Why has the idea that Americans must spend exorbitant amounts of money to have an exciting vacation penetrated the national consciousness? Americans endure 50 weeks of work, saving all the while, just to then spend too much money on vacation. In fact, many Americans willingly go into debt just to pay for their vacations. The average American family spends about $4,800 to go on vacation once a year.
Additionally, about 75% of Americans will then borrow money, or use a credit card, to have extra vacation money. Most Americans go into vacation debt by about $1,100. Some are inclined to spend more money just to experience a luxurious vacation. Having a great vacation means so much to most Americans, most go out of their way to make sure that they spend more on it than their monthly mortgage payment.
It doesn’t have to be this way. If you’re looking for affordable ways to have a fun vacation this year, you could try panning for gold. There are many places where you can affordably do so.
Reed Gold Mine Charlotte, North Carolina
The world’s first legally documented gold mine claim was staked here in 1799. Way back then, Conrad Reed was walking along the banks of the Little Meadow Creek. A shiny, reflective substance caught his attention in the water. It was a large, 17-pound gold nugget. Contrary to popular belief, gold panning began in the eastern United States. The famed gold rush of the west would begin much later on in 1848.
People have been pulling gold nuggets, flakes, and particulates of varying sizes from Little Meadow Creek ever since. Admission is reportedly just $2. You can also learn about other methods of extracting gold from land as well.
Black Hills Forest South Dakota
Various deposits of gold were discovered in Deadwood Creek in 1876. Deadwood Creek is located in the Black Hills Forest of South Dakota. Panning for gold is an activity that is still conducted to this day. Large swathes of the Black Hills Forest are located on public land, so you don’t have to worry about trespassing. Just remember to bring your own hiking and panning equipment.
You will be charged for admission. Admission costs varies on the area in which you want to pan.
Alabama Gold Camp Alabama
You can pan for gold and other precious materials at Alabama Gold Camp. Along with gold, you can search for precious gemstones like garnet or citrine. You can also look for precious metals using a metal detector. Or, you can spend time looking for Native American artifacts or the fossils of long extinct animals Admission is $5 a person. Children under the age of 11 accompanied with an adult are admitted for free.
A camping ground is available for use for $5 a day, or $30 a day for RVs. You can buy panning and outdoor gear at the general store located on the premises. Cabins fitted with modern conveniences, like a bathroom, washing machine, WiFi, and DVD player, are available for $75 a day.
Affordable and Fun
Panning for gold is an activity that should cost you a lot less than $4,800. It’s fun, will help you get some exercise, and will give you some unique bragging rights when you get back. Also keep in mind that gold is selling for about $1,275 an ounce, just for some added motivation.
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Allen Francis was an academic advisor, librarian, and college adjunct for many years with no money, no financial literacy, and no responsibility when he had money. To him, the phrase “personal finance,” contains the power that anyone has to grow their own wealth. Allen is an advocate of best personal financial practices including focusing on your needs instead of your wants, asking for help when you need it, saving and investing in your own small business.