This may be due to population, but I've spent a solid few hours just walking around looking for Ore's, mostly in Dun Morough, because that's usually the most plentiful zone, but I rarely find any.
Walking through the Wendigo cave, through the Grizzled Den, continuing on to the Quarry. Using that path one time through I am lucky to find 2 or 3 Copper Ore, and then hope no one else is taking it before I am able to get there.
Ive talked to many in-game miners who feel the same, so I know it isn't just me. At least take this into consideration, please.