California’s historic Gold Rush brought many prospectors to Holcomb Valley in the 1800's! Our adventures are perfect for all ages. Everyone can experience a Eureka moment while participating in our Geode breaking or our Gemstone and Fossil panning activities. No "prospector" goes home empty handed and no two bags of mining ore or paydirt are exactly alike. Take home the best souvenir in Big Bear— real gem stones, fossils, or geodes and share the experience of mining at our wooden Water-wheel and sluice. Some minerals are large enough to have cut and faceted into your very own valuable jewelry. Some stones can be polished into a cabochon which is a gemstone that is not faceted, or just leave them in their natural state and enjoy as mother nature intended. Great Family Fun! Our friendly miners will help your family or group get the most out of your Mining Adventure.