8 Places
Gem Mining
Discover gem mining adventures across the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Explore unique locations where you can dig for colorful gems and take home a piece of the mountains.
Sevierville
SkyLand Ranch
Mountaintop views and farm animals
Dandridge
Douglas Lake
35-mile lake with great fishing
Pigeon Forge
Goats on the Roof of the Smoky Mountains
Goats grazing on a scenic rooftop
Pigeon Forge
Little River Gem Mine & Rock Shop
Gemstone panning and mineral shop
Pigeon Forge
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
Mining for gemstones with staff
Wears Valley
Smoky Mo Red Jasper Beer Garden & Gem Mine
Gem mining and beer garden fun
Pigeon Forge
Gem Mining at Goats on the Roof
Unique Gem Mining & Rooftop Goats
Gatlinburg
Gem Mine at Anakeesta
Family Gem Mining Adventure
What to Know
Best Seasons
Open year round and a great all weather stop, since flume mining is quick and mostly covered. Summer and leaf season are busiest, so go early in the day to skip the lines at the bigger attractions.
What to Bring
A little cash for extra buckets, a small towel for muddy hands, and a bag for your finds. Most spots provide the bucket, screen, and flume. Younger kids may want a change of clothes.
Picking the Right Gem for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Little River Gem Mine Rock Shop and Pigeon Forge Gem Mine offer hands-on gem mining experiences that are safe and engaging for children. These locations provide easy access and friendly staff to guide young miners.
For Visitors Interested in Scenic Settings
Skyland Ranch and Douglas Lake provide gem mining experiences set within beautiful natural surroundings. Combine your visit with a trip to Kuwohi for stunning mountain views.
For Those Wanting a Unique Experience
Goats On The Roof Gem Mining and Smoky Mo Red Jasper Beer Garden Gem Mine add a twist to the traditional gem mining activity, blending entertainment and local culture.
For Groups Looking to Explore Multiple Spots
With 8 gem mining locations across the area, including Anakeesta Gem Mine and Goats On The Roof Of The Smoky Mountains, groups can plan a gem mining tour that suits different interests and skill levels.
Tips and Getting There
Insider Tips
- Buy one bucket first to see how your group likes it. You can always grab more, and the richer buckets are worth the upgrade for serious diggers.
- Some shops will identify and even cut or mount your best stones. Ask before you leave if you find something you love.
- Go early on summer mornings. The flumes get crowded with families by midday and the wait can be long at the popular spots.
Getting There and Parking
Gem mining flumes are attached to attractions across Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg, and Sevierville, including several on the Parkway and at the mountain top parks. Most have parking on site or nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gem mining in the Smoky Mountains?
Are gem mining activities suitable for children?
Do I need to bring my own equipment for gem mining?
Can I keep the gems I find?
How long does a typical gem mining session last?
Are there any age restrictions for gem mining?
Is gem mining available year-round?
Vantage Stays · Smoky Mountain Guide
Gem Mining
Explore gem mining in the Smoky Mountains near Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. Find family-friendly mines, scenic locations, and unique.
Scan for live
hours & details
What to Know
Best Seasons
Open year round and a great all weather stop, since flume mining is quick and mostly covered. Summer and leaf season are busiest, so go early in the day to skip the lines at the bigger attractions.
What to Bring
A little cash for extra buckets, a small towel for muddy hands, and a bag for your finds. Most spots provide the bucket, screen, and flume. Younger kids may want a change of clothes.
The Checklist
| Place | Rating | Hours | Phone | Address | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dandridge | |||||
| Douglas Lake | 4.7 ★ | Daylight Hours | 1680 Boat Launch Rd, Sevierville, TN 37876 | ||
| Gatlinburg | |||||
| Gem Mine at Anakeesta | 4.4 ★ | During Anakeesta hours | (865) 325-2400 | 576 Parkway, Gatlinburg, TN 37738 | |
| Pigeon Forge | |||||
| Goats on the Roof of the Smoky Mountains | 4.3 ★ | 9 AM - 11 PM | (865) 430-3880 | 1341 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Little River Gem Mine & Rock Shop | 4.8 ★ | Mon-Sat: 10AM - 5PM | (865) 774-4224 | 3324 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Pigeon Forge Gem Mine | 4.4 ★ | 9 AM - 8 PM | (865) 428-2093 | 2865 Parkway, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Gem Mining at Goats on the Roof | 4.3 ★ | Daily 10am-8pm | (865) 366-4466 | 1341 Wears Valley Rd, Pigeon Forge, TN 37863 | |
| Sevierville | |||||
| SkyLand Ranch | 4.5 ★ | Mon-Sun: 10AM-6PM | (865) 428-7469 | 1639 Parkway, Sevierville, TN 37862 | |
| Wears Valley | |||||
| Smoky Mo Red Jasper Beer Garden & Gem Mine | 4.4 ★ | 11 AM - 7 PM, Closed Wed | (865) 774-2345 | 2135 Wears Valley Rd, Sevierville, TN 37862 | |
Picking the Right One for Your Group
For Families with Young Kids
Little River Gem Mine Rock Shop and Pigeon Forge Gem Mine offer hands-on gem mining experiences that are safe and engaging for children. These locations provide easy access and friendly staff to guide young miners.
For Visitors Interested in Scenic Settings
Skyland Ranch and Douglas Lake provide gem mining experiences set within beautiful natural surroundings. Combine your visit with a trip to Kuwohi for stunning mountain views.
For Those Wanting a Unique Experience
Goats On The Roof Gem Mining and Smoky Mo Red Jasper Beer Garden Gem Mine add a twist to the traditional gem mining activity, blending entertainment and local culture.
For Groups Looking to Explore Multiple Spots
With 8 gem mining locations across the area, including Anakeesta Gem Mine and Goats On The Roof Of The Smoky Mountains, groups can plan a gem mining tour that suits different interests and skill levels.
Insider Tips
- Buy one bucket first to see how your group likes it. You can always grab more, and the richer buckets are worth the upgrade for serious diggers.
- Some shops will identify and even cut or mount your best stones. Ask before you leave if you find something you love.
- Go early on summer mornings. The flumes get crowded with families by midday and the wait can be long at the popular spots.