FAQ & Member Resource Center
This page contains helpful tools, links, and information for East Bay Prospectors members when planning outings, camping trips, claim visits, and prospecting adventures.
Fire Resources
Fire Activity App
We highly recommend you get the smartphone app called “WatchDuty”!
WatchDuty alerts you in real time when fires breakout.
River Flow & Water Levels
| Resource | Details |
|---|---|
| American River Flow Data | Current flow information for the North Fork and other sections of the American River. |
Dreamflow Dreamflows Flow Reports
Camping Information
Firewood Near Highway 120 (this is from 2020 timeframe)
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Supplier | John Whitkzy |
| Phone | 209-595-1593 209-281-3634 |
| Call Ahead | Call 2 days in advance between 10:00 AM and 9:00 PM. |
| Member Price | $3 per 5-piece bundle of oak firewood. No quantity limit for EBP members. |
Important: Tell John you are an East Bay Prospectors member.
John’s property is located on the right side of Highway 120, past Knights Ferry, approximately 1.3 miles beyond the South Tulloch Lake turnoff/Tulloch Road.
Claim Access & Road Conditions
Before visiting a claim or attending an outing, members should check for current road conditions, fire closures, weather hazards, and access restrictions.
- Check club website posts and email updates before leaving.
- Confirm whether outings have been postponed or canceled.
- Watch for road closures, washouts, fire restrictions, and weather-related access issues.
- Carry printed directions or saved offline maps when traveling to remote areas.
GPS & Mapping Tools
Mapping tools can be useful for locating claims, checking access roads, reviewing terrain, and monitoring nearby hazards.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Google Earth | Useful for viewing terrain, roads, fire overlays, and general claim area planning. |
| GPS / Offline Maps | Recommended for remote areas where cell service may be limited or unavailable. |
California Mining Regulations
Mining laws and regulations can change. Members are responsible for confirming current rules before prospecting, mining, dredging, camping, or accessing public lands.
- Verify current federal, state, county, and local regulations.
- Confirm whether permits are required.
- Respect claim boundaries and private property.
- Follow fire restrictions and environmental rules.
- Practice responsible prospecting and leave the area cleaner than you found it.
Prospecting Tips for Beginners
- Attend meetings and outings to learn from experienced members.
- Start with basic tools such as a gold pan, classifier, shovel, bucket, and snuffer bottle.
- Ask questions before buying expensive equipment.
- Learn how to identify black sand, lead, garnets, and other heavy materials.
- Practice panning at home before heading to the field.
- Bring water, food, sun protection, gloves, and sturdy footwear.
- Never prospect alone in remote areas if you can avoid it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if an outing is still happening?
Check the website, forum posts, and club emails before leaving. Outings may be postponed or canceled due to weather, fire conditions, road closures, or safety concerns.
Should I check fire conditions before a trip?
Yes. Always check wildfire activity, smoke conditions, and fire restrictions before heading to a claim, campsite, or outing.
Should I check river flow before prospecting?
Yes. River levels can change quickly and may create unsafe conditions. Always check flow data before working near water.
Can I bring guests?
Guest policies may vary depending on the outing, claim, or event. Check with club leadership before bringing guests to a club activity.
What should I bring to an outing?
Bring basic prospecting tools, food, water, weather-appropriate clothing, safety gear, and any required camping or day-use supplies.
Additional Resources
Additional helpful links, maps, FAQs, and trip-planning information will be added to this page as new resources become available.