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Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting

Although the chances for locating gold or other valuable rocks or minerals on the Kisatchie are very rare, some may like to try their hands at finding minerals or panning for gold. These are the guidelines when rockhounding or gold panning in the Kisatchie National Forest. Rockhounding, the recreational removal of small quantities of rocks or fossils, and gold panning may take place on most of the forest – provided only small quantities of material are removed for personal, non-commercial…

  • Managed by: USDA Forest Service

Frequently asked questions

Is Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting reservable?

Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting is primarily first-come, first-served. Use the availability view to gauge how busy it is before you go.

Where is Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting?

See the map for Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting's exact location and directions.

How do I book a campsite at Rockhounding, Gold Panning, and Fossil Collecting?

Pick your dates on the availability calendar, then reserve through the official booking link. You can also set an alert and we'll notify you if a sold-out date opens up.

Check campsite availability