Welcome To
Big Thunder Gold Mine
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 on-site panning, 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
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
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.