California sites still gold mine for treasure ambitions

Nearly 200 years after the Gold Rush, prospectors like Julie Hanson are still searching for gold in California, drawn by the thrill of the hunt and the hope of finding treasure. The Stanislaus National Forest spans nearly 900,000 acres, and for some, its most valuable treasures are hidden beneath the surface. “Back in the 1850s, they were walking around picking the nuggets up off the ground,” Hanson said. Gold can still be found at the Lost Dutchman Italian Bar camp, where Hanson hopes her dreams will materialize. “Oh, I’m always excited. You never know when you are going to pull out your biggest piece. You never, never know,” Hanson said. Hanson makes the two-and-a-half-hour drive from her El Dorado County home almost every week. KCRA 3 is your home for California breaking news and weather. For your latest California news and weather visit: https://www.kcra.com/ For licensing inquiries: https://www.kcra.com/licensing