Ready to unearth Michigan’s buried past? Discover the best ghost towns for metal detecting and step into a treasure hunter’s paradise!
I believe it is my duty to share my experience with you as someone who has been metal detecting in many countries and regions in my 15 years of metal detecting history.
I decided it would be a good idea to go on a quest to find the best ghost towns in Michigan to metal detect.
So, I did several interview sessions with the local metal detectorists in Michigan to find the best ghost towns to metal detect.
Based on their recommendations and my personal experiences, I have compiled a list of the top ghost towns for treasure hunting.
So, here is my list of the Best Ghost Towns in Michigan to Metal Detect,
- Fayette, Michigan
- Clifton, Michigan
- Sherman, Michigan
- Mandan, Michigan
- Grand Haven State Park, Michigan
- Warren Dunes State Park, Michigan
- Huron and Manistee National Forests, Michigan
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg!
In this article I’ll explore each of the above best ghost towns in Michigan to metal detect and what type of finds you’ll likely find from each location.
Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions as well.
Just keep reading!
Is Metal Detecting Legal in Michigan Ghost Towns?
Yes, metal detecting is legal in Michigan ghost towns. But as a metal detectorist, you have to obey various legal restrictions.
When you metal detecting in Michigan state parks and ghost towns, you must do your metal detecting without damaging natural and cultural resources.
Also, keep in mind that designated specific cities like Mason, MI have their own set of rules for metal detecting that you may not know about.
If you are engaged in metal detecting, you must obtain an authorized license. Note that otherwise metal detecting is also illegal.
You can get more information on whether metal detecting is appropriate in Michigan by contacting the appropriate local government agency.
Best Ghost Towns in Michigan to Metal Detect
A question my friend often asks me is ‘In your experience what are the best ghost towns in Michigan for metal detecting?’
So, while searching for answers to his questions, I thought I would share those things with you.
Michigan is one of the most popular states for treasure hunting and metal detecting. Its weather is ideal for metal detecting and the area has high priority for gold discovery.
However, before you go metal detecting, it is very important to know the state and federal laws governing metal detecting.
Now I’ll tell you about the best ghost towns in Michigan for metal detecting that I’ve found on my journey.
1. Fayette, Michigan
Did you know that Fayette Historic State Park in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, USA is a ghost town?
It was founded in the mid-800s and once housed a bustling industrial community centered around iron smelting.
Fayette is a great place for metal detecting enthusiasts to uncover hidden artifacts and remnants of the industrial age.
Metal Detecting Finds at Fayette, Michigan
Below I have listed some of the items that you can easily find at metal detectors in Fayette, Michigan.
- Iron and Metal Residues – The town was famous for its iron smelting industry in the past, so you’ll inevitably find iron ore, slag and other industrial byproducts.
- Household Artifacts – You may find cooking and household items used by the people who lived here, so be careful metal detecting.
- Tools and Equipment – Your metal detector may find discarded tools, machine parts and equipment used in the iron smelting process.
Be sure to preserve historic integrity and follow park regulations when metal detecting at Fayette Historic State Park.
2. Clifton, Michigan
Did you know that the ghost town of Clifton is located in Mason County, Michigan, USA?
Located along the Pere Marquette River in the late 1800s, the ghost town of Clifton was rich with sawmills and general stores.
As the timber industry weakened and economic conditions changed, the town declined and eventually became a ghost town.
When you go metal detecting in Clifton, you are sure to find hidden artifacts and remnants of the past.
Overall, Clifton is one of the best places in Michigan to metal detect.
Metal Detecting Finds at Clifton, Michigan
I’ve compiled a list of metal detector finds that you can meet and look out for while metal detecting in and around Clifton Ghost Town.
- Nails and Hardware – This city has a long history of construction and industry and you’re bound to find nails and hardware when you explore here.
- Household Artifacts – You can find household artifacts such as buttons, buckles and jewelry which give an insight into the lifestyle of the inhabitants of the past.
- Coins and Tokens – The inhabitants of this town were heavily involved in the lumber industry in the past and you can uncover coins and tokens during your explorations, giving you an insight into that economic activity.
If you find significant or valuable artifacts while exploring here, be sure to report them to local historical organizations to help preserve Clifton’s history.
3. Sherman, Michigan
Did you know you can metal detect in the ghost town of Sherman in Keweenaw County, Michigan, USA.
Founded in 1854, this town became popular among the people due to the discovery of copper in the area, while the timber and logging industry took place in the area.
Sherman had a sawmill, a general store, and a school, but as timber resources gradually declined and economic conditions changed, the town became a ghost town.
Metal Detecting Finds at Sherman, Michigan
Historical items and ruins are among the easy finds you can find metal detecting in Sherman, Michigan.
Additionally, I have created the following list for you of the finds and collections I found in my explorations.
- Coins and Money – You can find coins and money in metal detecting, exploring the economic status of Sherman’s past residents.
- Construction and Hardware Items – Given the history of this ghost town, your metal detector can find pieces of construction and hardware items such as old nails, screws, and buildings.
- Industrial Artifacts – In the past, the discovery of copper in this city has led to the most copper-related industries. Pay attention to this when you are metal detecting.
