How can I place gathering nodes beside my base?

You will be able to place your own resource plots in the world, depending on your level. To place the plots, go to the world map view and tap the 'build' menu icon. In the build menu (while looking at the map) you will only be able to use the Resource and Honor structure items (for doomsday event if you have this active).

Tap the 'Resource' option and then you can select from the plots available to you. Drag them to the map and place. It will cost 50 stone blocks to place each one, so you will need to earn these or buy them in the alliance shop first.