Australia Fossicking Explorer

Fossicking in New South Wales

New South Wales combines gemstone country in New England, council-mapped fossicking areas around Inverell and Uralla, public sites around Oberon and managed opal-field visitor experiences. The key is separating a mineral-rich region from a place where collecting is actually authorised.

32mapped places reviewed

25verified / conditional / permission

32primary-source links

6research-only planning records

A pin is not a legal boundary. Use the official boundary or tenure link before collecting. Research-only records are deliberately non-navigable, and closed areas are retained on the map to prevent accidental access. The ACT has no collecting pin by design because current ACT Government guidance says a fossicking licence cannot be obtained.

Before you collect

New South Wales access rule

Fossicking is lawful in NSW, but access depends on the land manager. A State Forest fossicking authorisation is required except where a current designated set-aside says otherwise. MinView should be checked for State Forest fossicking zones and exclusions.

Common materials: Sapphire, zircon, quartz, garnet, diamond, gold and opal

Licence / permitNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Protected landProtected areas and reserves are not blanket fossicking ground; use only sites where the responsible manager or policy permits it.

MethodsHand-operated tools such as pans, sieves, small shovels, pickaxes and metal detectors; power-operated equipment is prohibited.

Official rules Official map / areas Licence / permit

New South Wales field map

Fossicking Map Explorer

Filter by state, material, precision, access status and trip radius. Each place includes a decision-ready field profile, evidence links and navigation only where the destination is defensible.

32 map records 1 jurisdiction 25 collecting candidates 15 navigable

Map ≠ collecting permission. Verified means current evidence supports the modeled activity; Conditional means resolve a stated condition first; Research is context only; Closed/prohibited means do not collect. Navigation never overrides tenure, claims, ownership, closures, permits or posted rules.

Showing the full reviewed dataset.

New South WalesPins, clusters and state groups are clickable · drag, zoom or change map layers

32 resultsDistance filter inactive

Abercrombie Karst Conservation Reserve — Grove Creek fossicking zone

Central Tablelands · NSW

Closed / prohibitedGoldDo not collect

GoldMineral specimens

The Grove Creek part is normally one of the limited NPWS fossicking-consent areas, but the entire Abercrombie Karst Conservation Reserve is currently closed to the public through late 2026.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateReserve reference — CURRENTLY CLOSEDManagerNSW National Parks and Wildlife ServiceEvidenceHigh · Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessClosed / prohibited

Licence / permitNo access while the park closure applies

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryReserve reference — CURRENTLY CLOSED

Land / tenureNSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold, Mineral specimens

MethodsHand-operated fossicking methods only unless the controlling land manager states otherwise.

Season / conditionsCheck current park/forest alerts, fire conditions and road access before travel.

HazardsRemote travel, water conditions, old workings, weather and temporary land-manager closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW National Parks — Abercrombie Karst Conservation Reserve

Primary source

Billabong Blue Sapphire Fossicking Park

Kings Plains / Inverell · NSW

Permission / managed accessSapphirePermission needed

Sapphire

Tourism Inverell lists Billabong Blue as a private creek-fossicking park. A fee applies, bookings are essential, gates are locked and a key is required; fossicking is weather permitting.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped accessManagerBillabong Blue private operatorEvidenceHigh · Local government tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitPrivate-site booking/fee required; NSW fossicking rules also apply.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureBillabong Blue private operator

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire

MethodsCreek fossicking with own equipment under operator conditions; use only legal hand-operated methods.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, heat, storms, fire danger, rough ground and changing local access conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Bingara fossicking planning area

New England · NSW

Research onlyGoldResearch only

DiamondSapphireTourmalineGoldQuartz

Official NSW tourism guidance identifies Bingara as part of Fossickers Way and recommends obtaining a current fossicking map from the visitor information centre.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitDepends on the specific site

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsDiamond, Sapphire, Tourmaline, Gold, Quartz

MethodsRegional fossicking planning

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Blatherarm Creek — Torrington State Conservation Area

