Ga Mountains Guide

Panning for Gold in North Georgia

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Did you know that parts of North Georgia were once home to one of the USA’s earliest and largest gold rushes? Although the high-production days of the Dahlonega gold rush have long passed, there are many ways to sift through the rich history and lasting legacy of Georgia’s gold industry.

Panning for Gold in Georgia

Panning for Gold in Georgia

Whether you prefer to visit historic gold sites, venture into local gold panning attractions, or find your own places to pan for gold in North Georgia, there are great options for everyone to enjoy!

 

Gold in GA

Although Native Americans had known of gold in North Georgia since the 1700s, the natural resource went largely unnoticed until European settlers discovered gold near Dahlonega in 1828.

 

History of Gold in Georgia

After news spread of gold in the area, gold prospectors started arriving to stake their claims, and Georgia’s gold rush began in 1829. By the spring of 1830, 4,000 people were working along the Yahoola Creek alone.

 

Map of the Georgia Gold Belts from 1909

Map of the Georgia gold belts from 1909

 

During the Gold Lottery of 1832, Georgia distributed gold-producing land previously owned by Cherokees to eligible state residents. Tensions increased between the two groups, and though the Cherokees ultimately won a court case upholding their sovereignty, it did not stop the forced Cherokee Removal of 1838 on the Trail of Tears.

Meanwhile, the booming gold rush towns suffered from a limited circulation of currency, and in 1835, Congress authorized the federal Branch Mint at Dahlonega. The Dahlonega Mint opened in 1838 and produced almost 1.5 million gold coins until closing 31 years later.

The mining industry started to suffer when deposit yields dropped in the early 1840s. The 1848 discovery of gold in California then drove many miners to seek their fortunes out west. Georgia’s gold industry took a further blow during the Civil War, and the Dahlonega Mint closed in 1861.

Although the heyday of Georgia’s Gold Rush has long passed, commercial mining continued into the 20th century, and panning for gold is still popular today.

 

Historic Gold Sites in North GA

There are many gold-related historical sites throughout the North Georgia mountains.

 

Chestatee Diving Bell

The 1875 Chestatee River diving bell is a unique example of innovative gold mining methods from almost 150 years ago. Visit this free outdoor exhibit to see this diving bell that was hidden at the bottom of the Chestatee River for over a century.

 

Dahlonega Gold Museum

Exhibit at Dahlonega Gold Museum in North Georgia - photo ExploreGeorgia.org

Gold Mining Exhibit at Dahlonega Gold Museum, Georgia [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]


Visit the Dahlonega Gold Museum for a great introduction to the history of gold in Dahlonega and North Georgia. The museum is located literally in the middle of Dahlonega’s town square in the former Lumpkin County Courthouse. The courthouse was built in 1836 and is one of the oldest courthouse buildings in Georgia.

 

Historical Markers in North Georgia

As you travel through North Georgia’s gold country, note (or stop at) the numerous gold-related historical markers along the way, including Gold Diggers Road, Findley Ridge, and more.

 

Gold Attractions in North Georgia

Enjoy a fun family activity and the potential to strike it rich! These local gold panning attractions make it easy to experience the thrill of panning for gold in North Georgia.

 

Gold Mine Exhibits with Gold Panning Attractions in North GA

These attractions include gold mining exhibits in addition to gold and gem panning.

 

Consolidated Gold Mine

Consolidated Gold Mine Dahlonega, GA

Consolidated Gold Mine Dahlonega, GA [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]


Consolidated Gold Mine in Dahlonega GA was founded in 1896 and is the largest hard rock gold mine east of the Mississippi. Enjoy mine tours, gold panning, gemstone mining, and gem cutting in this mine that goes 200 feet underground! Watch your guide demonstrate how miners blasted quartz veins to uncover huge deposits of gold at Consolidated Mine, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

 

Crisson Gold Mine

Crisson Gold Mine Georgia was established in 1847 as an open-pit gold mine and was in commercial operation until the 1980s. View their antique equipment, including a 130-year-old stamp mill (rock crusher) still used for crushing quartz rock containing gold. For those looking to take their gold panning hobby to the next level, Crisson Gold Mine is the largest dealer of mining equipment in the southeast.

