New Hampshire's nickname may be The Granite State, but it has a bit of gold tucked away, too. Recreational panning is allowed on public properties throughout the state, including White Mountain National Forest, so you may have some luck if you have the right equipment and know where to look. The amount of gold found in the state's rivers ranges in size from what looks like coarse sand to the size of a pearl. Striking it rich isn't likely, but you may come away with a nugget or two.
Find a promising location. New Hampshire's Department of Environmental Services suggests the Wild Ammonoosuc River, Tunnel Brook and the Dead Diamond River.
Secure the best spot on the river by sampling different areas. Test one portion of the river, then move a few feet away to try a new area. The Gold Fever Prospecting website suggests standing in the river in water that is deep enough to get a good sample, or enough to justify wearing wader boots. Fast-moving water will help keep your water clear as you're trying to see into it for gold, but don't stay in water that is moving too fast.
Scoop up a portion of material from the river; it will consist of dirt, gravel, mud or clay and, hopefully, gold. Use a sieve to filter out the larger rocks.
Put the collected material into your pan and submerge it slightly. Slosh the water around, rinsing away the lighter dirt. Repeat this step as necessary until all the excess material is gone. Any gold will sink to the bottom and you'll be able to pick it out.
