WHO MAY LOCATE A MINING CLAIM?

Any citizen of the United States, a minor who has reached the age of discretion, a corporation, and non-citizens (aliens) who have declared their intention to become a citizen. (43 CFR 3832.1)

http://www.blm.gov/ca/st/en/info/iac/faqmc.html

Claimants who don't renew their claims annually lose their claims.