Mining Claims in New Mexico: 14,350 Active
New Mexico has 14,350 active federal mining claims on record with the BLM. 993 are placer claims — staked loose-deposit ground, mostly gold country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mining claims are there in New Mexico?
New Mexico has 14,350 active federal mining claims on record with the BLM — 13,231 lode claims (hard-rock minerals) and 993 placer claims (loose deposits like stream gold). Counts sync weekly from BLM MLRS.
Can I stake a mining claim in New Mexico?
Yes — any US citizen (or company) can locate a claim on open federal land: stake the corners on the ground, file a location notice with the county, and file with the BLM. Annual maintenance fees apply. The ground must not already be claimed or withdrawn, which is why checking existing claims first matters.
Can I collect rocks on a mining claim in New Mexico?
An active claim doesn't close the land — you can usually still hike and explore — but the claimed minerals belong to the claimant. Collecting them is taking someone else's property. Check whether a spot is claimed before you dig.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations, weather conditions, and access requirements before visiting any location. Information provided is based on community submissions and may not be current or accurate.
Counts computed from claim geometries intersecting New Mexico's boundary; BLM records claims by survey block, so border-area figures are approximate. Updated 7/15/2026 · official records at BLM MLRS.