Visit Reed Gold Mine
Reed Gold Mine is the site of the first documented gold find in the United States. From this discovery, gold mining spread gradually to nearby counties and eventually into other southern states. During its peak years gold mining was second only to farming in the number of North Carolinians it employed. The estimated value of gold recovered reached over one million dollars a year. North Carolina led the nation in gold production until 1848, when it was eclipsed by the great rush to California.
Location and Hours
Reed Gold Mine
9621 Reed Mine Rd.
Midland, N.C. 28107
Hours
Tuesday – Saturday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Closed Sunday, Monday, and designated state holidays (link to state holidays)
Admission is free, Fee for underground guided tours
Gold Panning Fees
Panning is available Tuesday through Saturday only between March and November 30. Tickets are $5.00 per person (sales tax is included).
Panning will not be available during periods of moderate to heavy rain or if thunder or lightning are detected. If thunder is detected, panning will close for 30 minutes. Staff will then reassess conditions. Panning may remain open during periods of light rain, pending staff approval. Panning will close whenever the heat index reaches above 103 degrees for the safety of staff and visitors.
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