Dig into California’s gold rush history with a three-day prospecting adventure that offers hands-on fun and the chance to unearth your own treasures. Discover what makes 3 Day Dig a standout gold panning experience.
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 days (full program)
Fitness Level
Moderate physical activity, including standing and digging for extended periods
Wildlife
History
California’s gold rush started in 1848, transforming local towns into bustling hubs of prospectors and merchants.
Conservation
The operation practices eco-friendly prospecting to preserve the river’s natural flow and habitat.
California Gold Panning
Dig into California’s gold rush history with a three-day prospecting adventure that offers hands-on fun and the chance to unearth your own treasures. Discover what makes 3 Day Dig a standout gold panning experience.
California Gold Panning operates in Jamestown, California, in the heart of Gold Country. California Gold Panning offers guided sluicing and gold panning experiences for families and prospectors. Trip options include one-hour, two-hour, three-hour, and four-hour family sluicing and panning sessions, a full-day dig (9am to 5pm), and multi-day prospecting packages (two-day and three-day digs). All necessary boots and gear are provided for the sluicing and family special sessions; guests are advised to bring water and a snack.
The full-day and multi-day digs focus on extensive sluicing, panning, and manual prospecting with hands-on instruction. California Gold Panning emphasizes safe, instructional outdoor activities suitable for families, beginners, and more experienced prospectors seeking hands-on discovery. The business operates tours and digs at creek and placer locations near Jamestown, drawing on the region's historic gold-mining heritage. Pricing, booking details, and logistical information are available directly from the business; schedules may vary by season. California Gold Panning staff provide practical instruction on panning technique, sluice setup, and material processing during each session. The combination of equipment-provided family specials and longer digs offers visitors a range of outing lengths and intensities. As a local Jamestown operator, California Gold Panning delivers accessible, equipment-inclusive gold panning and sluicing experiences designed to teach prospecting skills and create memorable outdoor adventures.
Location
Jamestown, CA
Located in historic Gold Country
Operating Time
Full-day & hourly
Full-day dig runs 9am–5pm
Family-Friendly
Family specials
Boots and gear provided
Trips Offered
7 experiences
From 1-hour to 3-day digs
Reserve a family special, full-day dig, or multi-day prospecting package — equipment provided for family sessions, bring water and a snack and get ready to learn real prospecting skills.
Bring waterproof footwear
Waterproof boots or waders help keep your feet dry and comfortable during the panning process.
Start early in the day
Morning tends to have less boat traffic and better light for photography.
Dress in layers
Weather can change quickly in the mountains; wear moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
Handle all minerals carefully
Use provided tools to gently handle your finds to preserve their value.
Sturdy waterproof boots
Keeps your feet dry and provides good traction while working in wet conditions.
spring;summer;fall;winter
Wide-brim hat
Protects against sun exposure during long hours outdoors.
summer
Lightweight gloves
Protect your hands while handling tools and minerals.
Sunscreen
Avoid sunburn and skin damage during outdoor activity.