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Recreational Gold Prospecting
Panning for gold is definitely alive and well in Indiana. Gold is not a naturally occurring metal in Indiana. Instead, it was
slowly relocated here from Canada by the glaciers. As such, you will not get rich finding gold in Indiana. But gold prospecting is a great hobby that many people and families enjoy. These resources should help you get out and hopefully, find some gold for yourself.
State Links
Resources
- Gold locations in Indiana (Where to pan for gold)
- Gold and Diamonds in Indiana by W.S Blatchley
- Gold and Diamonds in Indiana—an update by J.R. Hill, with historical contributions by W.S. Blatchley
Gold Prospecting Clubs in Indiana
- Central Indiana Chapter of the GPAA
- Southern Indiana Chapter of the GPAA
Things to remember when panning for gold:
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Gold prospectors are required to follow the rules under the general license to legally pan for gold. You can find the rules for the general license in the two following documents:
- If you comply with the general license, you do not need a Construction in a Floodway permit. The general license acts as your permit.
- The general license does not give you the right to trespass. GET PERMISSION!
- Properties such as State Forests, National Forests, State Wildlife properties require an additional free permit so contact them prior to prospecting on state lands.
- The rules are slightly different on Navigable Waters so check the Navigable Waterways roster by clicking here.