I am very new to finding gold. I have no areas within several hours of my location in Texas, but we take a church trip to the mountains of New Mexico every year. What am I allowed to do in the Lincoln National Forest, near Ryodosa. I know I can pan and metal detect, but can I run a non powered sluice, or anything else. I have about 6 weeks before we leave.

Any help would be appreciated. I can't find any other info and the BLM and Forest Service will not return my emails.