There’s something magical about the idea of hidden treasures. Here in North Carolina, tales of lost riches tucked away in forests, rivers, and mountains have been passed down for generations.

The best part is, that these all aren’t just old legends. Many people believe fortunes worth millions of dollars could still be out there, waiting for someone to uncover them. It’s a thrill to think that a hidden piece of history might be buried just a short drive from your own backyard.

From the Outer Banks to the Blue Ridge Mountains, every part of the state has its own unique mysteries waiting to be solved.

21 Hidden Treasures in North Carolina You Must Try to Find

Explore some of the most extraordinary and valuable treasures still tucked away in North Carolina:

The El Salvador Shipwreck at Beaufort Inlet – $20,000,000+

The El Salvador was a Spanish ship that sank near Beaufort Inlet off the coast of North Carolina in 1750. It was part of a fleet carrying goods and treasures from the Americas back to Spain. The ship sank during a violent hurricane, and much of its cargo was lost to the sea.

The treasure onboard is believed to have included gold, silver, and precious jewels. It also carried other valuable items like ceramics, coins, and trade goods.

Some believe local settlers or pirates may have discovered the treasure and concealed it for their own use. This has fueled legends of buried treasure in the Beaufort Inlet area.

The treasure may have been hidden along the coastline near the wreck site. Some theories suggest it may be buried on small islands or under the sands of the inlet.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Experts estimate the treasure could be worth between $10 million and $20 million.

Confederate Treasury in Wilkes County – $100,000,000+

The last known location of the treasure was in Georgia before it was reportedly transported north to Wilkes County, North Carolina.

Reports describe it as consisting of millions of dollars in gold and silver coins, jewelry, and other valuables. These items were taken from banks, private citizens, and government reserves to support the Confederate war effort.

It is said to be hidden somewhere in the hills and forests of Wilkes County. Some stories claim it could be buried in a cave, beneath a landmark, or close to a small settlement.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Confederate Treasury could be worth over $100 million.

Kuykendall’s Pot of Gold near Flat Rock – $5,000,000+

Kuykendall’s Pot of Gold is a legendary treasure said to be buried near Flat Rock, North Carolina. It is believed to have been hidden by Abraham Kuykendall, an early settler and militia officer. Kuykendall reportedly buried the gold during the late 18th century to protect his wealth from thieves or attackers.

The treasure is said to include a large pot filled with gold coins. It was reportedly the life savings of Kuykendall, who earned his fortune through trade and farming.

Abraham Kuykendall intended to retrieve it later but either lost track of the location or passed away before he could recover it. The local residents passed down stories of the hidden gold for generations.

Some believe the treasure could be hidden near Kuykendall’s old homestead or along a wooded trail.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Kuykendall’s Pot of Gold could be worth approximately $5 million. Rare coins from the 18th century could significantly increase the treasure’s market value.

Otway Burns’ Pirate Booty – $10,000,000+

Otway Burns was a privateer during the War of 1812 and one of North Carolina’s most famous maritime figures. He captained the schooner Snap Dragon and captured numerous ships, amassing great wealth from plundered goods.

Legends suggest that Burns hid part of his treasure along the North Carolina coast to keep it safe.

Otway Burns himself is thought to have hidden the treasure, possibly with the help of his crew. He was known for his resourcefulness and likely wanted to secure his wealth in case of capture or loss. The exact details of when and where he hid the treasure are lost to history.

Some believe it’ i’s hidden in caves, under sand dunes, or near old landmarks tied to his maritime adventures. Despite many searches, the treasure has never been found.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Otway Burns’ pirate booty is estimated to be worth $10 million.

Reed Gold Mine’s Missing Nuggets – $5,000,000+

Reed Gold Mine, located in Cabarrus County, North Carolina, was the site of the first documented gold discovery in the United States.

In 1799, a 12-year-old named Conrad Reed found a large gold nugget in a creek on his family’s property. Over the years, as the mine expanded, rumors spread that several large nuggets went missing, possibly stolen or hidden by workers.

The missing treasure is believed to include gold nuggets of various sizes, some weighing several pounds. These nuggets were unrefined and highly valuable, representing the rich deposits found in the area. Some might have been set aside or hidden to avoid detection.

Some believed that miners or workers at the Reed Gold Mine may have hidden the nuggets. Others believed that the nuggets were instead hidden by overseers or owners who feared theft or loss.

