Gem Mining, Gold Panning & Rockhounding in Oregon
Where can you go gem mining in Oregon? We list 4 sites in Oregon (2 rockhounding / fossil sites, 2 gold panning sites), including Fossil Digging Site (Fossil, OR) (Fossil, OR), Sharps Creek Recreation Site (Lane County, OR), Sunstone Collection Area (Lake County, OR).
Listings come from operators' official websites, OpenStreetMap, the federal RIDB database and the Bureau of Land Management.
Verify before visiting. Hours, fees, access and collecting rules change, and some listings come from community-edited data. Call or check the operator's official page before you go. Details we could not confirm are marked "call to confirm".
Gold Panning Spots in Oregon (2)
Sharps Creek Recreation Site
Gold panningLane County, OR · Recreation Information Database (RIDB)Yellowbottom Recreation Site
Gold panningLinn County, OR · Recreation Information Database (RIDB)
Rockhounding & Fossil Sites in Oregon (2)
Fossil Digging Site (Fossil, OR)
Rockhounding / fossil siteFossil, OR · OpenStreetMapSunstone Collection Area
Rockhounding / fossil siteLake County, OR · Bureau of Land Management
FAQ
How many gem mining and rockhounding sites are in Oregon?
This directory lists 4 in Oregon: 2 rockhounding / fossil sites, 2 gold panning sites.
Can I keep what I find in Oregon?
At pay-to-dig mines, usually yes, under the mine's own rules. On BLM land you may generally collect reasonable amounts for noncommercial use. Rules for state parks, national forests and private land differ, so check with the manager.
Also see: Pay-to-Dig Gem Mines · Gold Panning Spots · Rockhounding & Fossil Sites · Mine Tours · Gear checklist