Gemstone Fossicking at Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Good basic mobility needed, no technical skills required
Overview
Uncover rare gemstones like Thundereggs and Rainforest Jasper at Mount Hay Gemstone Tourist Park in Queensland. Perfect for families and geologists seeking a hands-on adventure in nature, this site offers unforgettable finds and scenic surroundings.
Fossicking
All ages welcome • Approx 2 hours • Fossick for Thundereggs and Rainforest Jasper pieces!
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About This Adventure
Experience the thrill of fossicking for Thundereggs and Rainforest Jasper at a family-friendly site. With a pick and bucket in hand, uncover unique stones to keep, and enjoy complimentary cutting for a few. This hands-on adventure promises fun for all ages, making it a memorable day out in nature.
Visitors can fossick through piles of Thunderegg and Rainforest Jasper bearing material which is excavated from the nearby mine site, and transported to a safe area suitable for all ages
Duration
30 minutes - 2 hours
About
Visitors are given a pick and bucket to fossick and shown what to look for. Any stones collected can be kept, and upon completion of their search, each person can have a couple of stones cut for free. Extra cutting is available at extra cost.
More Info
- Closed in footwear is required
- Pets welcome
- Bring your own lunch.
- Cold drinks & ice creams available in Gift Shop
Adventure Tips
Start with a fresh pick
Use a sturdy pick and be gentle to avoid damaging delicate stones.
Wear sun protection
Apply sunscreen and wear a hat as you'll be outdoors most of the day.
Bring extra buckets
Save time and maximize your finds by bringing additional buckets or bags.
Check the weather forecast
Plan your visit on clear days to enjoy the outdoor activity comfortably.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Australian kingsnake
- Eastern Grey Kangaroo
History
Fossicking at Mount Hay has a history dating back to early settlers who mined gemstones for local markets.
Conservation
The site encourages responsible fossicking practices to preserve the natural deposits and surrounding environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Toowoomba
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Hat
Provides sun protection during outdoor fossicking.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific
Gloves
Helps protect hands during manual digging.
Profit-Size Bucket
Necessary for collecting your gemstones.
Kneeling Pad
Provides comfort while working on the ground.