[header] How to prospect for gold [title] Determine where prospecting is permitted. [step] There are a number of rules about prospecting, so make sure you familiarize yourself with the regulations before starting. [substeps] Obtain permission from the landowner to prospect on privately owned land. 
Avoid national parks, which are all closed to prospecting. Consult the forest service and the united states bureau of land management (blm) to see if certain parcels of land are open for prospecting.