Uncover sparkling gemstones and fossils in a fun, family-friendly treasure hunt at Pigeon Forge Gem Mine. Perfect for groups, it combines outdoor adventure with Southern hospitality and history.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
1–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no special skills required
Wildlife
History
The region has a long history of amateur gem mining dating back to the early 1900s, making it a beloved local pastime.
Conservation
The facility emphasizes sustainable mining practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact and preserving local natural resources.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine
Uncover sparkling gemstones and fossils in a fun, family-friendly treasure hunt at Pigeon Forge Gem Mine. Perfect for groups, it combines outdoor adventure with Southern hospitality and history.
Pigeon Forge Gem Mine in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, offers hands-on gemstone and fossil experiences for visitors of all ages.
The attraction focuses on interactive gem mining buckets, fossil finds, and educational displays that let guests uncover real minerals and prehistoric specimens.
Birthday Parties combine a guided treasure-hunting activity with dedicated party space, keepsakes, and photo opportunities led by experienced hosts.
Permanent Jewelry sessions allow guests to choose chains, add personalized charms, and have a bracelet welded on site with expert assistance for a lasting keepsake.
Groups can explore the gem mine together, then visit the on-site Three Bears General Store stocked with over 100,000 unique items and homemade fudge for a classic Smoky Mountains experience.
Gem Mining packages provide buckets filled with rough material that may contain a variety of gemstones and prehistoric fossils, plus access to a free fossil museum and custom jewelry options.
Staffed hosts provide guidance during each activity to help guests identify finds and learn basic geology.
Visitors receive clear instructions, sorting tools, and support to make the experience accessible to children and adults.
Reservations are available for parties, permanent jewelry appointments, groups, and walk-up gem mining sessions where capacity allows.
Located in the heart of Pigeon Forge, the gem mine complements nearby Smoky Mountains attractions and offers a tangible, educational, souvenir-focused outing for travelers seeking active things to do.
Souvenirs and keepsakes are available on site and at the store also.
Location
Pigeon Forge, TN
Located in the Smoky Mountains area
Experiences
4
Gem mining, parties, jewelry, groups
Free Museum
Fossil Museum
Included with gem mining visits
General Store
100,000+
Three Bears store items and fudge
Book birthday parties, permanent jewelry sessions, group visits, or individual gem mining buckets in Pigeon Forge today.
Wear comfortable clothes and be prepared for dirt
Bring clothes that you don't mind getting dirty since you’ll be digging through gravel beds.
Bring small containers for your finds
Carry along small buckets or jars to transport your gemstones and fossils home.
Stay hydrated
Bring water to stay refreshed during your gem hunting session.
Plan for a visit to the general store afterwards
Make time to browse the unique items and enjoy homemade fudge in the adjacent store.
Old Clothes or Coveralls
Protect yourself from dirt and gravel while digging.
Small Container or Jar
Carry and keep your gemstone finds secure.
Sun Protection
A hat or sunscreen helps protect against sunburns during peak hours.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during your gem mining adventure.