Enjoy Gold Panning in the American River and learn about the historic California Gold Rush

January 24th, 1848 is an important date in the history of California. It is the date when gold was first discovered by James W. Marshall at Sutter's Lumber Mill in Coloma. It was not long before when people started flocking to Placerville, the nearest city to Coloma in search of gold with high hopes—and they did not get disappointed! Early prospectors could just pluck the gold from the stream. Because the Gold Rush runs through El Dorado County, gold panning is a popular activity here. A modern-day Gold Rush has unfolded in El Dorado County as people from all over the world are coming here in search of gold. If you want to learn about the history and events that led up to this incidental discovery and find gold, you should visit El Dorado County for Gold Rush tours and gold panning in the American River.

 

 Where to find gold in the American River

When you have got a pan or two, it’s time to go gold panning and get a little dirty. The best place to find gold is in a creek than a fast-moving part of the river—around forks or at the tributaries. Before you start panning, make sure that the area you are going to is not already claimed. If you want to pan in the middle fork of the American River, take a look around the Michigan Bluff area. The south fork also provides good opportunities to find gold. Lessons are also provided by experts to help you brush up on your gold panning techniques.

There’s much more to explore!

Overlooking the beautiful river canyon is California's first historic monument and the final resting place of James Marshall—the Marshall Monument. The statue looks down on the American River and points to the site of the gold discovery. Visitors coming to El Dorado County for gold panning also have the opportunity to take a walk around the museum at the globally popular Gold Rush Park and visit the Gold Bug Mine to know more about the history of California Gold Rush and what led to its discovery. You can enjoy hikes and picnics with your family under the riparian oak woodlands. Living History Day, and other special events are also planned regularly throughout the year to add more fun to your visit.

Enjoy Gold Panning in the American River and learn about the historic California Gold Rush—Visit El Dorado County!