Emerald Creek Garnet Area
Clarkia, Idaho
About Emerald Creek Garnet Area
The only public fee-dig site in the US for star garnets — a rare 6-rayed variety found in only two places in the world (Idaho and India). Dig in ancient schist and metamorphic rock to find your own star garnets. The USDA Forest Service manages this site and limits digging to preserve the resource.
Gems & Minerals You Can Find
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Open in Google MapsPay-To-Dig Gem Mining at Emerald Creek Garnet Area
Emerald Creek Garnet Area is a pay-to-dig gem mine located in Clarkia, Idaho. Visitors can dig for Star Garnet, Almandine Garnet, Quartz and keep everything they find. Pay-to-dig experiences like Emerald Creek Garnet Area are popular with rockhounds, families, and gem enthusiasts looking for a hands-on outdoor adventure.
Looking for more rockhounding in Idaho? Explore free rockhounding locations in Idaho or browse all pay-to-dig mines in Idaho.