Gold Panning in Arizona

[looney05]

I am going to be taking a vacation to Arizona soon. I was wondering if it is legal for me to pan in dried up creek beds and rivers. Or if there are specific places for the general public to pan for recreational purposes.

 

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[Terry Soloman]

No, you cannot just pan anywhere as you might jump someone's claim. Lynx Creek in Prescott Valley is a GREAT place for you to start. Check out this thread:

http://www.treasurenet.com/forums/gold-prospecting/247094-lynx-creek-arizona.html#post2416895

 

[looney05]

thank you for the info

 

[lastleg]

looney not far from Prescott Valley there is a little strip of BLM with a little creek with color.
The paystreak is rather shallow. It used to be open to drive in but was fenced off last time I
was there. If it remains BLM just cross the bridge and walk down under it and start panning.

 

[Clay Diggins]

I'm pretty sure you are talking about Rose creek lastleg. That area is private land but the owners have allowed public access for hobby prospecting for years. It's a good place to get a little color.

Most of the easy access areas with gold are already claimed. You need to research what lands are open to prospecting before you go out. Prospecting another person's claim or private property is a big no no in the west. Stick to the public areas like Rose or Lynx creek until you learn to research land status.

Heavy Pans

 

[lastleg]

I hoped looney would do due diligence in locating this creek. If you draw them a map they won't
have to work for it like I did. I seem to have misplaced my Arizona topos but will find out if it
was Rose. If not I will get my belt.