About Us

ABOUT US

Outpost Gold & Gem – Helen, Georgia

At Outpost Gold & Gem, we offer more than just a chance to pan for gold or screen for gems—we offer a hands-on adventure rooted in North Georgia’s rich mining history and a multi-generational family legacy.

Our story begins with Del Jackson, a seasoned gold prospector who spent decades mining in Alaska, British Columbia, Central and South America. Drawn by the historic Appalachian gold belt, Del came to Helen, Georgia in the 1970s and, by 1976, founded Nacoochee Sand & Gravel near the famous Dukes Creek, one of the earliest documented gold discovery sites in the United States.

Thanks to the incredible amount of gold, sapphires, and rubies found in the mine, Del made a bold decision in 1981 to open the site to the public. Guests could pan directly in the river, experiencing firsthand the excitement of prospecting. However, rising insurance costs later required us to move the panning operations to a safer, more accessible space—our conveniently covered panning tables, located right next to the shop.

Today, that tradition continues with Del’s son, Chad Jackson, who officially opened a second location in 2015 just inside Helen to meet growing demand. With a background in machining, fabrication, and gem cutting, Chad expanded the business in 2017 to include on-site jewelry repair and custom jewelry services, still offered today at our Helen location by a professional custom jeweler.

Our shops also feature a curated selection of gifts, including authentic Navajo Horsehair Pottery, prehistoric fossils, and unique mineral specimens. The Helen location boasts a larger panning area, an expanded gift shop, and convenient, free parking and admission. Buses and large groups are always welcome.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, rockhound, or just looking for a fun day with the family, Dukes Creek Gold & Ruby Mines and the Outpost Gold & Gem Panning Company offer a chance to step into the shoes of an 1800s prospector and mine for real gold and gemstones you get to keep. We provide everything you need to succeed and enjoy your adventure.

OUR HISTORY

Where America’s First Gold Rush Began

History runs deep at Dukes Creek Gold & Ruby Mines—literally. Long before tourists visited Alpine Helen, this region was the site of one of the earliest gold discoveries in the United States.

In 1540, Spanish explorer Hernando DeSoto traveled through the area, and historical accounts suggest that at least one of his men returned around 1560 to mine for gold in the nearby streams. But it wasn’t until 1828 that gold was officially discovered in Dukes Creek, in what is now White County, Georgia. Though often credited to Benjamin Parks of Lumpkin County, the discovery is more accurately attributed to Frank Logan and his party, igniting what would become America’s First Gold Rush—decades before California.

Just north of our mine, you can visit a Georgia Historical Commission marker (placed in 1962) that commemorates this important discovery. It reads:

“Discovery of Gold”

In 1828, gold was discovered here on Duke’s Creek, White County, by two people. John Witheroods of North Carolina found a 3-ounce nugget, and a Negro servant of Major Frank Logan of Louisville, Georgia, also discovered gold on the creek. Early discoveries came almost simultaneously as prospectors drifted into Northeast Georgia from the North Carolina diggings. One merchant in the Nacoochee Valley purchased and shipped $1 to $1.5 million worth of gold in a thirty-year period. The pits visible along the creek are evidence of recent hydraulic mining.

Today, the path to Dukes Creek winds along the stunning Richard B. Russell Scenic Highway, which connects Brasstown Bald to Alpine Helen. Just a short drive from our mines, you’ll find the Dukes Creek Falls Trail—a moderately easy, 2-mile hike through a forest filled with cascading streams and mountain beauty. The trail descends over 400 feet via a series of switchbacks, eventually leading to the breathtaking, multi-tiered Dukes Creek Falls, a 150-foot waterfall where Davis Creek and Dukes Creek meet. (GPS Coordinates: 34.702063, -83.789413)

At Dukes Creek Gold & Ruby Mines and the Outpost Gold & Gem, we honor this remarkable heritage by giving visitors the opportunity to experience gold panning and gem mining just like the early prospectors. You’ll hunt for treasure, explore authentic pay dirt, and keep the gold and gems you find!

We’re proud to be North Georgia’s premium paydirt mine, located in beautiful Alpine Helen, surrounded by natural wonders, historical landmarks, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you’re visiting for the day or planning a weekend getaway, there’s something here for everyone.

Step into history. Discover treasure. Create memories.

We can’t wait to welcome you!