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Cost Varies by location
Location Multiple fossicking sites across QLD, NT, NSW, SA
Pet Friendly Yes at Mud Tank NT
Facilities Varies by location
Vehicle Access 4WD required at Mud Tank NT
In Camps App Yes – all locations featured

Are you feeling lucky? Line up your family or friends and head out to one of these “diamond in the rough” camps and have a fossick around. There is even a festival!

This photo of me is from Lightning Ridge – the only gems we found were in shops – haha!

We arrived just in time for the weekly Sunday market – and opals were everywhere!

 I found some vintage glasses for our port, and Heatley was amazed by the mega-brekky burgers. Have you seen them?

Who knew you can find quality petrified wood by the side of the road around Chinchilla? Two properties allow digging – you can camp nearby at newly named Charleys Creek….

Fossick for semi precious gems at this pet friendly 4WD camp on Alcoota Station. What colour Zircons will you unearth?

The buzz of gold rush fever may be behind her, but Rocky River still delivers a campsite rich in history and stories.  Discover it just west of Uralla, NSW…

No bucket list journey is complete without visiting the Opal Capital of the world. There’s plenty to do here and we found out what noodling means!

The return of the fabulous Jewel of the Gemfields Festival brings an exciting line up of market days, entertainment and family events.

Find these sites and more nearby in the CAMPS guide books, CAMPS Pendium boxed set and CAMPS AUSTRALIA WIDE App.

FUNNY PHOTO …

Panther Pub and Tattersalls Hotel, Emmaville, NSW

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my dog to these fossicking campsites?

Mud Tank NT is confirmed as pet friendly. For other locations mentioned, check the Camps App for current pet policies.

What can I fossick for at these different locations?

Charleys Creek near Chinchilla QLD offers petrified wood, Mud Tank NT has semi-precious gems including Zircons, Rocky River NSW is known for its gold rush history, and Coober Pedy SA is the Opal Capital of the world.

Do I need a 4WD vehicle to access these fossicking sites?

Mud Tank NT specifically requires 4WD access. For vehicle requirements at other locations, check the Camps App for current details.

When is the Jewel of the Gemfields Festival held?

The post mentions the return of the festival with market days, entertainment and family events. Check the Camps App for current dates and details.

Can I camp at these fossicking locations?

Yes, Charleys Creek near Chinchilla QLD offers camping nearby, and Mud Tank NT is a campsite on Alcoota Station. For camping details at Rocky River NSW and Coober Pedy SA, see the Camps App.

What is noodling at Coober Pedy?

Noodling is mentioned as something discovered at Coober Pedy. For a full explanation of this opal hunting technique and where to try it, check the Camps App for current details.

Are there facilities at Lightning Ridge for market shopping?

Lightning Ridge hosts a weekly Sunday market where opals and other items are sold. For camping facilities and amenities in the area, check the Camps App for current details.

Do I need a fossicking licence for these locations?

Licensing requirements are not specified in the post. Check the Camps App for current details on permits and regulations for each fossicking location.

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