California Gold Claims Logo

Gold Claim Buying Guide

Everything you need to know about buying, verifying, and maintaining gold mining claims in California. From beginner guides to expert tips, we've got you covered.

Why California Rivers Are Still Gold Mines in 2025
May 20, 202511 min read

Why California Rivers Are Still Gold Mines in 2025

Despite 170+ years of mining, California's rivers continue to produce impressive gold finds. Learn why natural replenishment, improved technology, and rising gold prices make river claims more valuable than ever.

gold in California riversriver gold miningplacer gold deposits
Read Full Guide

All Buying Guides

How to Buy a Gold Mining Claim in California (Step-by-Step Guide)
May 15, 202512 min read
Buying a gold mining claim in California is easier than you think — but there are pitfalls to avoid. In this guide, we break down the legal, logistical, and on-the-ground steps to acquiring your own slice of golden ground.
how to buy gold claimmining claim for sale Californiastep-by-step
What Is a Placer Mining Claim? (And Why They're Ideal for New Prospectors)
May 10, 20259 min read
If you're looking for hands-on gold recovery, placer mining claims are the way to go. These surface-level claims are ideal for weekend warriors, family miners, and first-timers.
placer mining claimgold claim typesbeginner gold prospecting
Top 5 Gold Mining Counties in California (2025 Edition)
May 5, 202510 min read
From the ancient riverbeds of Sierra County to the rugged canyons of Siskiyou, these five counties are California's richest for modern-day prospectors.
best counties to mine gold in Californiagold claims for sale California
Recently Sold Gold Claims and What They Tell Us About the Market
April 28, 20258 min read
In April 2025 alone, over a dozen 20-acre gold claims sold across the western U.S., many under $5,000. What does this say about demand, availability, and future price movement?
sold mining claimsmining claim price trendsgold market 2025
How to Verify a Mining Claim Before You Buy (Avoid These Red Flags)
April 22, 202511 min read
Before wiring money or staking your dreams on a gold claim, make sure the paperwork's solid. This article shows you how to verify a claim on BLM's MLRS system.
verify gold mining claimBLM searchfake claims
20-Acre Claims: Why This Size Is the Sweet Spot
April 15, 20257 min read
Why are so many claims 20 acres? It's not just a legal maximum for individuals — it's also the most manageable size for small-scale miners.
20 acre mining claimbest size for mining claim
BLM vs Forest Service Land: Where Can You Actually Mine?
April 8, 202510 min read
Not all public land is open to mining. This article explains the difference between Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service policies, and how they affect your access.
BLM vs forest servicewhere to mine gold legallymining access
Why Trinity River Claims Keep Selling Fast
April 1, 20258 min read
Multiple Trinity River gold claims sold on eBay in April 2025 — and it's no accident. With over 1,500 feet of rich river frontage, easy road access, and a long history of placer mining.
Trinity River goldclaims for sale Trinity CountyCalifornia gold hotspots
The Gold Claim Buyer's Checklist (Free Download)
March 25, 20256 min read
Don't go claim shopping blind. We put together the ultimate 10-point checklist you can download and print — covering legal docs, GPS inspection, access rights, water rights, and more.
gold claim checklistfree mining guidehow to buy gold land
eBay Gold Claims: Are They Legit?
March 18, 20259 min read
eBay has become a surprising hotspot for mining claim sales. But are they real? Are they legal? And what should you watch out for? We analyze real sold listings and seller reputations.
buy gold claim on eBayeBay mining scamslegit mining sellers

Get Gold Claim Updates

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest gold claim listings, market trends, and exclusive buying guides.