Prospecting for gold in Southern California holds a rich history, with notable areas such as Kern, San Gabriel River, San Bernardino, Joshua Tree, and coastal spots still yielding decent amounts of gold. While striking it rich might be unlikely, places like San Gabriel remain popular due to rumors about an undiscovered motherlode. However, prospectors must be cautious about claims and regulations, as fines can be substantial, and some individuals may protect their claims with firearms.
Here’s a list of places where you can find gold, particularly in Southern California:
- Kern River: Known for its gold deposits, Kern River offers opportunities for gold prospecting. The river runs through the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
- San Gabriel River: The East Fork of the San Gabriel River is a popular area for gold prospecting, although there may be restrictions due to its National Monument designation.
- San Bernardino Mountains: Despite safety concerns when prospecting alone, the San Bernardino Mountains are mentioned as having gold deposits.
- Joshua Tree: This area in Southern California is known for its unique landscapes and is reported to produce decent amounts of gold.
- Coastal Spots: Some beach and coastal areas in Southern California are known to yield gold. These locations may require specific permissions or adherence to regulations.
- Santa Ana Mountains: Southwest of Los Angeles, near the border of Orange County and Riverside County, the Santa Ana Mountains offer opportunities for prospecting in public land within the Cleveland National Forest.
- Motherlode/Sonora Area: This region is recommended for gold prospecting without the need for permits. It is suggested to explore foothills where mining occurred in the 1800s.
- Big Bear: Located in Southern California, Big Bear is mentioned as a place with gold deposits. Local BLM offices can provide more information.
- Julian: Another location in Southern California where gold can be found. Check with local authorities for regulations.
- Santa Clarita: This area is noted for its gold deposits. Ensure compliance with any local regulations or claims.
- Keyesville Open Claim Area: Situated below the main dam of Lake Isabella, Keyesville is recommended for gold prospecting. Check for any specific regulations.
Remember, when prospecting for gold, always be aware of current regulations, obtain any necessary permits, and respect private property rights and existing claims. Additionally, safety should be a priority, especially in isolated areas.
The San Gabriel Mountains, particularly the East Fork, are mentioned as having good gold prospects, but safety concerns arise when prospecting alone in areas like San Bernardino. In 2014, the East Fork area became a national monument, prohibiting location activities, though enforcement may be limited.
Surprisingly, gold can also be found in the Santa Ana Mountains, despite it being a densely populated region. Southwest of Los Angeles, near the Orange County and Riverside County border, is highlighted as an optimal mining location. Conflicting information regarding the legality of panning in the San Gabriel Mountains raises uncertainty for some prospectors.
Concerns about National Monument designations affecting prospecting activities are discussed, with emphasis on the importance of checking with managing agencies for specific regulations. The complexity of mineral withdrawals and ownership changes is explained, emphasizing that prospecting rights depend on individual land management policies. Despite challenges, recommendations for gold prospecting in areas like the Motherlode/Sonora region without the need for permits are provided. Practical advice includes using 1800s mining maps, cross-referencing roads, and leveraging online resources like Google Earth for prospecting location research.
The discussion extends to mining clubs, with a cautionary note about specific club claims and a preference for organizations like AMRA. The Land and Mineral Records database (LR2000) is suggested for online prospecting information, but its potential lag in updates is acknowledged.
Southern California is acknowledged as challenging for gold prospecting, with specific locations like Big Bear, Julian, and Santa Clarita mentioned. Suggestions to visit the Keyesville open claim area below Lake Isabella’s main dam and guidance on prospecting in BLM/USFS land that has not had minerals withdrawn or been redesignated are provided.
The historical context of gold mining in Southern California, dating back to Spanish and Mexican mining operations, is explored. The abundance of public land in the Santa Ana Mountains, within the Cleveland National Forest, is highlighted, offering opportunities for prospecting, provided proper protocols are followed and the land is not already staked.
