Independent of where you do it, panning for gold can be an exciting activity to enjoy with your whole family. However, if you are also practicing to see profits from your efforts, you should know which places offer you the best chances of retrieving gold.
The best places to pan for gold are scattered across several states, including California, Colorado, Alaska, Nevada, Alabama, South Dakota, and Oregon. Other locations include British Columbia in Canada. Also, mining sites can be found on other continents, yet here panning is not fruitful.
Of course, to make the most out of your outings, you should know the best places to pan for gold. Let’s dive into the best options!
Table of Contents
American River, California
The American River in California is arguably the most famous location in the world for prospectors to try their hand at gold panning. The American River runs through central California, surrounding Sacramento. Most famous for flowing through the world-famous Mother Lode, the American River is one of the richest in the world and triggered the 1850s Gold Rush in California.
Indeed, on the 24th of January 1848, the gold discovery at Sutter’s Mill by James Marshall happened, changing the history and destiny of the state forever. Since then, an increasing number of prospectors from around the world flooded the city, attempting to claim some nuggets.
While not all the river sections are gold-bearing, the ones that are still yielding excellent results today. The area is subdivided into three branches spacing across several counties: the North, South, and Middle Fork.
However, the American River comprises hundreds of streams, brooks, and smaller rivers that make up its main course. Several of these areas are being mined and prospected for gold and are being claimed through mining claims. Simultaneously, some locations still yield a surprising potential, as there are lodes that have not yet been discovered.
If you are looking for a location for you to pan for gold, head to the Auburn State Recreational Area. Aside from the excellent opportunities for prospecting it provides, the area boasts a unique natural beauty bound to enchant all visitors. Additionally, as you take some hours off prospecting, the site is perfect for other recreational activities such as hiking, trekking, biking, rafting, and fishing.
Before booking your trip, you should also keep in mind that several guidelines regulate the practice of prospecting in the American River. Suction dredges are banned across the state of California, and there are some guidelines to follow in terms of the size of the prospecting equipment you have with you.
Since the regulations tend to change and adapt, it is always recommendable to get in touch with the local authorities at the Auburn State Recreational Area to get the latest updates. Naturally, prospecting concerning the surrounding nature and other prospectors is paramount.
While here, don’t forget that this is one of the best gold-producing areas in the world, and it is bound to offer you endless rewards!
Jamestown, California
As we have seen above, California has always been among the most sought-after destinations for prospectors around the world. While it was among the first places to catch the attention of gold gunters in the early 1850s, California has never stopped being a rich, gold-bearing land.
Jamestown, a city close to the stunning Yosemite National Park, is one of the best locations in the state for both beginners and experts. In particular, this area has been subjected to several Gold Rushes, the second one of which happened in the 1880s. Indeed, new gold-bearing locations across the South Fork are found continuously, yet Jamestown has never stopped being one of the best ones.
Every year, prospectors who embark on tours along Jamestown’s river have been able to retrieve impressive gold quantities from 19 to 39 ounces (590g to 1.2kg).
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historical Park, California
Located right in the heart of California just off Sacramento, the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historical Park runs along the gold-bearing American River. Named after the prospector who found the first nugget in this river in 1948, James W. Marshall, this location in California has not disappointed prospectors since then.
Today, the visitors of this park have the chance to pan for gold in the most famous gold-bearing location in the world. Additionally, here you can enjoy hikes and other outdoor recreational activities such as camping and picnics. Independently on your skill level, remember that the area boasts some of the most beautiful natural surroundings in California.
However, if you decide to go gold panning in California, consider whether this park is the right location to fulfill your prospecting needs. Undoubtedly, you can take gold panning lessons, visit museums, and learn about the history of the place. Visitors can get unique insights into what life was like in those days in the Coloma Valley.
Before heading to this site, any visitor needs to inform him or herself about the river’s current flow and water conditions. This information is particularly crucial if you are planning on taking gold-planning lessons or if you wish to experience it yourself.
Fairbanks, Alaska
Fairbanks is where the Gold Rush in Alaska started in July 1903. Here, two years earlier, prospectors Tom Gilmore and Felice Pedroni had discovered the first nuggets, yet the mining operations did not yield the expected results. Then the second gold rush in the area started, which made prospector Dennis O’Shea notable and rich.
