1960 map of placer mines in South West Oregon

Here is a 1960 map of placer mines located in South Western Oregon.  The map is not the best and you cannot see stream or river names, but you can make out the general area where gold was being found.  (Click on map for full size image).

To see the full document that this came from with more info, click HERE.

To see where you can pan for free in this area on public land visit the BLM site HERE.

There are also some claims that can be worked for free such as the ones owned by CRME on the Chetco river, and you can visit their site HERE, although their site does not have a lot of information on how to get there.  I have been in contact with CRME and will be posting on their locations at a later date.

It would be worth looking into finding other free mining operations in the area if any exist, as this area of Oregon seems to have many gold bearing regions, along with the area of Northern California directly south.

Quartzville Mining District Map

This map from an old field trip brochure shows where gold has been found along the Santiam river, Green Peter reservoir, and in the immediate area.  They say to look where you've found gold before, so looking at old maps of old mining claims is worth the time.  See map below, or view it in the full document on page 100.  (Click on map for full size image).

It would be worth looking into where you can pan legally in this area today and if a permit is required.