I have kids (responsibilities) but also think about something similar. I'm not into material things and try and prune possessions down to a minimum. I feel burdened by too much stuff and am not into hoarding.I feel like I owned most of the cars & beach houses etc in my past and did most of the things that I've wanted to and look fwd to an even more simple exsitance when the kids leave home. Would love to be a grey Nomad and RV around for a few years.
If I were to be a prospector today, I'd do Wyoming/Colorado in summer, Nevada in spring and fall, research in winter, somewhere warm, with a cold beer in hand. It would be OK for a single guy, not so great if you have a wife and kids.
I did it for 40 years off and on , working when I had too and Full time Rving and prospecting between its a great life till you get too old , I don't regret a minute of it.
The "cult" already exists. I know the Grand PooBah personally. I warn you, if you have a wife, girl- or boy- friend, a home, children.. you'll forget and forsake them for the cult of prospecting gold. Be hearty in your choice young greenhorn, and join the sourdough society of yellow lust!
I've had the dream of outfitting a van and spend the summers traveling the western part of the country and camping on blm land. Check out the link below. People sell everything they own and live full time in their rigs. I'm intrigued by the lifestyle but I'm not sure I could handle it full time.