USA/Oregon/Rogue River
Wild & ScenicHellgate CanyonRecreational Zone

ROGUE RIVER

Made famous by Zane Grey, the Rogue is a powerful, deep river. It flows through the Klamath Mountains, cutting through ancient lode deposits. The gold here is often coarse and "ragged," indicating local sources.

Rogue River Canyon
LOCATION: HELLGATE CANYON

Dredging Permits

Oregon allows recreational suction dredging (unlike California), but it is strictly permitted. You need a **DEQ 700-PM Permit** to operate a dredge or highbanker in the river.

The "Recreational Zone": A specific stretch near Gold Hill is reserved for recreational mining. Check the latest closures for salmon spawning seasons.

Grants Pass

The hub for prospectors. Several parks along the river offer day-use panning. Try **Tom Pearce Park** for easy access.

High water

The Rogue is big water. Accessing the gravel bars requires a boat in many places. Jet boats are common transport here.

Moss Mining

During high water, the moss on the canyon walls acts like miners moss. Scrape clean the bedrock above the waterline for flood gold trapped in the moss.

Tactical Intel: Black Sand Layers

The "Paystreak" here is often indicated by heavy concentrations of **black sand**. Dig test holes on the bars. If you hit a distinct black line in your profile, THAT is where the gold is sitting. Don't stop until you hit bedrock or false bedrock (clay).

Indicator: Black Sand Line
Tech: Test Pits

The Digger's Code

  • Backfill all holes before you leave.
  • Pack out all your trash.
  • Respect fence lines and gates.

Legal Disclaimer

Land access rights, safety conditions, and public fossicking zones change. You are solely responsible for verifying regulations with local authorities (DOC/Council/BLM) and assessing river safety before visiting. Paystreak.io accepts no liability for injury, fines, or trespassing. Never dig on private land without explicit permission.

✓ Information last verified: January 2026