Person panning for gold in a trough of water; holding a black pan.

Golden Beginnings: The History of Prospecting in Southern Nevada

Believe it or not, gold fever’s never left the West. The big rushes are a part of history now, but there’s still plenty of people still out there in the desert chasing fortune. Whether it’s flakes or nuggets, it’s all too common to see travelers throughout Southern Nevada and Northern Arizona trying their hand at prospecting. Because if they’re a little patient, and have luck on their side, they might just find something incredible.


This isn’t just about buried treasure or old ghost towns (but still look into those, trust us). Panning for gold mixes a hands-on adventure with a taste for local history. It creates the kind of stories that just get better and better around a campfire. So if you’re thinking about grabbing a gold pan yourself, here’s how it all ties together, especially if you’re passing through Meadview, AZ.

Person panning for gold in a black pan near a body of water.

Gold Fever

With gold in its blood, Southern Nevada is the place to be. Dating back to the 1800s, steamboat crews on the Colorado River famously stumbled across gold in El Dorado Canyon, and everything changed. Some local towns, like Goldfield and Rhyolite, exploded overnight as miners from all over the country showed up, trying to strike it rich. Rhyolite was booming so much that it even had electric lights, a stock exchange, and an opera house, that is, until the gold ran out. Now a ghost town, Rhyolite represents what was, and is still a fascinating place to explore.


Fast-forward to today, and you’ll still find people out there prospecting, more with metal detectors and sluice boxes than pickaxes of course. People still chase that thrill, and it’s not hard to see why.

The Gold Searchers of Southern Nevada

If you’re serious about gold prospecting, or are just curious, the Gold Searchers of Southern Nevada (GSSN) are a group dedicated to showing you the ropes. Over 500 acres of land in both Nevada and Arizona are claimed by this nonprofit club, with regular outings being hosted for members to dig in and share what they find.


GSSN loves its get-togethers, often having potluck dinners, gear demos, and raffle prizes. It’s a fun, low-pressure way to meet the various hobbyists interested in prospecting. 

Top Prospecting Areas

You’re probably wondering What are the top prospecting areas? There are several solid places around Southern Nevada and Northern Arizona that won’t guarantee you walk away with a fortune, but are still great spots. It’s important to note that there are public spots to search, as well as club-only claimed spots that clubs like GSSN manage. They include:


  • Johnnie District: Once a strong mining area, the Johnnie District is a favorite spot amongst gold searchers. GSSN has claims here, and their members often report finding flakes and small pickers.
  • El Dorado Canyon: Explore where it all began! Though much of the area is privately owned, some nearby sections still hold potential for careful panning.
  • Northern Arizona Claims: GSSN also manages claims just over the border in Arizona, not far from Meadview. These locations are consistent winners and are great for club outings.
  • Bullfrog Hills & Rhyolite: The Bullfrog District once made headlines for huge gold finds. Today, there’s still some potential for finding gold, especially near old tailings piles.
Man panning for gold in a river, using a blue pan and green sluice box. Sunlight on the water.

Big Finds and Bigger Stories

The million-dollar nuggets are pretty rare these days, but don’t let that stop you. Southern Nevada still has its share of golden moments, with some club members pulling out quarter-ounce nuggets! But if you ask anyone that’s out there, they’ll tell you why they really do it: for the hunt. 


Plus, the legends that come from prospecting make this one of the most epic hobbies to have. Tales of lost mines, old stashes buried by outlaws, and markers left behind in the rocks. Is it fact, or is it fiction? We’ll let you decide.


What You’ll Need

Here’s some essentials to bring on your gold adventure:


  • Gear: A pan, classifier, shovel, and a small sluice box will go a long way.
  • Club: While not required, joining groups like GSSN will help you learn quickly and access more claims.
  • Outing: To fully know whether or not it’s up your alley, you just need to go! Test your gear, ask questions, and maybe even find your first gold.

Your “Golden” Home Base: Meadview RV Park

Gold is still out there, but it isn’t just about finding something shiny. You’re stepping into tradition, learning the land, and spending some quality time outdoors doing something real. Whether you strike it rich, or just come back with a few flakes, it’s worth the trip and will make for a great story. While you’re here, plan on staying at Meadview RV Park, conveniently located near the Nevada-Arizona border.


Our park offers RV sites, cabins, bungalows, and tent sites, making us the perfect place to recharge after a day in the dust. Plus, we’re right near Lake Mead and the Grand Canyon’s western rim, so you’re not far from several other adventures. Pack your gear, and get ready for your journey. The desert’s full of stories, and maybe even a little gold. All you have to do is show up and start digging.