Enjoy Mining for Your Own Diamonds

If you have ever dreamed of striking it rich mining for diamonds, this should be your vacation destination. While your bank book may not enlarge, you may still experience the thrill of finding your very own diamond. Best of all, it makes for a great family getaway. Herkimer Diamonds are a quartz crystal known throughout the world and found only in certain areas of New York State. The crystals are clear and have a brilliant shine to them. They began their formation millions of years ago and are considered valuable because of their beautiful brilliance. Those visiting the Crystal Grove Diamond Mine and Campground can experience the thrill of digging for these rare Herkimer crystals.

Digging is a great experience for kids and adults of all ages. You need to have no previous mining knowledge to be successful, nor do you need elaborate mining tools. Just show up to the campground with a hammer, shovel, chisel, or even a garden trowel! There are some tools available for rental, but they often rent out quickly. You can either break the rocks in hopes of striking the diamonds, or sift through the dirt in search of your gems. There are no reservations needed to dig. Diggers are encouraged to protect their eyes and safety glasses can be purchased in the mine store.

The park is not only great for mining, it is a great camping destination. It is located at the foot of the Adirondack mountains and the campground is wood and directly adjacent to the mines. Not only will you get to dig, you may get to birdwatch and see beautiful flowers growing.

Campers can opt for tent sites that feature water and electrical hookups, as well as fire rings and picnic tables. There is a dumping station, free showers with hot water, restrooms, ice, firewood, and snacks and gifts are available at the shop. There is also access to a horseshoe pit, a playground, volleyball and basketball courts, and a ping-pong table. This is a full-service camping area, and while rustic, most campers will be comfortable here.

Cabins are also available for rental. Most of them sleep four people and are rented at $60 per night. There is a two night minimum if it is a holiday weekend. You should make reservations in advance. All camping supplies are necessary, excluding the tent. The cabins feature only beds with mattresses and tables.

Once you have finished your diamond hunting expedition, there is plenty to do in Saint Johnsville. Nearby are the Howe Caverns, a thrilling way to cap off or begin a diamond digging trip, the Utica Zoo, the Secret Caverns, Palatine Church, Fort Klock, the General Herkimer Home, the Beaversprite Nature Sanctuary, the National Baseball Hall of Fame, and the Saranac Brewery. Obviously there is something to interest everyone, so even if you are not the diamond digging type, you may be able to make the most of the trip with a side voyage outside of the campground. However, if you have dreamed of digging for diamonds, this is the vacation destination for you.