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Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig

Dig for your own quartz crystals at Arkansas' oldest public dig site. Family fun, rock shop, and free museum in Mount Ida!

4.6

Unearth your own quartz crystals at Avant Mining's Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig in Mount Ida, Arkansas. This family-friendly attraction, located on the oldest public dig site in the state, offers a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of mining while discovering the region's rich geological history. Visit the rock shop, explore the free museum, and try your luck at finding your own crystal treasures.

A brief summary to Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig

  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for digging in dirt and clay. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
  • Tool kits are available for purchase, but you can bring your own digging tools, such as a shovel, pickaxe, and gloves.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as the public dig is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm, weather permitting.
  • Visit the rock shop and museum to learn more about the geology of the area and see examples of the crystals you might find.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Avant Mining Fisher Mountain is located at 11 Logan Gap Rd, Mt Ida, AR 71957. From Mount Ida, head west on US-270 W/Albert Pike Rd. Turn left onto Logan Gap Rd. The destination will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. There is no fee to park.

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Discover more about Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig

Avant Mining Fisher Mountain Rock Shop and Public Dig offers a unique and engaging experience for rockhounds and families alike. Located in Mount Ida, Arkansas, the "Quartz Crystal Capital of the World," this attraction allows visitors to dig for their own quartz crystals on historic Fisher Mountain. The Ocus Stanley Claim, the oldest public dig in Arkansas, has been in operation since 1946. Avant Mining acquired the claim in 2010 and has since become the world's largest quartz crystal mining company. Visitors can purchase permits to dig through the mountain's red clay dirt, searching for points, burrs, and twins. Tool kits are available for purchase, or you can bring your own. Before heading to the dig site, check out the rock shop, which features a full-service espresso bar serving locally roasted coffee. The free museum displays ancient artifacts and specimens from around the world, including a large collection of locally sourced minerals. A highlight is the 249-pound turquoise nugget from Avant Mining's Mona Lisa Mine, the only gem-quality turquoise mine in the eastern United States. Avant Mining is dedicated to environmentally sound and ethically minded crystal mining practices. They also offer private pocket dig excursions for a more exclusive experience.

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