The missing gold could be buried along the creek, in nearby woods, or in old mine shafts.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Reed Gold Mine’s missing nuggets could be worth approximately $5 million . The value depends on the size and purity of the nuggets. Their significance as part of America’s first gold discovery would also greatly increase their value to collectors and museums.

Lafitte’s Pirate Treasure – $50,000,000+

Lafitte’s Pirate Treasure is a legendary hoard believed to have been buried by Jean Lafitte, a notorious pirate and smuggler. Lafitte was active in the early 19th century and operated along the Gulf Coast and the Atlantic.

The treasure reportedly includes gold coins, silver bars, jewels, and other valuable loot. These items were likely stolen from merchant ships captured by Lafitte and his crew. The treasure may also include artifacts taken from Spanish or British ships.

Jean Lafitte is believed to have hidden the treasure himself or with the help of his crew. Lafitte was known for his cunning and often buried his loot to protect it from rivals and authorities. Local legends suggest he may have buried the treasure in Brunswick County while fleeing the law.

The treasure is thought to be buried somewhere along the coast or in the marshes of Brunswick County. Some believe it could be hidden on Oak Island or near Bald Head Island.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The treasure could be worth approximately $50 million. The value depends on the amount of gold, silver, and jewels included. The connection to Lafitte could make it even more valuable.

Revolutionary War Payroll near Bell’s Mills – $15,000,000+

During the Revolutionary War, British Loyalists intercepted and looted a Patriot payroll around 1781 near Bell’s Mills in Randolph County, North Carolina. The payroll was intended to pay Patriot soldiers fighting against British forces. The Loyalists buried the treasure after looting it to prevent its recovery by the Patriots.

The treasure is believed to include gold and silver coins, as well as other valuable items used as payment during the war. These funds were essential for sustaining the Continental Army.

The exact size of the hoard is unknown, but it was significant enough to support military operations.

It’s possible that the treasure was buried along the Deep River or in the surrounding area near Bell’s Mills. There’s also mention of specific landmarks, such as large trees or old trails, that might point to its location.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Revolutionary War Payroll near Bell’s Mills could be worth around $15 million.

Lost Colony of Roanoke’s Hidden Valuables – $10,000,000+

The Lost Colony of Roanoke was an English settlement established in 1587 on Roanoke Island, North Carolina. When supply ships returned in 1590, the colonists had disappeared, leaving behind few clues.

Some believe they buried valuables to protect them before leaving or being forced to abandon the colony.

The hidden valuables are said to include gold coins, silver items, tools, and personal belongings brought by the settlers. These items were likely crucial for trade or survival. Artifacts such as ceremonial objects or jewelry might also be part of the treasure.

The treasure is thought to be buried somewhere on or near Roanoke Island. Some believe it could also be hidden along the coastal regions where the colonists might have relocated. Archaeological digs have uncovered clues, but the full treasure has never been found.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Lost Colony’s hidden valuables could be worth over $10 million.

Theodosia Burr Alston’s Jewels – $5,000,000+

Theodosia Burr Alston, the daughter of Aaron Burr, disappeared in 1813 while traveling from South Carolina to New York. She was aboard the schooner Patriot, which vanished off the North Carolina coast, possibly near the Outer Banks.

Legends suggest she carried valuable jewels, given to her as gifts, which were lost with her disappearance. The jewels might have been buried or lost possibly near Nags Head or Ocracoke.

The treasure is believed to include fine jewelry such as diamond necklaces, rings, and brooches. These were personal items of Theodosia, reflecting her wealthy and influential family background.

It is unclear who might have hidden the treasure, but theories suggest it could have been survivors of the shipwreck or pirates who attacked the Patriot. Stories also tell of locals who may have stumbled upon the jewels washed ashore and hidden them for themselves.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Theodosia Burr Alston’s jewels are estimated to be worth $5 million. This value reflects the intrinsic worth of the gemstones and their historical connection to one of America’s most prominent families. Collectors and museums would likely pay even higher amounts for such a significant find.

David Fanning’s Loot along Deep River – $10,000,000+

David Fanning was a notorious Loyalist during the Revolutionary War known for raiding Patriot settlements and stealing valuables.

Fanning is believed to have hidden his plunder in North Carolina. After the war, he fled to Canada, leaving the hidden caches behind.

Fanning himself may have hidden the treasure in caves or other secluded areas near the Deep River. His intimate knowledge of the region helped him find safe spots to bury the loot.

