The GPS details per claim are in the book that comes via snail mail a week or so after you join. I've had no issues with the web site.

Does anyone know how long it takes to get the booklet/guide? Why aren't the boundary GPS coordinates on the website? I signed up 3 weeks ago and I'm still waiting. Thanks.

Generally get the new member kit in 2-3 weeks. If you don't get it in the next week, give the office a call.

As to boundaries, the book lays out the claims on a topographic section map with the claim shaded. They're working to get that online. Right now the system won't support that.

Thanks, appreciate the reply. Still haven't received it. Almost a month. Someone told me you have to pay the lifetime membership to get it. Not sure if that's accurate. I noticed a few claims online had the GPS boundary coordinates listed. I also noticed you can buy old copies on ebay.

Robert,

A simple phone call to the GPAA office would answer all your questions.
it's even a 1 800 551 9707

Bill

I received an e-mail from one of the local chapters. You can purchase the guide for $35. I believe you can also get the guide with an annual membership. Not sure why gps coordinates are not available on this website. I noticed a few claims, like 1% have the boundary coordinates. Not sure why it's not available on the website. Also not sure why I had to fight so hard to get this information. There should be an option to purchase the guide if you have a monthly subscription. Hope this helps other new members.

Kevin is the claims director, as well as doing several other jobs in the office. He devotes what time he can to that project, but the other responsibilities don't leave much time.

As to buying on ebay, as soon as that item is listed and seen by the office, it is supposed to be pulled. The guide is strictly for members. You also might end up with an older copy, and not have the current information. If a claim has been dropped, and you are caught prospecting on it, the owner can charge you with mineral trespass and or mineral theft. And those are federal beefs, not local.

You also won't have any new claim information on claims or properties added since it was printed.

I just looked at eBay listings for the guide, the newest one is 2014, and has been replaced by a newer edition. I know of two claims that have been dropped, that I've been to in the past, and no longer have access to as a member, nor do I have permission from the owners to prospect them.

I'll close by echoing William's comment, if you have a problem with your member benefits, or a beef, call the office, and see if it can be worked out. They try to keep everyone happy, but sometimes they are limited in what they can do.

Arthur, I just checked eBay today and there were 9 GPAA mining guides for sale. Some with an extra - small mining book.

Just sent an email to Kevin for clarification on policy now, as my information is from a few years ago. In the past they had a policy that the guide was association property since it listed association claims, that were for member use only.

We have enough problems with non members on claims as it is, don't need any more.

Heard back.,..they are going to start getting the listings pulled.

Good to know. Thanks. It costs enough for members, we should have some exclusive rights. Years ago I did manage to get an old one off eBay. I was a new member and was thirsty for all information possible being stuck here in the midwest far from the goldfields. It was fun to browse through and see how many places that had been available and all the stories and details. Helped me learn. Of course, when I actually get out there I'll learn a lot more.

The best way to double check coords is get the copy of the online filing of the location notice from the county office.

Google {NAME OF COUNTY} RECORDERS OFFICE. You can find all the maps for the Arizona Claims for Yavapai and Maricopa COunties. online.

From there, go to a map that has coords for the PLSS system.

Getting coords for the GPS claims is a common question. They are just not available online the way you want them. The printed guide has some, but then you need to go through the back issues of the pick and shovel gazette and the magazine to see the changes.

That is a bit more work than you probably want to do, but after doing that a little you'll be able to realize where the unclaimed land is and venture off the GPAA claims into unclaimed, open land to prospect on.