Indeed, the mining sites surrounding Fairbanks become one of the largest producers of gold. Lode deposits in the area have produced over 4 million troy ounces (124 tonnes), and deposits have yielded 8 million troy ounces (250 tonnes) of gold. These impressive quantities have made the area famous worldwide among prospectors, hobbyists, and aficionados.
Additionally, with the Midnight Sun shining in summer and the Aurora Borealis dancing in the skies in winter, Fairbanks is one of the most capturing places to visit.
Since most of the grounds fall within mining claims and mines in operations, it is essential to speak to the authorities before heading on a trip. If you are planning an educational experience, the most convenient way of panning in the area is to purchase a tour of the famous GoldDaughters mine. These usually include gold panning training and skills in the wild.
However, the nearby Nome Creek in the White Mountains Recreation Area can be extremely stimulating for more expert prospectors who prefer to have another type of experience in Alaska. Of course, if you are planning a prospecting trip here, you should also be comfortable with camping in the wild, since this area is more remote and isolated compared to the mine.
Check out what to expect from the video below:
Crow Creek Gold Mine, Alaska
For how beautiful this state is, Alaska also boasts incredible wilderness that might not be particularly accessible by inexperienced prospectors or outdoorsmen. Instead, if you wish to immerse yourself completely in the culture and history of the place without missing out on gold, panning in one of the world’s most famous locations, then the Crow Creek Gold Mine is for you.
This gold mine is among the oldest ones in Alaska, founded in 1896. During these years, several large veins were found in the surrounding of Crow Creek, which attracted thousands of prospectors and entrepreneurs from across the world.
Today the mine is still in operation and, while it is not as productive as it once was, you can still find gold along the river by panning. However, the mine has become even more famous for what it represents, making it a must-see location for any expert and beginner prospectors alike.
Here you can explore the wilderness of Alaska in all safety, get gold planning lessons, visit the mine and museum, and spend time in the surrounding gardens. Then, after the tours, visitors are encouraged to try panning themselves on the banks of the river.
Black Hills, South Dakota
After gold was discovered in the Deadwood Creek in the early 1870s, the northern Black Hills in South Dakota became one of the most sought-after mining towns for all prospectors. Since then, the richest creeks were claimed by the earliest prospectors, but mining and panning is still the main activity here.
Today an underground laboratory, the Homestake Mine, was established as the first deposits and lodes found just off the town of Lead. This mine was one of the broadest and most deepest North America, making it a unique place for prospectors worldwide.
While there might still be gold left to find the surroundings, the area is attractive for many other reasons. Of course, you can attempt to pan for gold in one of the world’s most famous locations. However, the mine is situated at the heart of the National park containing Mount Rushmore.
Here you can visit monuments, museums, and America’s Shrine of Democracy. Instead, if you prefer other activities, ATV tours, mountain biking, hiking, camping, walking, and canoeing are only some of the things you can do in the area.
Big Thunder Gold Mine, South Dakota
Another location in which to pan for Gold in South Dakota is the Big Thunder Gold Mine. The site, located in the Black Hills, allows you to book tours to learn how to pan, discover the area’s history, and try your hand at this sport. Founded in 1892 by two prospectors who immigrated from German, the mine was initially named Gold Hill Lode. Today, it is open for visitors daily and provides all services you might need while on your trip.
However, it is also worth considering that the Black Hills boasts several acres of public land where you can pan for gold for free, without having to join a tour. In this case, you will need to be self-sufficient and equipped with a pan. You might also need other pieces of equipment such as sluice boxes, buckets, shovels, and vials.
Northern Nevada
While the first mines were established in the early 1870s, gold mining and prospecting in Nevada still represents a significant contributor to the state’s economy. Today, the quantity of gold mined in Nevada is much higher than in any other country. For example, in 2018, the state produces over 5.5 million troy ounces (over 173 tonnes) of gold, which makes up for 78% of gold mined in the US in that year and 5% of the one mined internationally.
However, inexperienced prospectors who are looking at finding gold in the area should know that, in most situations, using just a gold pan might not be enough. That is mainly due to the geological characteristics of the state, as well as the fact that cold in Nevada is often found in its rock – or lode – form rather than deposits.