Enjoy gold panning, gem grubbing, wagon rides, and bring lunch to enjoy on their picnic tables. Plus, if you think you may have found gold on your property, bring your own quartz and use the rock crusher to see if you have gold on your own property (inquire about current pricing and availability).

 

Gold Panning Attractions in North GA

How to panning for gold Dahlonega Ga

Learn How to Pan for Gold and Gems [photo ExploreGeorgia.org]

These gold panning attractions allow visitors to purchase a pre-filled bucket of gems and gold. Take your bucket to their panning/sifting areas to search for treasures in your bucket.

 

Aska Mining Company

Aska Mining Company is located on the Toccoa River in Blue Ridge and offers gold panning, gem mining, river floats (Toccoa River tubing), a gift shop, and a café. The veteran-owned business provides a 10% discount for active and retired veterans, law enforcement officers, and first responders.

 

Dukes Creek Gold & Ruby Mines

Pan for gold and gems at this mine and shop for local treats in the gift shop. Gold comes from nearby Dukes Creek – the site of the first major Gold Rush in the USA.

 

Gold’ n Gem Grubbin’

NOTE: the Mining and Camping location is closed until further notice, but gold buckets and gem bags may still be purchased in their online store.

Gold’ n Gem Grubbin’ was North Georgia’s last commercially operating Gold Mine. Formerly a productive part of the Loud Mine, which supplied $2M of the $7M of minted gold bullion coins at the nearby Dahlonega Mint.

 

Outpost Gold and Gem

Outpost Gold and Gem Helen GA

Outpost Gold and Gem Helen GA

Search for treasure in your choice of buckets of gold, gemstones, and fossils. Shop at the on-site Southwestern outpost and gift shop.

 

Talking Rock General

Enjoy gold panning, gemstone mining, and fossil digs. Gift shop and ice cream on-site.

 

Gold Panning in North Georgia

There are many places and ways to find gold in the North Georgia mountains. Find the option that best suits your group’s preferences and head out to strike gold!

 

Public Gold Prospecting Locations in North GA

Some local prospectors will tell you that there is gold in about every creek and river in North Georgia. Indeed, Georgia’s gold can be found along gold belt deposits in many areas of North Georgia, including:

  • Rivers: Chattahoochee River, Chestatee River, Etowah River, Little River, Nacoochee River, Tallapoosa River
  • Creeks: Baggs Creek, Calhoun Creek, Canton Creek, Cavender Creek, Coosa Creek, Dukes Creek, James Creek, McClusky Creek, Sixes Creek, Tesnatee Creek, Yahoola Creek, plus many other unnamed creeks and tributaries of the rivers
  • Mines: most area mines are no longer commercially mining for gold, but some do offer tours or special dig events

 

Dukes Creek Panning for Gold in Georgia Mountains

Dukes Creek was an early hot spot for gold panning in the Georgia Mountains

Recreational panning for gold is allowed in stream beds in the National Forests as long as significant stream disturbance does not occur and when only a small hand shovel or trowel and a pan are used.

Note that when panning within the US Forest Service, you may not collect for commercial purposes, and in-stream sluices and suction dredges are not allowed. Visit the US Forest Service website to learn more about gold panning, rockhounding, and fossil collecting in the Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forest.

To determine whether a stream’s mineral rights are publicly or privately owned or if there are any restrictions, call the Blue Ridge District Ranger at +1 (706) 745-6928 or the Chattooga River District Ranger at +1 (706) 754-6221.

Gold prospecting maps may help save time finding suitable gold panning locations. Learn more about Georgia gold maps from Gold Trek Maps and Gold Maps.

 

Private Gold Prospecting Locations in North GA

More serious gold hunters should consider joining one of the gold prospecting associations. Membership in these clubs usually includes access to private leased lands where members can search for gold. Visit the websites of Weekend Gold Miners, Gold Prospectors Association of America, or Lost Dutchman’s Mining Association to learn about the unique benefits of membership in these clubs.

Always follow local laws and respect personal property rights. Do not search for gold on private property without explicit permission.

 

Cabin Rentals Where You Can Pan for Gold

These North Georgia mountain rental properties allow budding prospectors to pan for gold right at home!

