What are the rules for panning for gold in the National Forest? And, where are the best places for panning for gold?
A. You can pan for gold recreationally on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and Forest Service lands without a permit, but it s your responsibility to know that you are on public and not private land. You will also want to avoid patented mining claims. Also keep in mind that you should consult with the Forest Service or BLM before undertaking any kind of activity that would result in ground disturbance.