Royal Peacock opal mine

Royal Peacock Opal Mine Campground

Located in the remote and scenic Virgin Valley, Nevada, the Royal Peacock Opal Mine Campground is a unique destination for camping enthusiasts and rockhounds alike. This family-run operation provides visitors with a chance to mine their own opals while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding desert landscapes. The campground offers various accommodations ranging from tent camping to furnished lodgings, ensuring a suitable option for every adventurer.

Accommodations

RV Park: A spacious 18-spot RV park featuring full power, water, and sewer hookups. Rates start at $40/night for 30-amp service and $45/night for 50-amp service.
Tent and Dry Camping: Affordable camping options available at just $10 per person per night, with children 12 and under camping free.
The Cabin and The Cottage: These are fully furnished with bedding, towels, and essential kitchen appliances. Rates start at $85 per night, with an additional cost for extra guests.

Facilities and Amenities

Kitchen Facilities: Both the cabin and cottage feature a kitchenette equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, hot plate, coffee pot, and toaster.
Restroom and Shower Facilities: Conveniently located showers and toilets provide guests with essential amenities.
Laundry Facilities: Access to laundry supplies and facilities for maintaining clean clothes during your stay.
WiFi and Communication: Although remote, the campground offers internet access and a payphone located outside the gift shop for communication needs.
Gift Shop: The onsite gift shop offers mining tools, firewood, cool drinks, snacks, and a variety of opals and jewelry.

Mining Activity

The Royal Peacock Opal Mine is unique in that visitors can dig for opals themselves. The mining options include:

Bank Digging: A more labor-intensive option where guests work ground that has never been sifted.
Tailings Mining: Easy and suitable for families, where you can sift through loose material from previous mining activities. Children are welcome to join in the fun!
All Finds Are Yours: Anything you discover while mining is yours to keep, making it an exciting experience for treasure hunters.

Recreation and Activities

Wildlife Watching: The area is home to many wild burros, mustangs, deer, and other desert creatures, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Hiking and Exploring: Discover nearby canyons, caves, and enjoy scenic views as you hike through the beautiful wilderness.
Fishing: Enjoy fishing in several stocked ponds located within Virgin Valley.
Night Sky Viewing: With minimal light pollution, the campsite offers stunning views of the stars and deep sky objects.
Hot Springs: Unwind at a hot springs pool located just eight miles from the campground.

Essential Tips for Visiting

To ensure a memorable stay, visitors should consider the following:

Bring your own camping supplies such as bedding and cooking essentials.
Tools for mining can be brought from home or purchased at the gift shop.
Keep in mind that hard-toed shoes and safety glasses are recommended while on mine sites.
Wood for campfires can be brought or purchased from the gift shop; ensure to extinguish all fires before leaving.

Final Thoughts

At the Royal Peacock Opal Mine Campground, guests can immerse themselves in a unique blend of outdoor camping and opal mining. Whether you’re a seasoned rockhound or seeking a family-friendly adventure, this campground offers the perfect getaway to connect with nature and discover the beauty of Nevada’s opals.