How Pay-To-Dig Mines Work
You pay an entry fee (usually $10–$50) and spend the day digging in a designated area. Whatever you find, you keep. Some mines enrich their dig areas with material brought in from other locations (called "salted" or "enriched" mines) — always ask before you pay.
What You Can Expect to Find
Results vary wildly by location. Gem mines in the Appalachians (NC, VA, GA) commonly produce ruby, sapphire, garnet, and kyanite. Western mines yield gold, turquoise, and opal. Midwest fee digs often focus on geodes, fossils, and fluorite.
Tips for a Productive Day
Arrive early for first pick of fresh material. Bring your own tools — many mines charge rental fees. Work slowly through the dig pile systematically rather than rushing. Bring a spray bottle to wet rocks — water dramatically improves visibility of crystal structure and color.
Find Pay-To-Dig Mines Near You
The We Lick Rocks pay-to-dig directory lists hundreds of fee mines across all 50 states, with photos, gem types available, pricing, and directions. Filter by state or gem type to find your next dig.