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Metal Detecting in State Parks

The reasonable use of metal detectors is permitted in many state parks. However, metal detecting is not permitted where this activity would conflict with a facility in use, nor is it permitted within fenced areas of swimming pool complexes.

Metal detecting on beaches and in lake swimming areas will be permitted within a reasonable distance of shore from the Tuesday after Labor Day until the Saturday prior to Memorial Day, unless posted otherwise. During the summer season, metal detecting in beach and swimming areas will be at the discretion of the park manager based on the manager's knowledge of the use and type of facility.

Metal detecting in other underwater areas will be permitted within a reasonable distance of shore if it does not conflict with other activities or have potential for causing damage to the facility.

Many state park areas have the potential for the recovery of valuable historical objects. State park areas with this potential may have part or all of their area closed to metal detecting.

Rules

Fees

There is no fee charged for metal detecting in Pennsylvania State Parks.

Hours Permitted to Metal Detect

Metal detecting is permitted only from sunrise to sunset.

Digging Tools

Shovels, spades, garden trowels, and other similar tools may not be used to dig into or turn over ground areas that are covered by turf, vegetation, shrubs, or trees. The only permissible digging tools are screwdrivers, ice picks, and other similar narrow pronged devices.

Finding Items

The finding of historical objects in any state park area should be handled by first contacting the park manager of the particular park. People, seeking or who have found, historical artifacts should consult the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission .

Individuals shall report items which are found and will be removed from the park.

Who To Contact

Individuals who want to use a metal detector in a state park must receive prior approval from the specific park manager on-site at the park and report items which are found and will be removed from the park.