Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground

campgrounds near herkimer ny

For New Yorkers seeking a truly unique outdoor adventure, something beyond the typical hiking trail or lakeside retreat, the Herkimer region of the state offers a hidden gem – literally! Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground in Middleville, NY, has long been a beloved destination where visitors can combine the joys of camping with the thrill of discovering genuine Herkimer Diamonds, naturally faceted quartz crystals prized for their clarity and brilliance. This destination provides an experience that appeals to both seasoned rockhounds and families looking for an unforgettable activity.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground offers a distinctive blend of outdoor recreation and a hands-on geological adventure. It's a place where you can pitch a tent, park an RV, or even rent a cozy lean-to, all while being just steps away from areas where you can dig for these unique crystals. Past visitors have raved about their experiences, noting that they "Had a fantastic time!" and "Found lots of beautiful clear Herkimer Diamonds, some just laying on the ground waiting to be picked up." The campground itself is appreciated for its varied camping options, with reviewers highlighting "Three levels of Camping. The middle and top have the best view of the stars at night." The facility also provides essential comforts like "Good, hot showers." However, it is crucial to note that as of recent updates, the mining operations at Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground, and indeed the entire physical location including the campground and gift shop, are currently closed to the public due to ongoing litigation among the landowners. While this means the full experience of active mining and camping is paused, the legacy and the potential for future reopening remain, and the allure of Herkimer Diamonds continues to draw interest. For New York locals who cherish unique outdoor experiences and the excitement of discovery, Ace of Diamonds has historically been a standout destination, offering an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and geological treasure hunting.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground is uniquely situated at 84 Herkimer St, Middleville, NY 13406, USA. This location places it in the heart of Herkimer County, a region of Central New York renowned worldwide for its distinctive quartz crystals known as Herkimer Diamonds. Middleville itself is a small, charming hamlet, offering a tranquil setting away from the hustle and bustle, yet still accessible to various points of interest in the Mohawk Valley.

The accessibility of the campground is generally good for New York residents. It's typically reached via New York State Route 28, a scenic route that connects to major highways like the New York State Thruway (I-90), making it a convenient drive from Albany, Syracuse, Utica, and other parts of the state. While the campground offers a feeling of being immersed in nature, it's not overly isolated.

Beyond the immediate mining and camping experience, the location provides opportunities to explore the broader Herkimer County area. This includes other regional attractions, natural landscapes, and small-town charm. However, guests should be aware of potential limitations with cell service, as one reviewer noted: "Cell service is not so good on the main level even though you can see a tower at the top of the hill. Upper levels probably have better service." This could be a factor for those who need constant connectivity. The remote, natural setting contributes to the dark skies, ideal for stargazing on the upper camping levels, as highlighted by a visitor: "The middle and top have the best view of the stars at night, as the security floodlight drowns most of them out on the main level." Overall, the address offers a prime spot for a true Central New York adventure, combining the thrill of geological exploration with the peace of a natural campground.

Historically, Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground offered a blend of camping amenities and unique mining-related services to its visitors. While the facility is currently closed due to litigation, these are the services that have defined the experience:

• Various Camping Site Options: The campground historically offered multiple tiers of camping, including basic tent sites, RV sites (some with hookups like 50 amp electric, water, and sewer), and more unique options like lean-tos. One reviewer specifically mentioned the lean-to rental: "We rented the lean-to on the main level and it was so worth it! Not just a water supply, but also a sink! Great view of the mine and sluice. Felt like I owned the place!"

• Restroom and Shower Facilities: The presence of "Good, hot showers" was a highlight for campers, indicating well-maintained facilities essential for a comfortable camping experience.

• Herkimer Diamond Mining Access: The core attraction, allowing visitors to dig for genuine Herkimer Diamonds. This involved access to designated mining areas and tailings piles. The fee for mining typically included the ability to take home all found diamonds.

• Tool Rental and Sales: Visitors could rent or purchase mining tools (hammers, chisels, buckets, sluice kits, etc.) on-site, making the experience accessible even for those without their own equipment. Pricing for tool rental was considered "Fair prices."

• Sluice Area: A sluice (water trough) was available for sifting through material to find crystals, which is a popular activity, especially for families.

• Gift Shop: The gift shop historically sold various items, including Herkimer Diamonds, other minerals, souvenirs, and possibly some basic camping supplies or snacks.

• Picnic Area: A designated picnic area was available for guests to enjoy meals and breaks.

The experience was designed to be family-friendly and provide everything needed for a successful diamond-hunting and camping trip.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground, when operational, boasted several distinctive features and highlights that made it a memorable destination for visitors in New York.

