Logo for Yogi Bear Campground in Golden Valley, NC.

GEM MINING

The gem mining experience at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Golden Valley is a hands-on adventure that’s perfect for kids and adults alike. At the Golden Valley Mining Co., guests can purchase a mining bag filled with sand and hidden treasures, then sift through it at the water sluice to reveal colorful gemstones, crystals, and even fossils. It’s an activity that blends the excitement of discovery with a touch of learning, as families get to see and identify the different stones they uncover.

Gem mining is available throughout the season and adds a slower-paced, creative option to the park’s mix of attractions. While kids enjoy the thrill of finding sparkling stones, parents love that it provides both fun and a keepsake to take home. It’s a memorable way to round out a day of swimming, hiking, or playing, and many families make it a tradition to stop by the mining sluice each time they visit. Simple, engaging, and rewarding, gem mining adds a charming layer to the Jellystone camping experience.

Kids panning for gems at gem mining at Yogi Bear campground near Morganton, NC.
Kids finding gemstones doing gem mining at Jellystone Park near Hickory, NC.
Kids with Boo Boo from Yogi Bear doing gem mining at campground in NC mountains.
Boy and girl doing gemstone mining at Yogi Bear campground near South Carolina.

SEASON

MARCH 21, 2025 – SEASON BEGINS

NOVEMBER 29, 2025 – SEASON ENDS

GEM MINING HOURS

MON-SUN
9AM - DUSK

PARK ADMISSION

You can purchase passes just for the day to experience all the campground has to offer or you can stay for as long as you want at one of their many accommodations which include RV sites, tent sites, cabins, glamping tents, and more! Passes and reservations can be purchased online or at the location. It is recommended to purchase online prior to visiting to ensure availability.

2025 SEASON
DAY PASSES (4 & UNDER FREE)
CABINS & GLAMPING TENTS
RV & TENT SITES
DIRT BAGS FOR GEM MINING
STANDARD ADMISSION
$45 PER PERSON
$99 - $1000 PER NIGHT
$56 - $228 PER NIGHT
$10 - $30 PER BAG

THINGS TO KNOW

  • Purchase bags of dirt at the Ranger Store at then sift at your convenience at the gem mining sluice.
  • Multiple bags are available for purchase with different sizes and gems available ranging from the $10 – $30 range. 
  • Day Passes are for 11am – 7pm
  • Day Passes are not available holiday weekends, including the Friday or Monday of a holiday weekend, (Memorial Day, Labor Day, and 4th of July). Limited quantity available and a confirmed reservation is required.
  • Outside food is not permitted for Day Passes, but you can bring drinks.
  • Quiet Hours are from 11pm – 8am

DISCOUNTS

  • The campground offers deals periodically throughout the season. Check their website or sign up for their email to stat updated on their changing deals.
  • The campground offers a military discount of 10% off any weekday (Sunday-Thursday) stay with promo code YOGITHANKSYOU. *A valid ID must be presented at check-in to receive the discount. Excludes holidays (Memorial Day, Labor Day, & Columbus Day). May not be combined with other offers.

BOOK YOUR EXPERIENCE

Click the link to visit the official website.

AMENITIES AVAILABLE AT THIS LOCATION

ON-SITE RESTAURANTS & BAR

Jellystone Park offers on-site dining options that include full menu options, grill options, ice cream, desserts, and a bar.

RETAIL STORE

There is a fully stocked camp store at the campground offering drinks, snacks, souvenirs, light groceries, and a full compliment of camping necessities.

DOG WASHING

The campground features a convenient dog washing station.

DOG PARK

A fenced in dog park is available on-site to allow leash free time for your canine.

BATH HOUSES

Their are numerous bath houses around the campground to accommodate everyone and they are open 24/7.

LAUNDRY FACILITIES

Washers and dryers are available at 2 separate Laundry Stations, one located near the Water Zone and one located in the pasture area of the Camp-Resort. Both are open 24 hours a day for your convenience.

PROPANE FILL STATION

We offer a propane fill station located near the Registration Station! Prices vary by tank size.

TRASH PICK UP

Curbside trash pick-up is 8am-dusk, daily! In order to avoid attracting animals, please do not leave trash outside overnight.

PARK RANGERS

You will see plenty of park rangers around the area ready to assist you with any needs you may have.

GOLF CART RENTALS

Golf cars are available for rental in 4 and 6 seater accommodations. Reserve early because they have limited availability.

WI-FI

Wi-Fi is available throughout the campground although the signal strength may vary.

VISIT LOCATION PAGE

Click the link to visit the location page for this activity and learn all about the location.

OTHER ACTIVITIES AT THIS LOCATION

Featured image for waterpark at Jellystone park in Golden Valley, NC.

Waterpark Jellystone Park Golden Valley

The centerpiece is the large splash playground, which features twisting slides, water blasters, air-powered cannons, and climbing structures that keep kids entertained for hours.

Featured image for pickleball at Jellystone Park in Bostic, NC.

Pickleball Jellystone Park Golden Valley

Pickleball at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Golden Valley is a great way to enjoy a mix of exercise, competition, and social fun while surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Outdoor mini golf course at Jellystone Park campground near Morganton, NC.

Mini Golf Jellystone Park Golden Valley

Whether you're celebrating a hole-in-one or simply enjoying casual putting under the trees, mini golf here adds a delightful dose of outdoor leisure to the park’s mix of adventures—making it a memorable part of the Jellystone experience.

Featured image for Gaga ball at Jellystone park in Bostic, NC.

GaGa Ball Jellystone Park Golden Valley

The Gaga Ball court at Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Golden Valley is a lively hub of energy and excitement for kids and families. Gaga Ball is often described as a gentler version of dodgeball.

Kid on jumping pillow in front of playground at Yogi Bear campground near Charlotte, NC.

Playground Jellystone Park Golden Valley

Families visiting Jellystone Park Golden Valley will find the playground nestled among the trees, offering a bright, welcoming area for kids to explore and expend energy.

Featured image for water zip line at Yogi Bear Campground in Bostic, NC.

Zipline Jellystone Park Golden Valley

The water zip line is a standout thrill feature at Jellystone Park Golden Valley that lets guests launch from a raised tower and fly over the lake before plunging down into the cool water

Featured image for kayaking at Yogi Bear campground near Morganton, NC.

Kayaking Jellystone Park Golden Valley

Guests can rent kayaks (as well as canoes, paddleboards, or pedal boats) from the Lakeside Shack—typically at a rate of around $5 per hour—and paddle at their own pace while taking in the views.

Featured image for hayride at Jellystone Park in Bostic, NC.

Hayride Jellystone Park Golden Valley

Guests climb aboard a wagon for a leisurely ride around the campground while singing songs, waving to other campers, and soaking in the fun atmosphere.

ACTIVITY AT OTHER LOCATIONS

Gem mining in Scaly Mountain, NC.

Gem Mining Highlands Outpost NC

Highlands Outpost in Scaly Mountain, NC, offers an exciting gem mining experience, perfect for families and aspiring treasure hunters.