The New York Times has called New Jersey one of the world’s richest sources of minerals and fossils. It is one of the best places for collecting in the U.S. outside of the West. We have large quantities of iron, copper, and zinc but even precious stones and metals including rubies and gold have been found here. While it’s unlikely we’ll strike it rich, mineral mining is still a fun, family-friendly activity. You can enjoy this experience at Sterling Hill Mining Museum in Ogdensburg.
Mining at Sterling hill dates all the way back to 1630. By 1897, area mines were purchased by the New Jersey Zinc Company. These mines operated until 1986.
Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
The property opened as a museum in 1990. Visitors can enjoy indoor exhibits along with mine tours that will take you 1,300 feet below ground.
Dmadeo/Wikipedia
The mine is filled with fluorescent minerals which are highlighted by black lights in the Rainbow Tunnel. It’s truly spectacular.
Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
While the museum and tour are terrific, kids can enjoy an interactive learning experience in the warmer months…mining for minerals! This takes place at the Rock Discovery Center from June-September. Kids will enjoy a little lesson and then hunt for 6 different rocks.
Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
Then, there’s the Mine Run Dump. Open year-round, both children (age 7 and up) and adults will enjoy collecting minerals. There are two piles to choose from.
James St. John/Wikipedia The international pile contains diverse minerals from all over the world. The local pile contains hundreds of tons of high-grade zinc ore derived from the mine itself. Many minerals in the local pile are fluorescent and collectors will have access to a shortwave ultraviolet light so they can check for themselves. On select dates, visitors will also have access to the Passaic Pit. You will need to bring sturdy footwear, eye protection, and a strong hammer to utilize this mining area.
Then, there’s sluicing. This activity takes place from April-November.
Vilseskogen/Flickr Visitors can purchase bags of sand that are loaded with gems and minerals, fossils, or both. The sand mixture is then slowly poured into a tray and dipped into a water feature to uncover the treasures inside. This is similar to panning for gold and takes about 10-15 minutes.
The fluorescent minerals are my favorite! Maybe you’ll take a few home after your visit.
James St. John/Wikipedia
The Sterling Hill Mining Museum is truly a Jersey gem! Have you been yet?
Sterling Hill Mining Museum/Facebook
Dmadeo/Wikipedia
James St. John/Wikipedia
The international pile contains diverse minerals from all over the world. The local pile contains hundreds of tons of high-grade zinc ore derived from the mine itself. Many minerals in the local pile are fluorescent and collectors will have access to a shortwave ultraviolet light so they can check for themselves. On select dates, visitors will also have access to the Passaic Pit. You will need to bring sturdy footwear, eye protection, and a strong hammer to utilize this mining area.
Vilseskogen/Flickr
Visitors can purchase bags of sand that are loaded with gems and minerals, fossils, or both. The sand mixture is then slowly poured into a tray and dipped into a water feature to uncover the treasures inside. This is similar to panning for gold and takes about 10-15 minutes.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Sterling Hill Mining Museum, 30 Plant St, Ogdensburg, NJ 07439, USA
