Gold was discovered on the South Yuba River in June of 1848 at Rose’s Bar, and some gold panners are still getting lucky today. All are welcome to try their luck at gold panning along the river with pans and hands only. Interested in trying your hand at Gold Panning? When you visit Bridgeport in South Yuba River State Park this summer, be sure to stop by the troughs near the Visitors Center.

Demonstrations 

Demonstrations are held every Saturday and Sunday in the summer and at special events as staffing permits. Supplies may be purchased at the Visitor Center.

Summer Hours (Memorial Day – Labor Day)
12 noon – 2 pm at Bridgeport

Free; donations welcomed

No demonstrations the weekend of the Nevada County Fair- come join us at the fair for gold panning in August.

Docents will demonstrate how to pan for gold in our troughs which are very likely to yield a bit of gold for most everyone. Practice in the troughs, then try your hand in the river. Remember, only pans and hands allowed in the park.

Malakoff Diggins SHP 

Guided gold panning demonstrations and opportunities are offered on summer Saturdays, as staffing permits, at the troughs across from the Visitors Center.