hey johnedoe I've been going to the sumpter area for 2 years will be there again this summer, 2012. this area was hit hard by the old timers but there is still gold to be found. however there is alot of junk old tools, tin cans, nails, bullets, birdshot and the gold in the area is very small. not many nuggets have been found even in historic times. another thing i would like to point out most of the good ground is either claimed or is private property. make sure you know were you are at. the locals do not put up with mineral tresspass i cannot stress this last point enough. you are much better off spending some time there getting to know them and getting permission its alot healthier. btw the locals are great people you will not have a problem if you ask first many will say yes. good luck. highdesertranger