New England / Torrington · NSW

Verified areaOther gemstonesBoundary + rules check

TopazBerylQuartz

NSW National Parks explicitly promotes fossicking in the creek at Blatherarm campground within Torrington State Conservation Area.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOfficial NPWS campground reference — use the named campground destination; fossick only where NPWS permitsManagerNSW National Parks and Wildlife ServiceEvidenceHigh · Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo NSW fossicking licence; comply with NPWS consent conditions and NSW fossicking rules

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial NPWS campground reference — use the named campground destination; fossick only where NPWS permits

Land / tenureNSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsTopaz, Beryl, Quartz

MethodsHand-operated fossicking methods only unless the controlling land manager states otherwise.

Season / conditionsCheck current park/forest alerts, fire conditions and road access before travel.

HazardsRemote travel, water conditions, old workings, weather and temporary land-manager closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW National Parks — Blatherarm Campground and Picnic Area

Primary source

Bukkulla / Pindaroi Road Sapphire Fossicking Area

Bukkulla / New England · NSW

Verified areaSapphireBoundary + rules check

Sapphire

Tourism Inverell describes the Pindaroi Road site at Bukkulla as a free designated sapphire fossicking area open to the public.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped accessManagerSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signageEvidenceHigh · Local government tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; free designated site, subject to current access conditions.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signage

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire

MethodsHand digging, washing and sieving where current site conditions allow; keep disturbance small and backfill.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, heat, storms, fire danger, rough ground and changing local access conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Bullock Mountain Homestead — guest fossicking

Glen Innes Highlands / New England · NSW

Permission / managed accessSapphirePermission needed

SapphireZircon

Glen Innes Highlands currently lists Bullock Mountain Homestead as a fossicking location available only to people staying at the venue. The property also advertises a fossicking park and sapphire-bearing Reddestone Creek.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateManaged-property orientation marker — Directions use the named street addressManagerBullock Mountain HomesteadEvidenceHigh for managed-site access · Council tourism / managed visitor site

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitPrior booking/guest access required; comply with current NSW fossicking rules

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryManaged-property orientation marker — Directions use the named street address

Land / tenureBullock Mountain Homestead

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire, Zircon

MethodsHand fossicking / sieving / creek fossicking as authorised by the operator.

Season / conditionsCheck bookings, road/weather conditions, bushfire alerts and creek levels before travel.

HazardsUnsealed roads, creek/river conditions, bushfire weather and private-property boundaries.

EvidenceGlen Innes Highlands — current fossicking guide / Bullock Mountain Homestead

Primary source

Campbell’s River Bridge Reserve

Oberon district · NSW

ConditionalGoldResolve conditions

SapphireZirconGold

Named by NSW Government tourism guidance as a designated fossicking spot in the Oberon district. Confirm the current reserve boundary, waterway conditions and land-manager requirements before collecting.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessConditional

Licence / permitDesignated public-area rules; confirm current conditions

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Zircon, Gold

MethodsPanning / sieving / hand fossicking

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Fossickers Tourist Park — Peel River access

Nundle / New England · NSW

Permission / managed accessGoldPermission needed

GoldSapphireGemstones

Fossickers Tourist Park states that its sites have access to the Peel River for swimming and fossicking. Treat this as managed/private access through the park, not permission for unrelated reaches of the Peel River or neighbouring land.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOperator-published GPS reference for the tourist park; collecting access remains subject to park and NSW rulesManagerFossickers Tourist Park / relevant NSW waterway or land managerEvidenceHigh for park access; conditional for wider river permissions · Managed site operator

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitPark access/permission plus any current NSW land/water consent requirements

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOperator-published GPS reference for the tourist park; collecting access remains subject to park and NSW rules

Land / tenureFossickers Tourist Park / relevant NSW waterway or land manager

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsGold, Sapphire, Gemstones

MethodsGold pan and hand fossicking; no prohibited powered mining equipment

Season / conditionsCheck river levels, fire danger and local conditions; colder New England weather can affect trips.

HazardsRiver conditions, slippery banks, old mining country and changing land/water access conditions.

