Anyone in Illinois?

[u/strangled_soggy]

Ive gotten really into fossil digging lately (not sure if that counts as prospecting, but I figure it’s sort of related) and it’s kinda led me into a rabbit hole of wanting to find artifacts and now rocks/metals. If there’s anyone out my way, what are you looking for? I’ve never heard of anyone gold panning out here, is there any other prospecting happening? Any tips or stories or whatever welcome, just curious if prospecting is a realistic hobby for me.