Step into California’s Gold Rush history with a family-friendly 3-hour gold panning and sluicing adventure in Jamestown. Perfect for all skill levels, this hands-on experience offers real treasure hunting fun with all gear provided.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels including children; low-impact activity involving standing and light digging
Wildlife
History
Jamestown played a central role in California's 1849 Gold Rush and preserves much of that history today.
Conservation
The operation follows guidelines to minimize environmental impact, protecting waterways while allowing responsible gold panning.
California Gold Panning
Step into California’s Gold Rush history with a family-friendly 3-hour gold panning and sluicing adventure in Jamestown. Perfect for all skill levels, this hands-on experience offers real treasure hunting fun with all gear provided.
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 Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized during the activity by bringing enough water and light snacks.
Wear Waterproof Boots
Boots are provided, but wearing quick-drying socks ensures comfort throughout sluicing.
Arrive Early for Best Experience
Morning sessions offer calmer waters and a quieter setting for prospecting.
Protect Personal Belongings
Keep phones and valuables secure and away from water to avoid damage during sluicing.
Water Bottle
Hydration is key during outdoor activities.
spring
Sun Hat
Protect yourself from sun exposure while sluicing.
summer
Light Rain Jacket
Be prepared for unexpected showers without sacrificing mobility.
fall
Warm Layer
Keep warm during cooler months when spending time near water.
winter