EvidenceFossickers Tourist Park Nundle — current site information

Primary source

Fossicking Park at Fossicker Caravan Park

Glen Innes / New England · NSW

Permission / managed accessSapphirePermission needed

SapphireGemstones

Visit NSW lists an on-site Fossicking Park at Fossicker Caravan Park where visitors purchase gemstone wash and use supplied fossicking equipment. This is a managed visitor experience, not public creek access.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinatePublished visitor-site address referenceManagerFossicker Caravan Park / managed Fossicking ParkEvidenceHigh for managed-site access · NSW Government tourism / managed visitor site

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitManaged-site purchase/conditions apply; comply with NSW fossicking rules

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryPublished visitor-site address reference

Land / tenureFossicker Caravan Park / managed Fossicking Park

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire, Gemstones

MethodsSieving/washing supplied gemstone wash with site equipment.

Season / conditionsCheck opening/visitor conditions before travel.

HazardsManaged-site conditions, sun exposure and wet/slippery wash area.

EvidenceVisit NSW — Fossicking Park

Primary source

Glen Innes gemstone country — planning area

New England · NSW

Research onlySapphireResearch only

SapphireQuartzGarnetCitrine

Official NSW tourism guidance identifies Glen Innes and Inverell as gemstone country and recommends obtaining current fossicking maps from visitor information centres. This regional marker is for trip planning, not automatic collecting access.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitDepends on the specific site and land manager

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Quartz, Garnet, Citrine

MethodsRegional fossicking planning

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Grabben Gullen Creek fossicking area

Upper Lachlan / Southern Tablelands · NSW

Verified areaSapphireBoundary + rules check

SapphireSemi-precious gemstones

NSW Government visitor guidance identifies Grabben Gullen Creek as a free sapphire-fossicking location. General NSW fossicking laws still apply.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOfficial visitor-location reference — use local signs and land boundariesManagerLocal/Crown land context — verify on arrivalEvidenceHigh · Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo NSW fossicking licence; comply with NSW fossicking rules and land-access requirements

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial visitor-location reference — use local signs and land boundaries

Land / tenureLocal/Crown land context — verify on arrival

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Semi-precious gemstones

MethodsHand-operated fossicking methods only unless the controlling land manager states otherwise.

Season / conditionsCheck current park/forest alerts, fire conditions and road access before travel.

HazardsRemote travel, water conditions, old workings, weather and temporary land-manager closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government — Sapphire fossicking at Grabben Gullen

Primary source

Inverell gemstone country — planning area

New England · NSW

Research onlySapphireResearch only

SapphireEmeraldQuartzGarnet

Regional planning marker only. Tourism Inverell publishes specific fossicking areas in the district; use those individual records and official council map points rather than navigating to this regional marker.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Local government tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitDepends on the specific site and land manager

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Emerald, Quartz, Garnet

MethodsRegional fossicking planning

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell — Fossicking

Primary source

Lightning Ridge opal fossicking — visitor activities

Outback NSW · NSW

Permission / managed accessOpalPermission needed

Black opalOpal

Official NSW tourism guidance promotes fossicking through visitor attractions and guided experiences at Lightning Ridge. This does not imply unrestricted access to opal claims or mining ground.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant tour operator / claim or land holderEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitUse the relevant tour/site permission; mining/prospecting rules are separate

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant tour operator / claim or land holder

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsBlack opal, Opal

MethodsVisitor / guided opal fossicking

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Nuggetty State Conservation Area

Tuena / Southern Tablelands · NSW

ConditionalGoldResolve conditions

GoldMineral specimens

NSW NPWS policy lists Nuggetty State Conservation Area as a park where fossicking is permitted, except the banks and alluvial flats adjoining Tuena Creek.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinatePark reference only — exclusion zones are not represented by this pinManagerNSW National Parks and Wildlife ServiceEvidenceHigh · Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessConditional

Licence / permitNo NSW fossicking licence; NPWS policy and park conditions apply

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryPark reference only — exclusion zones are not represented by this pin

Land / tenureNSW National Parks and Wildlife Service

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold, Mineral specimens

MethodsHand-operated fossicking methods only unless the controlling land manager states otherwise.

