Find Your Own Treasures
Crystal Panning at Thunderbird Park is a magical adventure perfect for little ones! This hands-on activity lets kids uncover real, sparkling treasures as they sift through panning trays filled with natural volcanic “mine” sand. Buried within are beautiful crystals just waiting to be discovered and collected. It’s a fun, educational experience that introduces children to geology and the excitement of fossicking in a safe, kid-friendly environment.
With each scoop and swirl, young explorers reveal colourful gems like amethyst, quartz, and agate – and they get to take their treasures home! Set within the lush rainforest surrounds of Mount Tamborine, it’s a delightful activity that sparks curiosity and creativity. Crystal Panning is ideal for younger children, offering plenty of excitement without needing height or age restrictions, making it a must-do for families visiting Thunderbird Park in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Got little adventurers in tow? This hidden gem is a sparkling hit with kids of all ages!
Monday – Sunday
CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day and Anzac Day
“A great place to visit with kids. Our boys thoroughly enjoyed the gem panning and thunder egg fossicking – something very different for them to try. Staff were happy to help and knowledgeable. A great famimy morning out .” Tracy Morgan | Google
“Took my little one to the crystal panning activity. Service was great . It was $15 for a bag of sand mixed with so many crystals. The panning piece was so easy and my little one had a blast ! It’s a fun short activity to do after the bird feeding at 2:30pm.” Tommy | Google
Celebrate with an Adventure Party!
Make your next birthday unforgettable with an adventure-packed celebration! Book your activity experience and pair it with a reserved party table at The Edge, overlooking the beautiful Cedar Creek.
Choose your adventure, then relax and refuel – order delicious food from The Terrace Café, bring your own birthday cake, and decorate your table with your favourite party theme.
Party table bookings are for 2 hours and perfect for adventurers of all ages!
Crystal Panning is the ultimate treasure-hunting adventure for little explorers! Set in the heart of the lush Mount Tamborine rainforest, this hands-on experience lets kids (and kids at heart) discover real crystals like amethyst and quartz buried in volcanic “mine” sand.
It’s the perfect mix of fun and learning, with plenty of sparkle to take home. A magical, mess-free activity that makes a brilliant gift or family day out – no height limits, just big smiles!
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We acknowledge and pay respect to the land and the traditional families of the Yugambeh region of South East Queensland and their Elders past present and emerging. The Yugambeh region includes families that identify as Kombumerri, Mununjali, Wangerriburra and others.