With the popularity of that Gold Rush show, I was wondering if anyone has ever tried gold panning in western Oregon? The Sandy or Clackamas rivers could show a little color, couldn't they? Just wondering if anyone else has ever thought of this.
that’s not true there is good gold panning in the opal creek drainage and along parts of the North Santiam river. Also you have the Quartsville area out of Eugene no need to go all the way to Myrtle Creek for gold.Closest place to really find any gold is Dole Bar down in Myrtle Creek.
I suggest folks who want to dip a pan or shovel some dirt do some research first. Any stream that is worth panning has probably got claims the length of it. Start your research at oregon usgs website or blm lr2000 website. There you will find maps of claimed land which is not 100% accurate as the county land offices have the official records up to date on claimed mineral rights. I would suggest joining a local prospecting club to learn the ins and outs of regulations, and there are lots of em, regulations that is.I was hunting the woods of SW WA this fall and came across some wierd signs on trees in a couple places. After closer inspection they were notices of mining claims, and I hadn't remembered seeing them in the past. I even came across an old mineshaft in a hillside.
I don't know any more about gold panning than what I've seen on tv, but might give it a try next time I pass some creeks in my local hunting haunts.
I'd love to go sometime. I read several books about panning 10+ years ago, but I got side-tracked and never got around to trying it. I have a pan, a pick, a prybar, a snifter bottle, and probably some other misc. stuff; I just never had anyone experienced to show me the ropes.If you're new to this recreation I'd say go to Quartzville recreational area first. There is gold there. It's not big gold but it's there and can keep you busy. Plus it's an excellent place to learn. Northeast and the SouthWest part of the state are best.
Please do your research and get any of the permits you may need. Read up on current mining laws. We're fighting for our rights to prospect ....it's about as bad as the Marine Reserves if not worse! AND make sure you are not on someone's claim. Claim owners do not take things lightly and you can bet they are armed, some heavily. As was said most heavily ladden areas are mostly claimed up. I'd also suggest Dole Rd in Myrtle creek as a good place to start. My best day ever was within 20 miles of Dole Rd.
If others are interested I'd be willing to do a trip to the Quartzville recreational area to help a few beginners out. I have some pans(5or6) that I'd be willing to let you use. I'm by no means a pro but I seem to find something each time I go. Might only be the size of a . but hey color is Color!
My Gold Fever is about as bad as my Tuna Fever!
Whereabouts will you be?The Boy and I will be hitting up the North Santiam in the morning if anyone wants to meet up! Let me know RP