1. Alaska, USA

Where to Mine:
Alaska offers some of the best opportunities for gold prospecting. One popular spot is the Chicken Gold Camp & Outpost in Chicken, Alaska. They offer gold panning and gold dredging experiences.

Lodging:
You can stay at their rustic cabins, RV sites, or tent camping areas at the Chicken Gold Camp.

Transportation:
To reach Chicken, Alaska, you’ll likely fly into Fairbanks and then drive about 6-7 hours east. Car rentals are available at the Fairbanks airport. For tips on making the most of your journey, you might enjoy reading our road trip guide.

Meals:
Chicken Gold Camp has an on-site café that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring you’re well-fed during your gold-panning adventure. For more on dining options during your travels, check out our post on adventurous dining experiences.

2. California, USA

Where to Mine:
The American River in the Sierra Nevada foothills is another great location for gold prospecting. You can try panning for gold at locations like the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park in Coloma.

Lodging:
There are numerous accommodation options in Coloma, including camping at the park, staying in nearby lodges, or booking a bed and breakfast for a cozier experience. If you’re into boutique hotels, have a look at our boutique hotel recommendations.

Transportation:
Sacramento International Airport is the closest major airport. You can rent a car from there and drive to Coloma, which is about an hour away. For car rental tips, see our rental car guide.

Meals:
Coloma offers several dining options ranging from local diners to more upscale restaurants, ensuring you can enjoy meals before and after your mining adventures. Check out our list of great dining spots to enhance your experience.

3. Victoria, Australia

Where to Mine:
Australia is renowned for its gold rush history, and Ballarat in Victoria is a prime spot for gold prospecting. Sovereign Hill, a recreated gold rush town, offers gold panning experiences.

Lodging:
Stay in Ballarat’s various accommodation options, including hotels, motels, and bed and breakfasts that cater to tourists exploring the gold fields.

Transportation:
Melbourne Airport is the nearest major airport. From Melbourne, you can take a train or rent a car to Ballarat, which is about an hour and a half drive.

Meals:
Ballarat has a wide range of dining options, from cafes to fine dining, where you can enjoy meals that reflect the region’s heritage. Discover more about local culinary delights in our blog post.

4. Yukon, Canada

Where to Mine:
The Yukon Territory, particularly around Dawson City, offers a rich gold mining history and opportunities for gold panning. You can join organized gold panning tours with experienced guides.

Lodging:
Dawson City has various options, including hotels, lodges, and bed and breakfasts that reflect the charm of the gold rush era.

Transportation:
Fly into Whitehorse and either rent a car or take a domestic flight to Dawson City. Learn more about navigating remote locations with our tips.

Meals:
Enjoy meals at local eateries that offer a range of cuisines, including regional specialties that reflect the area’s history and culture. For insights on cultural food experiences, check out our post.

These links will provide more in-depth information to enhance your gold mining adventures and help plan a trip that includes not just the thrill of finding gold but also enjoying the journey and the places you visit!