 

Dog-Friendly Renovated Cabin on Chestatee River
Dog-Friendly Rental on Chestatee River includes Several Pans for Gold Panning

Dog-Friendly Rental on Chestatee River includes Several Pans for Gold Panning

The Chestatee River Retreat vacation rental in North Georgia is located directly on the Chestatee River and is large enough to sleep 12 people. Includes several gold pans you can use to pan for gold directly on the property (at least 2 guests have already found gold at the property!). This location near Dahlonega is within 5 miles of local attractions, including a vineyard and zoo.

 

Restored Vintage Farmhouse Cottage on Horse Farm with Creek

The Flying Duck Farmhouse is a restored vintage farmhouse on 160 private acres at the foot of the Three Sisters Mountains. Enjoy a short walk to the large deck overlooking a stream — a perfect spot to pan for gold or have evening cocktails in the hammock or rocking chairs.

Restored Vintage Farmhouse Cottage Rental with Stream to Pan for Gold

Restored Vintage Farmhouse Cottage Rental with Stream to Pan for Gold

The location is less than 4 miles from downtown Dahlonega, near multiple vineyards and local attractions (Consolidated Gold Mine is 3.3 miles away). No smoking, no parties, and no pets are allowed in this North Georgia rental.

 

North Georgia Gold Map

Use the interactive map below to find unique gold attractions in the Georgia mountains.

 

Additional North Georgia Gold Resources

Use these additional resources for gold panning in North Georgia!

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Panning for Gold in North Georgia

Panning for Gold in North Georgia

What is your favorite place to hunt for gold in North Georgia?

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88 Responses

  1. Anna says:
    June 16, 2021 at 9:47 am

    This sounds like a really fun adventure. I never considered panning for gold on a vacation, but now that I know it’s an option, this is definitely something to consider for myself and my family.

    I really appreciate the planning details which provide useful information. The short history lesson adds even more interest! 

    Mostly, I especially like that you have included the dog-friendly cabin suggestions. 🙂

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      June 16, 2021 at 12:02 pm

      Hi Anna, I think a lot of people are surprised that panning for gold is still something that people can do today. I’m so glad to hear you found some useful information here and I hope you find a great cabin for your family (including the dog!). 

      Reply
  2. Joseph Stasaitis says:
    June 7, 2021 at 2:15 pm

    I never realized that there were gold sites in the Georgia Mountains. I was just aware of the Appalachian Trail. I appreciate learning about Dahlonega Gold Museum as I enjoy history and museums very much. Your article provides plenty of valuable information on where to prospect for gold. It’s also good to know about the prospecting maps and available cabins. Lots of exhibits and attractions to check out as well. You have provided a wealth of information in this article.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      June 8, 2021 at 11:11 am

      Hi Joseph, I think a lot of people are surprised to learn of Georgia’s gold history. The Dahlonega Gold Museum is a great place to learn even more when you are in town for a visit!

      Reply
  3. AL. S. says:
    May 5, 2021 at 10:08 am

    Very interesting. I would not have thought Georgia was a place to pan for gold. As a kid I always went gold mining with my dad and this is something that I could definitely do with my kids. Georgia is very close to us, so a trip to try our hand at panning for gold would be fun. I did not know that panning for gold in streams in national parks was allowed. This is very good information to know. Thanks for all the information.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      May 5, 2021 at 12:45 pm

      Hi Al, Gold panning is allowed in the National Forests with a few exceptions, but I’m not sure that the same is true for National Parks. There are a lot of fun places to pan for gold in Georgia and you never know if you’ll be the next person to find a sizeable and valuable nugget!

      Reply
  4. Cynthia says:
    May 5, 2021 at 10:04 am

    I had friends who mined for gold here in Maine but I had no idea about gold located in Georgia.  It’s a fun hobby that many enjoy but I don’t know anyone who’s “struck it rich”!  Nonetheless, I think it would be fun to see what I can find.  I would love to visit Dukes Gold and Ruby Mines because, honestly, who needs gold when I can mine for rubies?  Or at least buy some in the gift shop… Thanks for posting!

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      May 5, 2021 at 12:43 pm

      Hi Cynthia, I have never earned much from the gold I’ve panned either, so it is good that it is still an enjoyable way to spend time with friends and family. 🙂 

      Reply
  5. Joyce Easton says:
    May 1, 2021 at 2:37 pm

    Thank you for this excellent idea of your article, to show the place where possible to find the God. I live here in the Philippines, and I heard my people doing exactly what you do there, but I believe we are not allowed to visit the panning area as a bit dangerous. But here in your article, it seems it’s good to visit and have a good adventure there. And to learn how to do panning of the gold in your area in North Georgia. Thank you so much for sharing.

