Did you know: Arkansas is one of the best places in the country to mine for crystals? I had no idea until I visited this area, and more specifically, after visiting Avant Mining. There are many dig-your-own crystal mines just outside of Hot Springs, but my group and I visited this one, and we had the best time!
Avant Mining is located in the Ouachita Mountains, an area of the state that was considered a magical location by Native American tribes because of the abundance of beautiful quartz crystals that can be found there. Mt. Ida -- the town where Avant is located -- is considered the quartz capital of the world. Avant Mining offers public quartz crystal digs six days a week (weather permitting), as well as private guided tours that take you deeper into their mines.
We got to dig for crystals in the more "elite" area, where the crystals are huge and abundant. I don't know what the experience is like in the public area, but the land is littered with crystals unlike anything I've ever seen, so I imagine even in the public area, you are sure to find gems. You get to take home the crystals you find, so I came home with lots of beautiful specimens.
All of the tools you need are provided. You are out there in the baking sun, though, and there is no shade, so be sure to plan accordingly. Also, the dirt is a reddish clay-looking type of earth, and it gets on everything! Don't wear your best clothes and shoes if you plan on digging.
Avant Mining also has a huge gift shop full of rocks and gemstones to purchase and peruse. It was like being in a little gallery. They also operate a coffee shop on the premises, with beverages and snacks. read more