Season / conditionsCheck current park/forest alerts, fire conditions and road access before travel.

HazardsRemote travel, water conditions, old workings, weather and temporary land-manager closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Environment — Fossicking policy for parks and reserves

Primary source

Nullamanna Fossicking Area — Frazers Creek

Nullamanna / New England · NSW

Verified areaSapphireBoundary + rules check

Sapphire

Tourism Inverell describes Frazers Creek at Nullamanna as a free designated sapphire fossicking site open to the public.

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; free designated site, subject to current access conditions.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signage

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire

MethodsHand fossicking and sieving in/around the permitted creek-bed area; minimise disturbance and backfill.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, heat, storms, fire danger, rough ground and changing local access conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Nundle / Peel River fossicking planning area

New England / Tamworth · NSW

ConditionalGoldResolve conditions

GoldSapphireGemstones

Current Visit NSW guidance says gold and sapphire fossicking still occurs around Nundle and that permits are required to pan. Because exact lawful river/land access depends on the current land manager and consent, this remains a regional planning marker; use the separate managed Fossickers Tourist Park record where appropriate.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessConditional

Licence / permitPermit required for panning; confirm land manager

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold, Sapphire, Gemstones

MethodsGold panning / hand fossicking

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Ophir Reserve — Summer Hill Creek fossicking

Orange / Cabonne · NSW

Verified areaGoldBoundary + rules check

Gold

NSW Government tourism guidance describes Ophir Reserve as a creekside fossicking destination and specifically invites visitors to try gold panning in Summer Hill Creek. Stay within the managed reserve and current lawful access areas.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateOfficial named-reserve reference — Directions use the public reserve destinationManagerPublic reserve / local land managerEvidenceHigh · NSW Government tourism / public reserve

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; land-manager and NSW fossicking rules apply

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial named-reserve reference — Directions use the public reserve destination

Land / tenurePublic reserve / local land manager

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsGold

MethodsHand gold pan and other lawful hand fossicking methods.

Season / conditionsCheck creek level, weather, fire danger and local reserve conditions before travel.

HazardsOld open mine shafts, uneven ground, creek conditions and fire danger.

EvidenceVisit NSW — Ophir Reserve

Primary source

Porters Retreat Little River Fossicking Reserve

Oberon district · NSW

ConditionalSapphireResolve conditions

SapphireZircon

Named by NSW Government tourism guidance as a designated fossicking spot in the Oberon district. Use the current local map and confirm any land-manager conditions before digging.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessConditional

Licence / permitDesignated public-area rules; confirm current conditions

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Zircon

MethodsHand fossicking / sieving

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Sapphire Bend — Vulcan State Forest

Oberon / Black Springs · NSW

ConditionalSapphireResolve conditions

SapphireZirconIndustrial diamond

Forestry Corporation identifies Sapphire Bend in Vulcan State Forest as an area set aside for fossicking. The dedicated set-aside is treated differently from general State Forest fossicking; check the current forest notice and map before visiting.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerForestry Corporation of NSWEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessConditional

Licence / permitCheck current Sapphire Bend set-aside conditions; State Forest authorisation is required outside designated free areas

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureForestry Corporation of NSW

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsSapphire, Zircon, Industrial diamond

MethodsHand fossicking / sieving

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Staggy Creek Fossicking Area

Copeton / New England · NSW

Verified areaOther gemstonesBoundary + rules check

DiamondBlack TourmalineQuartzTopaz

Tourism Inverell identifies Staggy Creek as a rough dry fossicking area where diamonds, black tourmaline, quartz and related gemstones may be found.

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; comply with current site and land-access rules.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signage

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsDiamond, Black Tourmaline, Quartz, Topaz

MethodsTake water for hand washing/sieving or use dry sieving; powered fossicking equipment is not permitted under NSW rules.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsRough dry terrain, heat, limited water, storms, fire danger and changing road conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Stannifer Creek Fossicking Area

Tingha / New England · NSW

Verified areaOther gemstonesBoundary + rules check

Clear QuartzSmoky QuartzRutilated QuartzCitrine

Tourism Inverell identifies the creek crossing at Stannifer as a fossicking area for several varieties of quartz crystal and citrine.

