SD Panning and MD'ing for nuggets

[Joe (Memphis)]

Hi, I was wanting to take my father (80 years old) to SD to do some panning and MD'ing for small nuggets on my next vacation. I have found out that no permits are required for pretty much anything smaller than a drege, so where do you start? I know I am probably looking to go to Custer or Fall River counties, but do you just look for state land and a stream, and break out the pan or what? Any info or links would be greatly appreciated, I don't know how much longer I'll have him, and I wanted to take him on a great trip. Thank you all. Joe

[Joe (Memphis)]

One more thing, I am not looking to "strike it rich" or anything. One nugget grain of rice size would be as good as anything. I just want him to have a good time. If anyone has any ideas for other or closer states, I am all ears, I am in Memphis. Thanks again. Joe

[TOWcritter]

Hi. I think it's great you're taking your dad panning. My dad is 79 and still in pretty good shape. You might want to try South Carolina or North Carolina. There are a few places that rent cabins and have REAL gold placer streams you can pan in. You don't have to take a hit or miss chance at panning a nugget that way, It's not to expensive either. Google "gold panning " and a link should be there some where. Good luck. I'm thinking about doing the same thing with my dad. I have a good set of pans and a Keene sluice. Throw in my MXT metal detector and I'm ready to hunt. Good Luck to you.

[Joe (Memphis)]

Thank you for the tip, I'll start looking there. 1 more thing, thank you for your service MARINE!

[TOWcritter]

Thank you too Sir!