Twin Creek Crystal Mine is one of the most popular mining locations in Montgomery County. This large mine is actively excavating and extracting crystals on an almost daily schedule. Visitors can choose from different options to dig their own crystals at this open pit mine. 

There are large areas of tailings material that are accessible for a fee of $25 per day. Crystals are plentiful and easily recovered by digging through the loose dirt. Tools needed include a handheld shovel or rake, small spade, pickaxe and a container to put your crystals in as well as gloves. In this large public tailings section of the mine, if conditions permit there is generally access to some smaller rock walls for finding your own small crystal vein which can potentially lead to extracting some crystals straight out of the pocket.

Twin Creek Mine also offers private pocket digs that start at $300 and pays for admittance for two people for the day (Additional people in the group will be charged $25 each). There are several other tiers of pocket digs at $500, $750, $1000 and up. The mine owner Bob Fecho will prepare a zone of the mine according to the budget that has been established. You will have private access to this area for the whole day and you can take out as much crystals, rocks and dirt as you like at no additional cost. Bobby is a wonderful mine owner and will generally check on you a couple times throughout the day and may be able to give some tips for a better digging experience. Each pocket is always worth it but as to be expected with mining in a natural location, some spots turn out better and more productive than others but you will always get your money's worth. Reservations are required for any private pocket digs and need to be made in advance by calling the mine.

For digging a pocket you need to come prepared. Bring heavy-duty equipment such as a 5-pound sledgehammer, chisels, a crowbar or digging bar, screwdrivers or deer antlers, plenty of newspaper, multiple pairs of gloves, and several buckets for your finds. Hard-rock mining requires intense physical labor and pocket digs are not recommended for small children or elderly folks.

Besides the public tailings area and the private pocket digs, you can also experience a dig in the commercial section of the mine priced at $100 per person. This grants you access to very fresh tailings of better quality in general. Hard-rock mining is not included in this option.

Access to the mine is via an unpaved National Forest access road. Look for the signs to turn onto the dirt road that leads you to the actual mine. Road conditions are good to allow access for most vehicles. If there has been ample amounts of rain or inclement weather, some spots in the road could be more challenging to navigate, but generally these roads are maintained regularly and easily passable.

This mine is a must-visit spot during your rockhounding journey in Arkansas.