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; comply with current site and land-access rules.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signage

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsClear Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Rutilated Quartz, Citrine

MethodsHand fossicking around the designated creek-crossing area; minimise disturbance and backfill holes.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, heat, storms, fire danger, rough ground and changing local access conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Tambaroora Fossicking Area

Hill End / Bathurst region · NSW

Verified areaGoldBoundary + rules check

Gold

NSW Government visitor guidance identifies the Tambaroora Commons fossicking area north of Hill End for recreational gold fossicking.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateTambaroora locality reference — follow the signed fossicking-area entranceManagerCrown land / local management contextEvidenceHigh · Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo NSW fossicking licence; comply with NSW regulations and site directions

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryTambaroora locality reference — follow the signed fossicking-area entrance

Land / tenureCrown land / local management context

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold

MethodsHand-operated fossicking methods only unless the controlling land manager states otherwise.

Season / conditionsCheck current park/forest alerts, fire conditions and road access before travel.

HazardsRemote travel, water conditions, old workings, weather and temporary land-manager closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government — Tambaroora Fossicking Area

Primary source

Three Creeks Gold Mine

Upper Bingara / Gwydir Shire · NSW

Permission / managed accessMixedPermission needed

GoldGarnetQuartz crystals

Current NSW Government visitor listing identifies this working mine as open for supervised/managed fossicking, gold panning, garnet panning and quartz-crystal sieving. Visitor fees and operator conditions apply; booking ahead is advisable.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional/reference marker — check official sourceManagerThree Creeks Gold Mine / leaseholderEvidenceHigh · Government / council

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitManaged private/working-mine visitor activity — follow operator conditions

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional/reference marker — check official source

Land / tenureThree Creeks Gold Mine / leaseholder

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold, Garnet, Quartz crystals

MethodsPanning and fossicking methods provided/allowed by operator

Season / conditionsCheck operator opening and weather conditions before travel

HazardsWorking-mine environment, old shafts and rural travel hazards; stay within visitor areas.

EvidenceNSW Government visitor listing

Primary source

Three Waters High Country Holidays — Reddestone Creek

Glen Innes Highlands / New England · NSW

Permission / managed accessSapphirePermission needed

SapphireZircon

Glen Innes Highlands currently lists Three Waters as a fossicking location available only to guests. Its fossicking brochure says prior booking is required and identifies sapphire and zircon fossicking in Reddestone Creek.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateManaged-site map reference — Directions use the named property/addressManagerThree Waters High Country HolidaysEvidenceHigh for managed-site access · Council tourism / managed visitor site

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitPrior booking/guest access required; comply with current NSW fossicking rules

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryManaged-site map reference — Directions use the named property/address

Land / tenureThree Waters High Country Holidays

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsSapphire, Zircon

MethodsHand fossicking / sieving / creek fossicking as authorised by the operator.

Season / conditionsCheck bookings, road/weather conditions, bushfire alerts and creek levels before travel.

HazardsUnsealed roads, creek/river conditions, bushfire weather and private-property boundaries.

EvidenceGlen Innes Highlands — current fossicking guide / Three Waters listing

Primary source

Wallangra Fossicking Area

Wallangra / New England · NSW

Verified areaOther gemstonesBoundary + rules check

Black TourmalineQuartz

Tourism Inverell identifies a dry fossicking area near Wallangra Hall where visitors can search for black tourmaline in quartz.

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; comply with current site and land-access rules.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryOfficial council map reference point — follow site signs and mapped access

Land / tenureSite-specific local land manager — follow Tourism Inverell map/signage

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsBlack Tourmaline, Quartz

MethodsDry hand fossicking; bring appropriate hand tools and water.

Season / conditionsCheck current weather, fire danger, road access and creek conditions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, heat, storms, fire danger, rough ground and changing local access conditions can apply.

