Take a step back to the 1800’s and mine for gold in Keystone, South Dakota. Big Thunder Gold Mine offers panning, as well as tours of their mine and is a great place to visit with the whole family! Big Thunder Gold Mine Located about 3.5 miles from Mount Rushmore, a visit to Big Thunder Gold Mine is a must when trying to embrace the old west vibes of South Dakota. The attraction offers onsite and offsite gold panning, gem panning, as well as tours of the mine. My family did not strike it rich during our visit, but we had fun trying! Read on for all of the details…