The Ouachita National Forest is open for recreational gold prospecting and roch hounding. Just contact the park ranger for permission. The gold is widely scattered but quartz crystals are abundant. \nAbout 12 miles s.w. of Hot Springs there has been a notable amout of gold found. \nVisit this site  http://www.goldprospectors.org/\nYou will find links to lots of info you will find helpful. Good Luck!!