    All the best,

    Joyce

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      May 2, 2021 at 10:32 am

      Hello Joyce! I would not recommend exploring just any old mine that you may find in the woods, but panning at the edge of a slow-moving river shouldn’t be considered too risky.

      If you’re interested in learning about recent explorations of mines in the USA, Brent Underwood has a fun YouTube channel called “Ghost Town Living” where he explores the ghost town Cerro Gordo, California. 

      Brent purchased the abandoned mining town a few years ago with the goal of restoring and rebuilding it into a resort town. His videos are a fun mix of exploring things that he finds on his property (old mines, old trails, ruins of old buildings, etc.) and sharing the history he learns about the area. Enjoy!

      Reply
  6. Lisa says:
    May 1, 2021 at 2:29 pm

    I lived in Atlanta for about ten years, and never had any idea about the rich gold mining history in North Georgia. This webpage seems very comprehensive. It makes me wish I had gone up north to check out the attractions when I was living nearby. I especially like that you have highlighted a few cabins to stay in up in the mountains. They seem very economical compared to cabins in Utah, where I live now. Have you ever panned for gold? And if so, did you ever find any? Is it enjoyable even when you don’t find any gold to spend the day in nature with hope in your heart that you will find something valuable? I can imagine that it is.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      May 2, 2021 at 10:20 am

      Hi Lisa, The gold on top of the capitol building in Atlanta was mined from Dahlonega, so even if the state’s history isn’t totally obvious, it is nice that it is there to enjoy. 🙂

      I have panned for gold at the tourist gold panning locations, but I have never taken my own equipment and panned for gold on my own in a river or stream. The tourist locations make it very easy to find gold — everyone gets to leave with their own vial of the gold they panned. The tourist locations aren’t likely to have the bigger nuggets though — you’ll want to go out on your own or to a group dig for the best chances of striking it rich!

      Reply
    • Tara says:
      March 5, 2022 at 6:54 am

      I’ve panned and used a small dredge in Northern California and in oregon where I’m from. Yes almost without fail we found gold when we were out. Mostly its a way for us kids who are all grown now to take our kids And spend a few days out with our dad. We use any excuse we can to hang with our parents now. Lol

      Reply
      • Alyce says:
        March 7, 2022 at 8:12 am

        Hi Tara, Thanks for sharing. I certainly understand the appeal of including different generations of family members when going out to leisurely pan for gold. What a great way to spend time with loved ones!

        Reply
  7. Geoff says:
    March 11, 2021 at 9:20 am

    This is a wonderful post.  This is so difficult from the usual holiday.

    I think that it would be a really good alternative to the usual breaks that I go on.  It would be such fun for anyone.  Families or groups of friends would have so much fun and laughter as they try to be the first to find some gold.

    A tour of the consolidated gold mine would definitely be one place I would want to visit.  The history and stories I’m sure would be fascinating.

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      March 11, 2021 at 6:08 pm

      Hi Geoff, The tour of the Consolidated gold mine is a great way to learn more about the local gold industry and it certainly makes for a unique way to spend time while on vacation!

      Reply
  8. Leahrae says:
    March 11, 2021 at 9:10 am

    I lived in Alaska for 22 years, and know all about the Alaska Gold rush.  But I suppose I never thought about one any where else.  So this was interesting information and a lot of parallels to the gold rush in Alaska.  Oh, it would be so relaxing and fun to stay in one of the cabins you have listed.  

    Reply
  9. MrBizOp says:
    November 30, 2020 at 1:11 pm

    This is a very well thought out article. I certainly learned a few things. I never knew about the trail of tears. Such a sad thing. I love that you used quick article navigation links. 

    I could take a page or two from your book for my own website. Absolutely professional. 

    Now I want to bring my wife and dog and go panning for gold…lol

    Wishing you success in all you do, Joshua Horton

    Reply
    • Alyce says:
      November 30, 2020 at 2:48 pm

      Hi Joshua, I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed the article and found the layout of the website to be helpful. Thanks so much for your feedback!

      Reply

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