• Genuine Herkimer Diamond Discovery: The primary highlight was the unique opportunity for visitors to dig for and find authentic Herkimer Diamonds. Unlike other "gem mining" experiences, these are naturally formed, doubly terminated quartz crystals, offering a real treasure hunt. Reviewers celebrated finding "lots of beautiful clear Herkimer Diamonds."

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The campground was known for attracting families, creating a lively and engaging environment. Hearing "the little ones get so excited when they find their first Diamond!" was a common and heartwarming experience.

• Diverse Camping Levels with Views: The campground featured "Three levels of Camping." The upper levels provided "the best view of the stars at night," offering a beautiful celestial display away from light pollution. Even the main level offered a "Great view of the mine and sluice."

• Comfortable Lean-To Rentals: The availability of lean-tos, particularly one with "not just a water supply, but also a sink," provided a comfortable and convenient camping option for those not wanting to pitch a tent, making it feel like "I owned the place!" for one happy guest.

• Affordable and Rewarding Experience: When the mine was actively replenishing its material, the experience was described as "fun, affordable, unique, and successful," with guests able to take home their finds at no extra cost beyond the admission fee.

• Hot Showers: A simple yet highly appreciated amenity for campers, ensuring comfort after a day of digging.

• Community Interaction: The chance to "meet the other campers, as well as seeing families come and go with their kids all day" fostered a friendly and social environment.

• Educational Aspect: Visitors, especially children, inadvertently learned about geology and mineral formation through the hands-on process of searching for crystals.

These features combined to create a unique and highly engaging outdoor and educational adventure that appealed to a wide range of visitors.

Please note: As of recent updates, Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground, including its mine, campground, and gift shop, is currently closed to the public due to ongoing litigation among the landowners. This means that regular operations, including any promotions or special offers for camping or mining, are suspended.

Historically, when the campground and mine were fully operational, promotions might have included:

• Seasonal Discounts: Off-peak season rates for camping or mining admission.

• Group Rates: Special pricing for large groups or school trips interested in mining.

• Package Deals: Combinations of camping and mining access at a reduced rate.

• Loyalty Programs: Possible incentives for returning visitors.

However, as the facility is currently closed, these are not active. The owners have expressed hope for a future reopening once the legal issues are resolved. They have also established a GoFundMe to help navigate the legal "minefield." While the physical location is closed, their online shop might remain open for purchasing Herkimer Diamonds and related items.

For the most current information regarding the operational status of Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground and any future reopening plans or potential offers, it is highly recommended to:

• Visit their official website (herkimerdiamonds.com).

• Check their social media pages (e.g., Facebook) for updates.

Directly contacting them via phone might also provide insight, though their ability to offer services is currently limited.

For inquiries regarding Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground, especially concerning future operations or any administrative matters during its current closure, please use the following contact information:

Address: 84 Herkimer St, Middleville, NY 13406, USA

Phone: (315) 891-3855

Mobile Phone: +1 315-891-3855

While the physical location is currently closed due to ongoing litigation, these contact numbers remain the primary way to reach the business. They can provide updates on the status of the mine and campground, information regarding their online shop, or any news about potential future reopening. It is advisable to call ahead or check their official website and social media for the most current operational status before planning a visit.

For locals in New York, Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground, historically, offered a uniquely captivating and accessible outdoor experience right in their backyard. The opportunity to actively participate in finding genuine Herkimer Diamonds provides an educational and thrilling adventure unlike many other recreational activities in the state. This hands-on discovery process, particularly engaging for families and children, fosters a deep connection to New York’s geological heritage and creates truly unforgettable memories. The distinct camping levels, offering everything from basic tent sites to amenity-rich lean-tos and RV spots, catered to a variety of preferences, ensuring that anyone could enjoy the natural beauty of the Herkimer region.

Beyond the thrill of the dig, the campground cultivated a friendly, communal atmosphere where "it was really cool to meet the other campers." This social aspect enhanced the overall experience, fostering a sense of shared adventure and camaraderie among visitors. While the current closure due to litigation is a temporary setback, the inherent value of Ace of Diamonds for New Yorkers lies in its potential to once again offer an affordable, family-friendly, and profoundly rewarding escape into nature combined with the excitement of finding a natural treasure. For those eager to support local businesses and engage in unique geological exploration, keeping an eye on the future reopening of Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground remains a worthwhile endeavor.

Ace of Diamonds Mine & Campground

84 Herkimer St, Middleville, NY 13406, USA