Gila Fluorspar Mine District
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Historic fluorspar mining district on Gila National Forest land, approximately 7 miles north of Gila in the foothills of the Pinos Altos Mountains. Active during WWII, now abandoned with numerous old mines, prospects, and tailings piles open to rockhounding. Access via Turkey Creek Road/FR 155 (high clearance recommended but 4WD not usually necessary). Key mines include the Foster Mine, Clum Mines, and Victoria Mine. Collectors can find purple, green, and blue fluorite crystals in tailings and exposed veins. The area also offers hiking with spectacular views of the Gila Wilderness.
🪨 What You Can Find Here
Fluorite
Colorful halide mineral that often forms cubic crystals. The Illinois-Kentucky fluorite district was once the world's leading producer. Also found in New York and Tennessee.
Also found at:
Fluorspar
Also found at:
- No other locations listed yet
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⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Gila Fluorspar Mine District with the right equipment.
Rock Hammer
The most essential rockhounding tool. Choose a hammer with both a flat striking face and a pointed pick end.
Typical: $25-45
Safety Glasses
Mandatory protective gear. Rock chips fly unpredictably when hammering.
Typical: $10-20
Chisel Set
Cold chisels in 3-4 sizes for precise extraction from matrix rock.
Typical: $15-30
Geologist's Pick
A heavier crack hammer for splitting hard rock. Essential for hard rock mining areas.
Typical: $35-60
Sifting Screen
Stackable mesh screens for sifting gravel and dirt. Essential for gem and fossil hunting.
Typical: $20-40
UV Flashlight
Long-wave UV light for finding fluorescent minerals and Yooperlites.
Typical: $15-35