Hey Cookie, & welcome to the site.
I'm not familiar with your area, but would suggest to Google your local area & add "nugget" to your search. Might come up with something...
I been to Eldorado(South West of you) last Easter & the creek there always gives up some colour when panning - very fine gold, but it's gold & it all adds up.
Not sure if that place is known to be nuggety
Good luck finding your first piece