Opal Hill, located in eastern California near the border of Arizona, is known for its beautiful opal eggs, quartz crystals, and wonderful fire agates. Sometimes called Coon Hollow, this site is located deep in the Mule Mountains not far from Palo Verde, CA.
To reach the site from Interstate 10, take Wiley Well Road exit and head south for approx. 17 miles, just past the BLM Coon Hollow Campround. Turn left on the small gravel road (high clearance vehicle recommended) at the Opal Hill Mine sign and drive east for another couple of miles to the mine site, which is located on the right.
Opal Hill has a long known history of quality fire agate production, having produced many wonderful gemstones over the years. The old original Opal Hill mining claim used to offers a pay to mine service during the cooler fall, winter and spring months (December 2015 Note: The mine has a new owner and it is unknown if it is any longer open to the public).
|