The treasure was hidden in the late 1700s. This was a time when Loyalists like Fanning were losing power and fleeing from Patriot forces. The chaotic circumstances likely led to the permanent loss of the treasure.

How much the treasure would be worth today

David Fanning’s loot could be worth around $10 million. Any items tied to the Revolutionary War and Fanning’s infamous legacy would add significant value.

Snowbird Mountain Cherokee Silver – $20,000,000+

The Cherokee people are believed to have buried the silver to protect it during the 1830s, around the time of the Trail of Tears. This was a period when many Cherokee were forced from their land and feared losing their wealth to settlers or the U.S. government.

Tribal leaders and families likely worked together to bury the treasure in a safe location. They intended to return for it, but many never had the chance due to forced relocation.

The silver is thought to be buried somewhere in or around Snowbird Mountain. Local legends suggest it could be hidden in caves, under large rock formations, or near water sources in the area.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Snowbird Mountain Cherokee Silver could be worth approximately $20 million.

Tom Dula’s Hidden Loot – $1,000,000+

Tom Dula, famously known as “Tom Dooley,” was a Confederate soldier and a folk figure involved in a love triangle that led to a murder trial and his execution in 1868.

Local legends suggest that before his capture, Dula hid a stash of stolen money or valuables. These items were believed to be part of a robbery or plunder from his time as a soldier during the Civil War.

The hidden loot is rumored to include gold coins, cash, or small valuable items. Some accounts claim it could also include personal belongings or relics from Dula’s wartime activities. The exact nature of the treasure remains uncertain, adding to its mystery.

Dula was known to have been on the run in the Wilkes County area of North Carolina before his capture. He likely chose a remote location to bury the treasure for safekeeping.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Tom Dula’s hidden loot is estimated to be worth $1 million.

Bank of New Bern’s Civil War Gold – $2,000,000+

During the Civil War, the Bank of New Bern in North Carolina safeguarded its wealth by hiding its gold and silver. Bank officials refused to exchange their holdings for Confederate bonds, fearing they would lose everything.

In 1861, they took $75,000 in gold and silver and buried it in jugs near Salisbury, North Carolina.

The treasure is believed to include gold and silver coins, bars, and possibly other valuable items. These were the bank’s reserves, meant to ensure stability during the war.

Bank officials, likely led by the institution’s managers, are thought to have buried the treasure themselves. They chose a grove near Salisbury as the hiding spot, hoping the location would remain secure. However, the exact location was lost over time, leaving the treasure undiscovered.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Bank of New Bern’s Civil War gold could be worth approximately $2 million.

Lost Incan Gold in the Great Dismal Swamp – $100,000,000+

The Lost Incan Gold is a treasure believed to have been hidden in the Great Dismal Swamp, which lies between Virginia and North Carolina.

According to the story, Spanish explorers carrying gold stolen from the Incan Empire fled into the swamp to escape capture. Unable to transport the treasure further, they are said to have buried it in a secret location.

The treasure reportedly includes gold artifacts, coins, and ceremonial items taken from the Incas during Spain’s conquest of South America. These riches were likely looted by Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s. The items may have included intricate gold carvings, religious symbols, and large amounts of raw gold.

The Great Dismal Swamp, with its dense vegetation and treacherous terrain, provided an ideal hiding place. Stories suggest it could be hidden in an area that has since become overgrown or submerged in water.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The treasure could be worth over $100 million. Items tied to the Incan Empire and Spanish conquest would also have immense value.

Guilford Courthouse Burial Grounds – $10,000,000+

Guilford Courthouse, located in present-day Greensboro, North Carolina, was the site of a pivotal battle during the American Revolutionary War in 1781. The battle involved British forces under General Cornwallis and American troops led by General Nathanael Greene.

Local legends suggest that during or after the battle, a treasure was buried in the area by fleeing soldiers or Loyalists.

The treasure is believed to include gold and silver coins, military artifacts, and possibly personal valuables. The items may have been part of British war funds or the possessions of Loyalists who sought to hide their wealth from advancing Patriot forces.

Some believe it was hidden during the retreat after the battle, as troops moved quickly to regroup and avoid capture. The treasure’s location may have been intentionally concealed or lost over time.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The treasure could be worth around $10 million.

Underground Railroad Gold in Madison County – $5,000,000+

The Underground Railroad was a network of secret routes and safe houses that helped enslaved people escape to freedom in the 19th century.

In Madison County, North Carolina, local legends tell of gold hidden by abolitionists to fund their efforts. The treasure was reportedly buried to prevent it from being discovered by pro-slavery forces or thieves.