Metal detectors or dry washers are much more suitable pieces of equipment unless you wish to carry the water for the panning process with you on your trip.
Major mining operations in Nevada are scattered across the different counties, as several deposits have been found since the initial Gold Rush. If you are not committed to buying the necessary equipment to mine for gold yourself, you could opt for undertaking a tour of the existing mines. In this case, you will have to find one that offers tours open to the public.
Pikes Peak, Colorado
Along with California and Alaska, Colorado is one of the states with the highest number of gold-bearing grounds across the United States. Pikes Peak, the highest summit of the Rocky Mountains’ Front Range, was found gold-bearing in 1958, opening the way to one of the most massive Gold Rushes in America.
The location in which the gold was found is not far from where Denver is located today, and panning often happens along Cherry Creek and its tributaries. The area surrounding and along this river is one of the richest mining sites of Colorado. After many years of mining procedures and impressive results, the site still holds gold to be found by modern prospectors.
Additionally, the area offers opportunities for climbing, hiking, and walking. Since Pikes Peak is an incredibly vast area, you should always get in touch with the local authorities to check whether a specific location is free for panning. Alternatively, several visitor centers in the area will be able to help you with your tour.
Rogue River, Oregon
The Rogue River in Oregon forms one of the most complex river systems in the southwest region of the US. All the surrounding gold-bearing locations tend to drop gold deposits into it, which will all eventually flow to the Rogue River.
The Rogue River is known to be one of the main gold-producing areas in the state and has become a significant destination for gold prospectors. If you wish to increase your chances of finding gold along this river, you should head to its lower side, between the Pacific Ocean and the Grants Pass.
However, some of the richest prospecting locations are within the Hellgate Recreation Area. While prospecting for gold in this area, it is essential to keep in mind that no large pieces of equipment are allowed. Therefore, you should limit yourself to the use of a pan or a smaller sluice box.
Additionally, prospectors should be mindful that several locations fall within private properties and under the land of riparian owners. In this case, you might need further permits and discuss the rights over any gold found.
Dahlonega, Georgia
In the heart of Lumpkin County in Georgia, Dahlonega is part of the Carolina Slate Belt, one of the richest gold-bearing locations in the Southeast region of the United States.
The town is famous for its gold-bearing potential since the first gold Rushes in the 1820s. If you are looking for the best locations in the extensive area that surround the city, you should head to:
- Chestatee River
- Etowah River
- Tesnatee River
- Chattahoochee River
- Nacoochee River
However, the area is so rich that any river in the region is worth checking out with your pan. Even in this case, you should check the relevant regulations that limit the use of larger mining equipment and regulate the release of permits.
While in Dahlonega, don’t forget to visit the many wineries that make this region of the most famous in the United States for the production of wine.
Feather River, California
As we have seen above, California is one of the richest and most sought-after destinations for prospectors in the United States. The Feather River, in particular, is one of the largest Sacramento River’s largest tributaries that run through the state.
Due to its incredible gold-bearing potential, the Feather River can be panned for gold throughout, and still yields positive results. If you prefer to stay off the main river course, you could opt to visit one of the main tributaries of this river, as well as smaller creeks and streams that flow into it. The Feather River also flows through California’s Mother Lode, making the regions of Marysville, Yuba City, and Oroville some of the richest in the state.
Undeniably, the area has seen extensive mining operations for decades. Yet, the regular spring runoffs continuously replenish the gold in these rivers. Due to the slow-flowing water, the stunning surroundings, and the area’s accessibility, the Feather River is one of the best locations in the US to prospect for gold with a pan. The site is also suitable for beginners and intermediate prospectors.
Alabama Gold Camp, Alabama
Alabama Gold Camp, in the heart of Alabama’s gold belt, offers the opportunity to experts and beginners to pan for gold across several miles of creeks and rivers. Aside from using a pan, you can try your hand at sluicing, dredging, or using a metal detector.
Unlike most of the locations we have seen above, the Alabama Gold Camp is unique in its design. Indeed, this is primarily a camping site that offers all the facilities you might need on your trip. If you decide to book here, you can spend entire days prospecting for gold without the need for additional permits.