EvidenceInverell Shire Council / Tourism Inverell

Primary source

Warialda designated-site planning area

New England · NSW

Research onlyGoldResearch only

GoldSapphireGemstones

Official NSW tourism guidance says fossicking maps are available for designated sites around the Warialda countryside. Use those current maps rather than this regional marker for access.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant NSW land managerEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitDepends on the mapped site

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant NSW land manager

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsGold, Sapphire, Gemstones

MethodsRegional fossicking planning

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Warialda petrified-wood country — planning marker

Warialda / Gwydir Shire · NSW

Research onlyMixedResearch only

Petrified woodOpalised woodJasperChertQuartz

Gwydir Shire Council tourism material reports petrified and opalised wood around Warialda and jasper/chert across the Shire. It does not designate this coordinate as an authorised public fossicking site, so the marker is for planning/research only.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional/reference marker — check official sourceManagerVaries by exact groundEvidenceHigh · Government / council

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitConfirm exact land tenure and permission

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional/reference marker — check official source

Land / tenureVaries by exact ground

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsPetrified wood, Opalised wood, Jasper, Chert, Quartz

MethodsNone promoted until access is verified

Season / conditionsSite-specific

HazardsPrivate land, road reserves and other tenure may apply.

EvidenceGwydir Shire Council tourism information

Primary source

Warialda Rail / Kelly’s Gully fossil locality — planning marker

Warialda / Gwydir Shire · NSW

Research onlyFossils / petrified woodResearch only

Fossils

Gwydir Shire tourism information identifies Warialda Rail (Kelly’s Gully) as producing fossils, but the current page does not define a legal collecting boundary or access authorisation. Use this as a research lead only and confirm landholder/land-manager permission before collecting.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional/reference marker — check official sourceManagerVaries by exact groundEvidenceHigh · Government / council

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessResearch only

Licence / permitAccess/permission must be confirmed for the exact ground

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional/reference marker — check official source

Land / tenureVaries by exact ground

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsFossils

MethodsNone promoted until access is verified

Season / conditionsSite-specific

HazardsRoadside/rural access and land-tenure uncertainty.

EvidenceGwydir Shire Council tourism information

Primary source

White Cliffs opal fossicking — visitor activities

Outback NSW · NSW

Permission / managed accessOpalPermission needed

Opal

Official NSW tourism guidance promotes opal-mine visitor experiences around White Cliffs. Treat independent access to opal ground as separate and verify permission before collecting.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateRegional marker — confirm current access mapManagerRelevant tour operator / claim or land holderEvidenceHigh · Government / official tourism

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessPermission / managed access

Licence / permitUse the relevant tour/site permission

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryRegional marker — confirm current access map

Land / tenureRelevant tour operator / claim or land holder

DirectionsSuppressed — use official map/source

MaterialsOpal

MethodsVisitor / guided opal fossicking

Season / conditionsAutumn and spring are often comfortable; check forest closures, fire danger and water levels

HazardsOld mine workings, cold water, fire danger, rough forest roads and changing closures can apply.

EvidenceNSW Government / official visitor guidance

Primary source

Wooldridge Recreation and Fossicking Reserve

Uralla / New England · NSW

Verified areaMixedBoundary + rules check

GoldSemi-precious gemstones

Uralla Shire Council manages Wooldridge as a recreation and fossicking reserve about 6 km from Uralla. Stay within the reserve: NSW Resources Regulator says downstream Crown-waterway areas are restricted.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateUralla Shire Council map location — reserve access referenceManagerUralla Shire CouncilEvidenceHigh · Local government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence; remain within the approved reserve and comply with NSW fossicking rules.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryUralla Shire Council map location — reserve access reference

Land / tenureUralla Shire Council

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsGold, Semi-precious gemstones

MethodsHand panning, hand sieving and other lawful hand-operated fossicking methods.

Season / conditionsCheck creek level, weather and fire restrictions before travel.

HazardsCreek conditions, old workings, fire danger and environmental restrictions. Shooting is prohibited in the reserve.