The specific individuals who participated in these efforts remain unknown, as secrecy was vital to the Railroad’s success.

The gold is thought to be hidden in or near Madison County, possibly in caves, along riverbanks, or buried near old homesteads. The area has quite a rugged terrain that could provide a natural cover for such treasures.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Any artifacts involved in the abolitionist movement would hold great value to collectors and historians. As a whole, the treasure could be worth approximately $5 million.

Currituck Beach Spanish Treasure – $80,000,000+

The Currituck Beach Spanish Treasure is linked to shipwrecks from the 16th and 17th centuries along North Carolina’s Outer Banks.

Spanish galleons carrying gold, silver, and jewels from the Americas to Europe often fell victim to hurricanes and dangerous waters. One such ship is believed to have sunk near Currituck Beach, leaving behind a treasure trove.

It’ i’s believed that Spanish sailors or survivors of the wreck tried to secure the treasure by burying it or hiding it near the shoreline. Stories passed down through generations suggest that locals or pirates may have discovered some of the loot but left much of it untouched.

Shifting sands and changing coastlines have made it difficult to locate. Over the years, occasional coins and artifacts have been found, fueling hopes that more remains are buried in the area.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Currituck Beach Spanish Treasure has an estimated value of $80 million.

Stede Bonnet’s Buried Wealth – $15,000,000+

Stede Bonnet, known as the “Gentleman Pirate,” was an infamous pirate during the early 18th century. A former plantation owner turned pirate, Bonnet captured numerous ships and amassed considerable loot during his career. Legends suggest he buried part of his wealth along the coast before his capture in 1718.

The treasure is believed to include gold coins, silver bars, jewelry, and other plundered valuables from Bonnet’s piracy. These items were likely taken from merchant ships traveling through the Caribbean and along the American coastline.

He operated along the southeastern coast of the United States, including areas near North Carolina and South Carolina. Before his execution, Bonnet reportedly hinted at hidden wealth, though he never revealed its location.

The treasure is rumored to be buried somewhere along the coasts of North Carolina or South Carolina, near areas where Bonnet was active.

How much the treasure would be worth today

Stede Bonnet’s buried wealth would be worth $15 million.

Hanging Rock Gold in Stokes County – $8,000,000+

The legend of the Hanging Rock Gold in Stokes County, North Carolina, dates back to the Civil War era. Confederate soldiers or sympathizers are believed to have hidden a large quantity of gold to keep it from falling into Union hands.

The hidden treasure is said to consist of gold coins and possibly gold bars. These were likely part of Confederate funds or personal wealth carried by soldiers or civilians. The gold was buried during a time of chaos and uncertainty to ensure its safety.

It’s thought to be buried in the area surrounding Hanging Rock, including caves, crevices, or beneath large rock formations. The difficult terrain and limited records have made locating the treasure challenging.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Hanging Rock gold would be worth $8 million.

The Gold Hill Mining District – $20,000,000+

The Gold Hill Mining District in North Carolina has long been associated with stories of hidden treasure. The area was one of the first gold rush sites in the United States during the early 1800s. Miners flocked to Gold Hill, pulling wealth from the ground, but some of it was never recovered.

The treasure is believed to include gold nuggets, coins, and jewelry. These items may have been buried or lost by miners and local residents during the gold rush. Over time, legends have grown about hidden caches of gold in the area.

No single person is credited with hiding the treasure, but miners and prospectors likely concealed their findings to protect them.

The treasure might have been hidden in the land surrounding Gold Hill or within its old mining tunnels.

How much the treasure would be worth today

If discovered, the treasure from the Gold Hill Mining District could be worth around $20 million or more.

Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge Booty – $5,000,000+

The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, fought in 1776 during the American Revolution, is linked to a legendary hidden treasure. After the Patriot forces defeated Loyalist troops, stories emerged that the Loyalists had been carrying gold to fund their campaign. It is said that the treasure was hidden during their retreat.

The Loyalist forces, led by General Donald MacDonald and Captain Donald McLeod, are thought to have hidden the treasure. They were retreating in disarray after their defeat at Moore’s Creek Bridge.

The treasure is thought to be hidden near the site of the battle in modern-day Pender County, North Carolina. The area around Moore’s Creek is filled with forests and swamps, making it an ideal place for someone to hide valuables.

How much the treasure would be worth today

The Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge treasure could be worth over $5 million.