NC. Really fun place.

i know someone who did it in a state park in Arkansas, https://www.arkansasstateparks.com/parks/crater-diamonds-state-park , they found a couple of small diamonds...

Thanks for the quality info Portermi.

That would be such an adventure for my son Happy. Maybe next year when we do a little more traveling than this year. Fortunately NC and SC are on our current route from PA to FL so we can stop over at those ones without going too far out of our way.