However, if you have opted to just check the area out during the day, you can only check-in at the visitor center and then head off to the creeks. While there is an attractive gold-bearing potential, prospectors can also find fossils, red garnet stones, and ancient Indian artifacts.
Libby Creek Recreational Gold Panning Area, Montana
Located just 23 miles (37km) south of Libby, this recreational area in Montana is dedicated entirely to gold-panning activities, and it is free for prospectors to visit. One of the most attractive characteristics of this area is that you can keep the gold you have found. However, prospectors should not expect extensive facilities or equipment rentals in the area.
Some regulations do apply when deciding to pan for gold here. However, the area remains one of the favorites for recreational prospectors to spend a day in nature. Additionally, the site is within the Kootenai National Forest, a wilderness area in the heart of Montana known for its beautiful surroundings.
While the history of gold prospecting in the Libby Creek started in the early 1860s, the area still yields an attractive potential.
Alta Ranch, Montana
The historic homestead at the core of this gold-bearing location in Montana is one of the most attractive in the region. Prospectors can search for gold during the day and opt to stay in one of the traditional cabins in the forests overnight.
If you are looking for gold while spending a vacation here, it is crucial to keep in mind that gold cannot be found in the ranch. Instead, heading upstream and following the course of the nearby river, you will be able to find an active placer gold mine. With the surroundings of the mine, you can then pan for gold successfully.
The Alta Ranch is fully equipped for pan rentals, and they will be happy to offer indications regarding the locations that could yield better results.
Consolidated Gold Mine, Georgia
While Northern Georgia is not often considered among the locations with the highest gold-bearing potential in the US, there has been a small Gold Rush in 1928. Here is also where the famous “Thar’s gold in them thar hills” actually comes from!
This mine might not be the ideal location to pan for gold, but a tour here is a must-do activity while in Georgia. Moreover, once the trip is over, prospectors can try to pan for gold in the surrounding rivers and creeks.
The Consolidated Gold Mine is the perfect place for anybody interested in gold prospecting to learn more about this skill. Indeed, there are instructors available that will guide you through each step of the process.
Mosquito Pass to Independence Pass, Colorado
If you are looking for the best location to pan for Gold in Colorado, the area between the Mosquito Pass and Independence Pass can yield surprising results. The site is crossed by several rivers and creeks in which any prospector can search for gold successfully.
However, this location is preferred by prospectors who are looking at refining their skills rather than making this activity profitable. Indeed, most of the land between these two Passes is privately owned. While this does not necessarily stop you from panning for gold, you might not have the right to keep your findings.
International Locations
The USA is undoubtedly one of the best locations to pan and prospect for gold in the world. However, if you are in another country or continent, some locations are worth checking out.
- The Klondike Region, Yukon, Canada
This extensive gold-bearing location has caused a smaller Gold Rush in the past, attracting over 100,000 prospectors in search of gold. Unfortunately, only a few of those managed to make their efforts profitable. The area is undoubtedly gold-bearing and boasting productive creeks and rivers. However, it is so extensive that prospectors have struggled to find enough gold to see profits. This should not stop prospectors from exploring it.
- Atlin, British Columbia, Canada
This remote area in British Columbia is not among the best-known ones, possibly due to its not-so-accessible location. However, the site does have an unexplored gold-bearing potential that can be particularly attractive for experienced prospectors.
- Tankavaara, Lapland
In Lapland, one of the few regions in which to pan for Gold in Europe is Tankavaara or the Gold Village. While gold findings are not the most consistent here, it can offer a unique panning experience.
- Dolaucothi and Gwynedd, Wales
These areas in Wales are the only two in the world where to find the naturally-occurring Welsh Gold. While beautiful and gold-bearing, these locations are regulated by a strict series of laws and rules which prospector panning here have to keep in mind.
- Otago, New Zealand
Otago is one of the few sites in New Zealand where gold panning is carried out as a recreational activity. Findings are inconsistent, yet the town has been the focal point of a minor Gold Rush in the past.
Conclusion
Panning for gold in these locations is likely to yield the results you were expecting – with the right equipment and skills. Of course, these are not all the places where to pan for gold, especially because every river has gold-bearing potential. However, if you are panning in America, states such as California, Alaska, Colorado, and Nevada are likely to increase your chances of succeeding in your efforts.