Kids and families can uncover real crystals buried in volcanic sand at Dig IT’s Crystal Panning in Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain. This fun, educational hands-on activity sparks curiosity and introduces young adventurers to the geology of Queensland’s volcanic landscapes.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Flexible (Anytime 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM)
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, especially children and families.
Wildlife
History
Tamborine Mountain’s volcanic origins date back millions of years, contributing to its rich mineral deposits and lush subtropical forests.
Conservation
Thunderbird Park practices minimal-impact management to preserve local flora and fauna, encouraging responsible visitor behavior during all activities.
Dig IT
Kids and families can uncover real crystals buried in volcanic sand at Dig IT’s Crystal Panning in Thunderbird Park, Tamborine Mountain. This fun, educational hands-on activity sparks curiosity and introduces young adventurers to the geology of Queensland’s volcanic landscapes.
Dig IT is a family-focused outdoor activity operator based on Tamborine Mountain, Queensland, offering hands-on mining and construction-themed experiences for children and families. The business runs three main activities: Crystal Panning at Thunderbird Park where children sift volcanic sand to uncover real crystals; the Fossicking Pass allowing guests to search for Thundereggs at the world's largest Thunderegg Mine with a Souvenir Miner's Permit and provided tools; and the Dig IT mini excavator attraction where kids operate real mini excavators in a construction-style play area. All experiences are designed for family groups and school-aged children, with safety equipment supplied and supervision required for certain activities. The Crystal Panning session combines playful discovery with an introduction to basic geology, while the Fossicking Pass emphasizes guided collection and responsible fossicking practices. The Dig IT excavator area offers an interactive construction play environment suitable for young explorers to learn motor skills and cooperative play.
Activities take place in a scenic Tamborine Mountain setting and operate with clear safety protocols; supervision and safety gear are required when appropriate, promoting a secure environment for families. Tickets and session information are available through local booking channels and onsite at Thunderbird Park and associated attractions. Dig IT's focus on hands-on learning, tangible take-home finds, and family-friendly design make it a reliable choice for parents seeking engaging outdoor activities that combine play, education, and memorable discoveries. Advance booking is recommended during peak holiday periods for online availability.
Location
Tamborine Mountain, QLD
Located on Tamborine Mountain in Queensland.
Experiences
3 experiences
Crystal Panning, Fossicking Pass, Dig IT
Safety & Permits
Gear & permits provided
Supervision and safety gear required where appropriate.
Age Policy
No age restrictions
Family-friendly and suitable for varied ages.
Secure sessions for crystal panning, Thunderegg fossicking, or mini excavator play — safe, supervised activities with tools and permits provided when required.
Bring a Small Container
Carry a container to safely store your crystals once discovered during panning.
Arrive Early for Best Selection
Crystal panning bags are limited each day, so early arrival ensures the best experience.
Dress for Outdoor Conditions
Wear sun protection and sturdy shoes since the activity takes place outdoors in volcanic sand pits.
Supervise Young Children
Though safe, adult supervision ensures kids engage properly with materials and environment.
Sunhat
Protects against strong Queensland sun while outdoors at the park.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your outdoor activity.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Protect feet from volcanic sand and rough surfaces.
Small Container or Bag
Useful to carry and protect your crystal treasures.