Strike Gold at the Lakeview Putt & Play Gem Mine
Discover Real Gems and Minerals
Pan for real gems and minerals at our indoor gem mining sluice in Arden, just minutes from Asheville. Kids and families love discovering treasures hidden in our paydirt bags, each one packed with genuine gemstones, fossils, and minerals you can identify and take home. Educational and fun for ages 3 and up, our gem mining area is clean, climate-controlled, and guided by friendly staff ready to help you uncover your finds.
Your Gem Mining Adventure
Our indoor gem mining experience is simple, exciting, and hands-on. Purchase your paydirt bag at the counter, then head to our running-water sluice. Pour your bag into the sifting tray and let the water wash away the sand, revealing real gems and fossils underneath! Our staff helps you identify each find and provides a take-home collection bag.
What You’ll Find
Quartz (various colors)
Amethyst
Citrine
Jasper
Arrowheads (replicas)
Fossils
And more surprises!
How It Works
- Choose your paydirt bag size
- Take it to the sluice
- Sift and discover
- Identify your treasures
- Take them home to keep
Gem Mining Bag Prices
Our gem mining experience features a variety of themed mining bags sourced directly from the gem mine.
Pricing
Gem mining bags range from $7 to $45, depending on the theme and size you choose. Availability may change based on what the gem mine provides, and staff can help you pick the best option during your visit.
What’s Included:
Paydirt bag filled with gems
Use of sluice and tools
Identification guide
Collection bag to take home
Laminated gemstone flyer to take home
No reservation needed — just walk up!
Learn While You Mine
Gem mining isn’t just fun, it’s educational. Young prospectors discover geology, mineral formation, and identification skills while sorting through their finds. Our laminated identification charts make it easy to match names, colors, and types of stones.
Great for curious kids ages 3 and up, the Science Center blends fun and learning with hands-on exhibits that spark imagination and discovery. It’s a perfect family activity for rainy days, supports science and STEM education, and makes a memorable birthday party add-on or souvenir experience.
Add Gem Mining to Your Party
Make your birthday celebration extra special with a gem mining add-on. Each guest receives their own gem bag to sift, discover, and keep. It’s a hands-on activity and a memorable party all in one.
Gem Mining FAQs
Complete Your Visit
Keep the fun going with more attractions at Lakeview Putt and Play: