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50-state metal detecting intelligence

Best Places to Metal Detect

Official-source rules, permission pathways, map context and practical next steps—kept separate from the rockhounding atlas.

Verified places to metal detect

These results exclude research-only records. “Permit required” means the place is not freely open without authorization.

2,060 verified records in this scope.

Universal map & navigation coverage0 independently verified coordinate pins · 60 records with safe map navigation
Belmont Lake State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Bethpage State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Bowman Lake State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Captree State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Chenango Valley State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Cherry Plain State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Delta Lake State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Finger Lakes National ForestNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Gilbert Lake State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Glimmerglass State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Grafton Lakes State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Green Lakes State ParkNew YorkNamed public place map search
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Showing 12 quick navigation targets above. All 60 records in this scope include their own map-provider links below.

Allowed/restrictedPermit requiredProhibitedRestricted / partialReview

Map meaning: verified coordinate pins identify independently grounded public visitor/access reference points. Query-only records can be resolved on demand as temporary provider search matches; sensitive records use a deliberately broader agency/locality query. Temporary search matches are not stored as verified coordinates. No map mode is a property boundary, detecting zone, archaeological target, or permission boundary.

Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Belmont Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Bethpage State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Bowman Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Captree State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Chenango Valley State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Saratoga-Capital seasonal permit; designated beach only Grade A · 100/100

Cherry Plain State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Saratoga-Capital District

The district permit creates a narrow seasonal beach pathway only. On the current data verification date, the permit is in its express summer no-detecting period.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanOperationally BlockedEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisiteOperationsSeasonally closed for metal detecting
Permit: Yes — Saratoga-Capital metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Delta Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Allowed with restrictions — recreational modern-item detecting only in suitable non-historic areas Grade A · 100/100

Finger Lakes National Forest

U.S. Forest Service

Recreational detector use is not an artifact-collection authorization and must stop where protected-resource context is encountered.

DecisionAllowed With ConditionsTrip readyYesPlanGo Only With Verified ConditionsEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional detector permission
Permit: No permit typically required for ordinary modern lost-item detecting where allowed; exact site/order confirmation still required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Gilbert Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Glimmerglass State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Saratoga-Capital seasonal permit; designated beach only Grade A · 100/100

Grafton Lakes State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Saratoga-Capital District

The district permit creates a narrow seasonal beach pathway only. On the current data verification date, the permit is in its express summer no-detecting period.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanOperationally BlockedEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisiteOperationsSeasonally closed for metal detecting
Permit: Yes — Saratoga-Capital metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Green Lakes State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Heckscher State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Hempstead Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Hither Hills State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Jones Beach State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Montauk Point State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Saratoga-Capital seasonal permit; designated beach only Grade A · 100/100

Moreau Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Saratoga-Capital District

The district permit creates a narrow seasonal beach pathway only. On the current data verification date, the permit is in its express summer no-detecting period.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanOperationally BlockedEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisiteOperationsSeasonally closed for metal detecting
Permit: Yes — Saratoga-Capital metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — expedited TRP pathway at designated campground beaches Grade A · 100/100

New York DEC designated campground beaches — metal detector TRP pathway

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

This is a permit pathway, not permissionless beach detecting; exact campground, beach, conditions and issued TRP control.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — DEC Temporary Revocable Permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — expedited TRP only for owner retrieving recently lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

New York DEC recently lost personal property — State Land retrieval pathway

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The lost-property exception is personal, recent, limited and permit-controlled; it is not a recreational detector authorization.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — DEC Temporary Revocable Permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — written DEC permit for metal detector use Grade A · 100/100

New York DEC Wildlife Management Areas — statewide system

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

DEC WMA rules require written Department permission and separately protect soil, mineral and archaeological resources.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — written DEC permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Oquaga Creek State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Orient Beach State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Robert Moses State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Sandy Island Beach State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Selkirk Shores State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Sunken Meadow State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Saratoga-Capital seasonal permit; designated beach only Grade A · 100/100

Thompsons Lake State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Saratoga-Capital District

The district permit creates a narrow seasonal beach pathway only. On the current data verification date, the permit is in its express summer no-detecting period.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanOperationally BlockedEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisiteOperationsSeasonally closed for metal detecting
Permit: Yes — Saratoga-Capital metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Valley Stream State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Central Region metal detector permit; sandy beach only and seasonal Grade A · 100/100

Verona Beach State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Central Region

Central Region maintains a dedicated metal-detecting permit for these ten parks; the permit is zone- and season-limited rather than park-wide permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Central Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Long Island Region annual metal detector permit; designated areas only Grade A · 100/100

Wildwood State Park

NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation — Long Island Region

Long Island Region expressly limits metal detecting to designated areas at the listed permit parks; the regional permit does not create park-wide detecting permission.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Long Island Region metal detector permit required Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — valid NYC Parks metal detector permit and permitted site/zone Grade A · 100/100

New York City Parks — permitted metal detecting system

New York City · NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

A citywide permit does not make every park usable; the current permitted-site list, posted closures and permit conditions control.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — NYC Parks metal detector permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Cedar Point County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Charles F. Altenkirch County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Cupsogue Beach County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Meschutt Beach County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Shinnecock East County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — Suffolk County metal detecting permit; designated seaward zones only Grade A · 100/100

Smith Point County Park

Suffolk County · Suffolk County Parks

Suffolk County expressly limits detector use to named county parks and specified seaward areas, with restoration and resource-protection conditions.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Yes — Suffolk County Parks metal detecting permit Verified: 2026-08-30
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Authorization required — metal detector use is prohibited without a State Forest permit Grade A · 100/100

Bladen Lakes State Forest

North Carolina Forest Service

02 NCAC 60B.1028 prohibits metal-detector use without a permit and separately restricts collection/removal of artifacts, minerals and natural resources.

DecisionProhibitedTrip readyNoPlanChoose Legal AlternativeEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionExpress detector-use prohibition or equivalent no-detecting rule
Permit: Permit required from Forest Supervisor or designee Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Bobs Creek State Natural Area

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Carolina Beach State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Carvers Creek State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Allowed with restrictions — Forest Service designated metal-detecting area only Grade A · 100/100

Cheoah Point Beach

USDA Forest Service

Cheoah Point Beach is one of six specifically designated North Carolina National Forest detector areas under Order 04-16-2010. Permission does not extend beyond the exact marked/designated footprint.

DecisionAllowed With ConditionsTrip readyYesPlanGo Only With Verified ConditionsEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional detector permission
Permit: Check rule Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Chimney Rock State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use is prohibited without a State Forest permit Grade A · 100/100

Clemmons Educational State Forest

North Carolina Forest Service

02 NCAC 60B.1028 prohibits metal-detector use without a permit and separately restricts collection/removal of artifacts, minerals and natural resources.

DecisionProhibitedTrip readyNoPlanChoose Legal AlternativeEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionExpress detector-use prohibition or equivalent no-detecting rule
Permit: Permit required from Forest Supervisor or designee Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Crowders Mountain State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Dismal Swamp State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use is prohibited without a State Forest permit Grade A · 100/100

DuPont State Recreational Forest

North Carolina Forest Service

02 NCAC 60B.1028 prohibits metal-detector use without a permit and separately restricts collection/removal of artifacts, minerals and natural resources.

DecisionProhibitedTrip readyNoPlanChoose Legal AlternativeEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionExpress detector-use prohibition or equivalent no-detecting rule
Permit: Permit required from Forest Supervisor or designee Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Elk Knob State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Eno River State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Fort Macon State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Goose Creek State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Gorges State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Grandfather Mountain State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Hammocks Beach State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Hanging Rock State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
Open verified record Google MapOpenStreetMapApple MapsNamed public place map search
Authorization required — metal detector use requires a Special Use Permit and is limited to locating lost personal property Grade A · 100/100

Haw River State Park

North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

NC State Parks expressly state that metal detectors are not allowed except to locate lost personal property when authorized by a Special Use Permit; natural-resource/artifact removal remains restricted.

DecisionAuthorization RequiredTrip readyNoPlanObtain Authorization Before TravelEvidenceCurrentScopeControlling Rule Scope StoredPrecisionConditional authorization / designated-zone prerequisite
Permit: Special Use Permit required from NC State Parks Verified: 2026-08-29
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