Experience the Black Hills Gold Rush legend ...
... that is Big Thunder Gold Mine in Keystone, South Dakota! Nowhere else will you find such a great variety of family-friendly activities in the Black Hills. From touring our historic gold mine with our trained tour guides to trying your luck in our gold panning sluices on-site we’ve got something for everyone. Looking to put your luck to the test? Join our team in the Black Hills wilderness, panning by historic Battle Creek like the miners once did on a Claim Panning Adventure. No matter your appetite for adventure, Big Thunder Gold Mine is a top Black Hills Attraction and the place to be on your next Black Hills vacation.
Distinguished as a South Dakota Great Place to visit and recipient of the esteemed George S. Mickelson Award for excellence in customer service, our affordable activities and dining offer visitors of all ages the opportunity to experience Black Hills history like never before.
Testimonials
Happy Customers
“ Our family had a wonderful time on the half day (plus some exploring!) tour, ... (they) are just about 6 and 8 years old and our guide was so thoughtful and patient with them. ”
“ Our time at Big Thunder Gold Mine was quite a treat! What an interesting lifestyle these Gold Miners lived. There’s no better way to learn about their history and way of life than to actually put on a hard hat and walk through the mine! ”
“ This place shows you how to prospect for gold sediments in the past gold rich area. You are allowed to keep whatever specs of gold you find, and if you look hard enough you will find quite a bit. ”
“ Such a great experience. Our tour guide was amazing and very knowledgeable about the entire mining process and that specific mines history. There is also pan mining for gold or gems and a claim mine for a full day of mining. ”
“ Well, 5 years after our first claim panning experience, we returned! How lucky we were to have Trent as our guide AGAIN! I can’t say enough how enjoyable, authentic, and worthwhile this is. ”
A History Lesson Over 130 Years in the Making
Discovered by two German immigrant miners in 1892, Big Thunder Gold Mine is an ode to the rich mining history of the beautiful Black Hills region. Still standing in near perfect condition today, Big Thunder Gold Mine offers visitors of all ages and abilities an opportunity to explore our mine alongside trained tour guides who are well-versed on the unique history of the mine, the Black Hills Gold Rush, and so much more. As the safest and most maintained mine in the Keystone, SD mining district, Big Thunder Gold Mine still contains many indigenous rocks, structures, and minerals today.
Our Story
Big Thunder Gold Mine has served as a mecca for fun, adventure, and education for countless visitors over the last several decades, but has evolved to the mega attraction it is today since the McLain family purchased the Mine back in 1993. Today, Big Thunder Gold Mine is a must-see attraction on any vacation to the Black Hills thanks to our superb customer service, affordable value, and commitment to offering an authentic step back in time to the days of the Black Hills Gold Rush.