The Orange County 49er's, inc. Is a non-profit organization for those interested in gold prospecting and mining, and is ideal for those just beginning, or experienced prospectors. There are over 195 members in California and elsewhere. One of the many benefits of belonging to The OC49er's is we have members at all stages of experience and expertise.

Group outings are fun for individuals or the entire family. It can also be much more rewarding prospecting with a group because you can see hands on how and where to find gold. Our gold claims are reserved for the members and are not used by thousands of prospectors each year.


Meetings on the third Tuesday of each month:

at 7:30 pm
“The Woman’s Club”
9501 Chapman Avenue,
Garden Grove, California


Click on link below for a
Membership Application

Non-members can attend one meeting and one outing prior to joining. Membership is $55 per year with a one-time $55 initiation fee.

We currently have 13 claims in Northern and Southern California. They are both wet and dry claims and all are in known gold bearing areas.

The 49er’s monthly outings are held on the last full weekend of each month. Pot luck dinners are rather common occurrence and occasional game of bingo and cards may be played.
An experienced member will usually lead the outing and can demonstrate equipment and techniques, plus answer questions. We usually have several serious miners/prospectors at each outing, some with extensive mining claims experience. Recent and planned outings include metal detecting, dry-washing, sluicing, panning, dredging and claims work not to mention one of our favorite—gold panning contests.
We publish a monthly newsletter for members (The Golden Aura). Hope to see you at our next meeting and happy prospecting!