Member since 1984
John M.
“My wife and I love spending time at our LDMA camps, seeing familiar faces and making new friends. It feels like family every time we pull in.”
1976 – 2026
50 YEARS OF GOLD, DISCOVERY, AND ADVENTURE
Founded by George "Buzzard" Massie at Italian Bar in 1976 — the legacy lives on with you.
Our Journey
50 years of adventure, discovery, and fellowship
1976
LDMA Founded
George "Buzzard" Massie establishes the Lost Dutchman's Mining Association with a vision of gold, discovery, and adventure.
1976
First Outing – Italian Bar
Thanksgiving at Italian Bar, CA — the very first LDMA adventure on the historic South Fork Stanislaus River gravel bar.
1977
Italian Bar Acquired
First official camp purchased — 160 acres of patented mining claims rebuilt from the ground up on 1850s gold rush grounds.
Early 1980s
Stanton, AZ – Camp #2
Iconic ghost town purchased and lovingly restored by members into one of America's best-preserved gold camps.
1980s–1990s
Nationwide Expansion
Camps added across CA, AZ, OR, GA, NC, SC and beyond — thousands of acres of private gold-bearing claims.
2000s
Membership Boom
Grows to thousands of families enjoying year-round access, hook-ups, and legendary finds.
2010s
Modern Era
12 premier RV campgrounds, caretaker program, and the birth of signature events like DirtFest.
2026
50 Years Strong
Celebrating half a century of gold prospecting, camaraderie, and living history. The legacy continues with YOU.
The Legacy Lives
Real stories from real members who've been part of the 50-year journey
Member since 2006
Brandi B.
“If you haven't experienced an LDMA mining event, you're missing out. The gold, the fun, and the camaraderie is unmatched. We've made memories that will last a lifetime.”
LDMA Member
John Shannon
“When I joined Lost Dutchman's, I went to a few outings, had fun, met a lot of great people, and started planning my stays. Like a little kid, I can't wait to go back every time.”
Long-time Members
Paul & Cathy McGillis
“We laugh when we make our plans to stay at any of our ten 'second' homes. The camps are that special — we've been coming back for years and it never gets old.”
Featured LDMA Campgrounds
50 Years of Private Gold-Bearing Land — Start Your Adventure at These Iconic Sites
Italian Bar, California
The Original — First LDMA Camp (1977)
Built on the historic 1850s gold rush site along the South Fork Stanislaus River. Gold panning, sluicing, and river relaxation — many members find their first gold here.
Showers & RestroomsClubhouse & Fire Pit160 Patented AcresTrash & Dump Station
24997 Italian Bar Rd, Columbia, CA 95310
Explore Camp
Stanton, Arizona
The Flagship Ghost-Town Camp
Former 1800s outlaw hideout turned premier prospecting destination at the base of Rich Hill. History and gold everywhere you look.
132 Full HookupsLaundry & MuseumCraft RoomCommunity Events
15650 Stanton Rd, Congress, AZ 85332
Explore Camp
Burnt River, Oregon
Eastern Oregon Wilderness
Breathtaking river canyon views and peaceful prospecting. Spot deer, turkeys & bighorn sheep while you chase gold in the wild.
RV + Tent SitesShowers & Fire PitWater & TrashDump Station
28089 Burnt River Canyon Ln, Durkee, OR 97905
Explore Camp
Loud Mine, Georgia
Southern Gold Country
Tranquil wooded hills just 5 miles from Cleveland Town Square. Swim, fish, kayak, hike — and find gold in the streams and benches.
RV HookupsLaundry & Craft RoomGame Room & Fire PitFamily Activities
575 Abb Helton Rd, Cleveland, GA 30528
Explore Camp50th Anniversary Merch Spotlight
Exclusive gear to celebrate five decades
Lost Dutchman's 50th Anniversary - Women's Ideal Racerback Tank
$25.00
T-Shirt — Lost Dutchman's 50th Anniversary Vintage Miner Logo
$28.99
Lost Dutchman's 50th Anniversary Hoodie — Commemorative Desert Legend Graphic Hoodie
$48.99
Lost Dutchman's 50th Anniversary Crewneck Sweatshirt - Retro Miner Logo Pullover
$54.99
Stay in the Gold Rush – Join the 50th Anniversary List
Get early access to DirtFest 2026 tickets, limited-edition 50th merch drops, member stories, camp updates, and more. The legacy continues with you.
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Join 50 Years of Adventure
Whether you're a seasoned prospector or new to the gold fields, LDMA welcomes you. Become part of a legacy built on friendship, discovery, and the thrill of the hunt.