EvidenceUralla Shire Council — Wooldridge Recreation and Fossicking Reserve

Primary source

Tuena Creek — village fossicking area

Upper Lachlan / Tuena · NSW

Verified areaGoldBoundary + rules check

Gold

NSW Government visitor guidance states that Tuena Creek is open to fossicking within the village area. Treat the mapped point as the named visitor reference and keep activity within the publicly described village-area access.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateNSW Government visitor-page map reference for Parsons General Store / Tuena village; use it as the access reference, not as a legal creek boundary.ManagerLocal public/managed village access — confirm current on-site directionsEvidenceHigh · NSW Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence is required; landholder/land-manager consent and any site-specific rules still control access.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryNSW Government visitor-page map reference for Parsons General Store / Tuena village; use it as the access reference, not as a legal creek boundary.

Land / tenureLocal public/managed village access — confirm current on-site directions

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsGold

MethodsGold pan and permitted hand-operated fossicking tools; no powered excavation equipment.

Season / conditionsYear-round subject to creek conditions, weather, fire restrictions and local access notices.

HazardsCreek conditions, slippery rocks, heat/cold exposure and historic workings can apply. Avoid unstable excavations and private land.

EvidenceNSW Government — Tuena Panning for Gold

Primary source

Goldfields at Ironbarks — Stuart Town

Central West / Stuart Town · NSW

Verified areaGoldBoundary + rules check

Gold

NSW Government visitor guidance states that fossicking and gold panning are available at two sites in the Stuart Town goldfield. The map pin is the official visitor-page reference; obtain the local site details before leaving the common/reference area.

Checked2026-09-09CoordinateNSW Government visitor-page map reference at Wellington Street, Stuart Town; local information identifies the actual fossicking sites.ManagerLocal public/managed goldfield access — confirm the two current fossicking sites locallyEvidenceHigh · NSW Government

Field planning checklistPlanning aid — not collecting permission

AccessVerified area

Licence / permitNo general NSW fossicking licence is required; landholder/land-manager consent and any site-specific rules still control access.

State baselineNo single general NSW fossicking licence; State Forest fossicking authorisation may be required for the forest/site used.

Land accessLandowner or land-manager access rules, native title and specific reserve/forest conditions remain controlling.

Map / boundaryNSW Government visitor-page map reference at Wellington Street, Stuart Town; local information identifies the actual fossicking sites.

Land / tenureLocal public/managed goldfield access — confirm the two current fossicking sites locally

DirectionsAvailable to named/exact destination

MaterialsGold

MethodsGold panning and permitted hand-operated fossicking tools; no powered excavation equipment.

Season / conditionsYear-round subject to local access, weather, fire restrictions and ground conditions.

HazardsNumerous historic mine shafts and old workings are present. Keep clear of shafts, unstable ground and fenced/restricted areas.

EvidenceNSW Government — Goldfields at Ironbarks

Primary source

Use the map without guessing access

Choose a candidate

Filter by material and access class. Research-only markers are leads for further checking, not recommendations to collect.

Open the boundary

Use the official map or area guide. A regional marker can sit kilometres away from a legal collecting boundary.

Check licence and tenure

State rules differ. A licence or Miner’s Right does not automatically grant access to private land, tenements, reserves or closed ground.

Check current conditions

Fire bans, forestry operations, tides, road closures, wildlife protections and park works can change whether a trip is practical.

How records are classified

Verified means a current authoritative source directly supports the location as a recreational fossicking/collecting area. Conditional means a licence, Miner’s Right, official boundary, permit or site condition must be satisfied. Permission covers managed visitor access or land/claim-holder permission. Research only marks a mineral-rich region or visitor lead that is not itself a collecting authorisation. Closed / prohibited records remain visible to prevent accidental access.

Every record includes a checked date, named source, coordinate-precision label, land manager, methods, restrictions, season/conditions, hazards and a field-planning checklist. The decision badge tells visitors whether to verify a boundary, resolve conditions, obtain permission, research further or avoid collecting. Directions are suppressed unless a record has a sufficiently defensible destination; no badge or checklist grants collecting permission.