Reed Gold Mine
Approximate — check official site before visiting
Site of the first documented gold find in the US (1799). State historic site with visitor center, restored ore-crushing stamp mill, and gold panning. 100% native dirt from the original mine.
🌐 Visit Official Site →🪨 What You Can Find Here
Gold
Native gold nuggets, flakes, and dust found in streams and ancient riverbeds. Popular states include Alaska, California, Colorado, Arizona, and Georgia for recreational gold panning.
Also found at:
Azurite
Also found at:
- No other locations listed yet
Malachite
Also found at:
- No other locations listed yet
Quartz Crystals
Clear, smoky, and rose quartz crystals are among the most common and rewarding rockhounding finds. Arkansas produces world-class quartz.
Also found at:
Sphalerite
Zinc sulfide mineral, the primary ore of zinc. Found in Missouri, Wisconsin, New York, and Kentucky's Mississippi Valley deposits.
Also found at:
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⛏️ Recommended Gear
Make the most of your visit to Reed Gold Mine 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