Robinson Park — Llano River Gold Panning

Robinson City Park sits on the Llano River approximately two miles west of downtown Llano on FM 152, with about 1,800 feet of river frontage. Visit Llano and regional guides list Robinson Park alongside Badu, Grenwelge, and Ash Street as official public river access where panning for gold is free. Geology: Fine placer gold flakes erode from Llano Uplift Precambrian rocks upstream and concentrate in inside bends, behind boulders, and in cracks along the pink granite shelf country between Llano and Kingsland. Expect small "colors," not nuggets. Pyrite is common. Prospecting tips: Work gravel after high water when black-sand streaks are exposed. Standard pan and classifier are sufficient. Check USGS gage 08151500 (Llano) for safe wading flows. Park hours and camping fees apply for overnight use; day visitors may access the riverbank for fishing and wading. Fill holes, pack out trash, and respect anglers and swimmers.