Recreational activities using mining gear is exactly what is called leisure mining. It is the type of mining individuals do just for fun, in their leisure time - a family activity that revives the Gold Rush from the 1800's - and shouldn't be confused with the commercial mining done, in general, by corporations and for-profit.

Thermal City Gold Mine

Thermal City Gold Mine is certainly the best known recreational gold mining camp on the East Coast. The western portion of NC is rich in many industrial minerals and diamonds, and you can dig for emerald, citrine, rose quartz, rubies, aventurine, moonstone, smoky quartz, tourmaline and much more.

Thermal City is definitely reachable by car. It is midway between Marion and Rutherford on the county line. For those travelling from the Rutherfordton/Marion exit on I-40 then simply head to the south towards Rutherfordton for around 8 miles. There will be directions to the mine.

It's very reasonable for stay at Thermal City and may fit everyone's budget. You can camp on the riverside for as low as $15.00 per night or obtain a cabin with double beds, a bath and a kitchenette with a micro wave for $50.00.

You can bring your own mining gear or you can buy it from them. They can give you pumps, dredges, gold pans, and other exploration supplies.

The Lucky Strike Recreational Gold and Gem Mine Lucky Strike is an additional recreational facility in North Carolina. It's in Marion County in Vein Mountain. It is open all year long from 8 to 7.

Next to the normal mining and prospecting activities, Lucky Strike supplies the Miner's Diner - a restaurant for those who would prefer to be spending the whole day digging for gold than cooking - and, of course, accommodation at affordable rates.

Cotton Patch Gold Mine & Campground

Cotton Patch is one more well-liked recreational mining site located in New London, NC. They've got excellent training for beginners and they've got excellent prospecting supplies.

The campground is open all year round and prices start at $15.00 per night and steady discount rates are offered for extended stays. You can book an entire month of RV camping for approximately $350. All you must do is generate a call and check the availability.

In New London the camp ground is situated on 4167 Gurley Road. If you wish to use a GPS device you are able to put in the coordinates which are Longitude 80.1874. Latitude 35.4358.