Rockhounding and mineral collecting

Recreational Geology

We are the Mineral Capital of Canada. Rockhounders and collectors take note: 90% of all types of minerals found on Earth are here, 

along with breathtaking rock formations and underground caves.

Minerals on table Bancroft Gemboree

Hidden Gems in Hastings

 

Our land is known as a region rich with resources. with almost 90% of earth’s minerals located in Bancroft, it’s fondly known as the ‘mineral capital of Canada.’ rockhounding enthusiasts can collect on a field trip, view breathtaking rock formations, explore underground caves, and learn about our extensive mining history.

To view the Bancroft Mineral Museum, click here. 


Check out Ontario's Highlands Blog Post to get you started, click here. 

Rockhound Map

Start Digging

Sign of gemboree event details for web

The 60th Annual Rockhound Gemboree

 

This year the Town of Bancroft is celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Rockhound Gemboree. Join us at Canada's Largest Gem & Mineral show from Thursday, July 31st to Sunday, August 3rd, 2025.


Named one of Ontario's Top 100 Festival and Events, this show brings together people from around the world to showcase exhibits of minerals, crystals, gems and fossils. See demonstrations, workshops and the opportunity to shop for pieces to add to your own collections.
 

Visit the Bancroft Gemboree website for hours, venue locations and more details. 
 

Explore Underground

DISCOVER Hidden Gems

DISCOVER Hidden Gems

DISCOVER Hidden Gems

Hidden Goldmine Bakery
Hidden Goldmine Bakery
  • Limerick
59 Durham St S, Madoc, ON
Miners Restaurant Interior
Miners Restaurant
  • Marmora and Lake
95 Matthew St, Marmora, ON
Two kids looking a gems and minerals on display behind a glass cabinet
Bancroft Mineral Museum
  • Bancroft
8 Hastings Heritage Way, Bancroft, On
Hiking on Trail
Miners' Loop
  • Marmora and Lake
28-54 Water St, Marmora, ON

ROCK Shops

ROCK Shops

ROCK Shops

Sign for Lakeside Gems Store
Lakeside Gems
  • Faraday
29277 Highway 28 South
View of the facade for the Princess Sodalite Mine shop
Princess Sodalite Mine & Rock Shop
  • Bancroft
31241 Highway 28 East

Check out all our Wildly Authentic experiences. 

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