The southwestern corner of Oregon is well-known for its rich history of gold mining. A bit further north were some other documented gold occurrences. And while they aren’t as famous, these are still good areas to find gold today.
Both of these sites are a short distance from Cottage Grove. And both have been withdrawn from mineral entry, which means that the ground is open to the public for casual prospecting of gold and other minerals. The sites we will be discussing today are Brice Creek and Sharps Creek.
Brice Creek
Gold can be found all throughout Brice Creek, but most of it is now claimed up. There are some locations that are open to the public for casual gold prospecting at the Hobo Camp Campgrounds. This means that the area is open for anyone to do some basic panning without any concerns about being on claims, private property, etc.
To get there, go southeast of Cottage Grove, past Dorena Lake and continue up into the mountains. It’s approximately 26.5 miles from Cottage Grove to arrive at Hobo Camp. There is a pit-toilet and about 5 campgrounds here. During the weekend it’s likely to fill up, but weekdays and during the off-season you shouldn’t have any trouble finding a spot.
Head back down the road and you can also try your luck at the Cedar Creek Campground and Lund Park Campground. These areas are also open to casual prospecting and could also produce some decent color in your pan.
The gold here can be nice and coarse textured with even a little nugget possible. Gold deposits are replenishes with heavy storm activity and spring runoffs. It’s a beautiful place to spend and afternoon with a gold pan.
Also Read: Gold Panning on the Sixes River
And: Blue River Mining District | Willamette Valley Gold
Sharps Creek
Just over the ridge from Brice Creek is another noteworthy area that is worth checking out. The Sharps Creek Recreation Area has long been a favorite for gold prospectors in this area.
Access is similar to getting to Brice Creek, except you will turn south and go across the bridge at Culp Creek. In a few short miles you will arrive at the Recreation area.
Gold was first discovered here way back in 1858. The gravels were quite rich and produced considerable gold, but more importantly, this strike was what eventually led to the discovery of the Bohemia Mining District. Miners poured into this area to try their hand at striking it rich, although it took a few years before things really got established.
This area is still productive even 160 years later! To be successful you will need to process plenty of gravel. I recommend getting down and really cleaning out those bedrock cracks. A strong back is required to move heavy rocks and boulders out of the way, but the effort will be worth it.
There is nice gold to be had here. Sharps Creek is still one of the best prospecting locations in the Cascade Range.