- Architectural Elements – Metal artifacts associated with architecture such as hinges, locks, and decorative elements can be found in this city by your metal detector.
Remember: If you find significant or valuable artifacts while exploring here, be sure to report them to local historical organizations to help preserve Sherman’s history.
4. Mandan, Michigan
If you are looking for the best ghost towns for metal detecting in Michigan, another town that you can recommend is the town of Mandan.
Did you know that this Mandan ghost town is located in St. Clair County, Michigan, USA.
The town prospered during the 19th century, primarily thanks to the lumber industry and the Grand Trunk Western Railroad.
Also, in particular, there was a sawmill, a post office, and many other establishments.
The city declined when the timber resources were depleted and the economic situation changed.
Metal Detecting Finds at Mandan, Michigan
Looking for metal detector finds in Mandan, Michigan, you are more likely to find antiques and remnants of the past within the city area.
I created the list below just for those of you interested in metal detecting.
- Personal Items – You can metal detect items such as buttons and jewelry, gaining insight into the daily lives and personal adornment of the inhabitants of this ghost town.
- Coins and Money – You will definitely come across coins and money, as lumber has been a priority in the past.
- Construction Materials and Hardware – This city has been a busy city in the past, so you can definitely spot construction materials and hardware at metal detectors. Therefore, pay attention to it and engage in preventive activities.
- Industrial Relics – You can easily uncover metal artifacts related to industrial machinery or equipment.
Before you engage in metal detecting in Mandan, be sure to follow any laws or guidelines established by local authorities or landowners and obtain permits.
5. Grand Haven State Park, Michigan
Did you know that the ghost town near Grand Haven State Park is also known as “Singapore”? This is an area near the mouth of the Grand River in Ottawa County, Michigan, USA.
Also, since 4 of the 5 Great Lakes are bordered here, there are plenty of lighthouses, but not all of them are open to the public.
What is unique about Grand Haven State Park is that not all lighthouses have metal detector-friendly policies.
It must be noted that the Grand Haven State Park, a 48-acre park, is made entirely of beach sand in addition to the lighthouse.
Read to know, Best Beaches in Michigan to Metal Detect
Metal Detecting Finds at Grand Haven State Park
Below I will list the things I found while metal detecting. If you choose Grand Haven State Park to metal detect, pay attention to those things.
- Coins and Tokens – The town dates back to the 1830s, so there are many sawmill homes and businesses in the past. You can definitely find old coins, tokens and money in metal detecting. Give them special attention.
- Nails and Hardware – This area has a rich construction and industrial history in the past so your metal detector will definitely detect machine parts, old nails and other hardware.
- Household Items – Although this area is now abandoned, you can definitely find household items such as cookware and ornaments as it was inhabited in the past.
- Architectural Relics – You can easily identify the architectural remains of buildings in this area such as hinges, door handles and window hardware.
- Transportation Artifacts – You can easily spot metal objects related to transportation in this area, such as wagon parts or horseshoes.
6. Warren Dunes State Park, Michigan
As a metal detectorist, did you know that Warren Dunes State Park is a series of large sand dunes located near the southwestern part of Michigan, bordering Lake Michigan?
In other words, it is located near the city of Sawyer in Berrien County, Michigan, USA. The park is also known as Warren Woods, spread over 1,952 acres of land.
The park was a thriving lumber and milling community in the mid-1800s, but economic changes over time have led to its decline.
Metal Detecting Finds at Warren Dunes State Park
Metal detectorists visit Warren Dunes State Park specifically to look for antiques and historical items.
I’ve also listed below some metal detector finds that I found when I was there and that you can find.
- Coins and Money – This area has historically been used for lumber and millwork, so you’re sure to find old coins, tokens, and pieces of money there. Pay attention to that.
- Nails and Fasteners – You can use metal detectors to detect old nails, screws, etc. as buildings and historic structures have had them in the past.
- Household Items – During my explorations I easily and primarily uncovered household artifacts such as buttons, buckles and jewelry. These provide information about the daily life of the people who lived there in the past.
- Transportation Artifacts – In the past horses were mostly used for transportation, so you will definitely come across transportation artifacts such as chariots.
7. Huron and Manistee National Forests, Michigan
Did you know that two national forests, the Huron and Manistee National Forests, are both located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan?
In other words, these two national forests cover much of the northern Lower Peninsula of Michigan, USA.
The area is a vast area of 978,906 acres filled with thousands of lakes and miles of rivers.
In particular, you should know that metal detectors are open for use only in the Manistee section of the National Forest known as the Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness.
Metal Detecting Finds at Huron and Manistee National Forests
You can identify many historical artifacts while metal detecting in this area. Below I have listed some of the metal detector finds you can find.
- Coins and Money – Be sure to spot old coins, tokens, and coins and money that provide insight into past economic activity, so be on the lookout.
- Household Items – Everyday items used by people in the past can be found. These may include buttons, buckles and jewelry.
- Artifacts – When paying attention to history, you can use metal detectors to identify tools associated with the woodworking industry.
- Military Items – Given the historical periods in this area you are more likely to find military artifacts such as uniform buttons and equipment.
Remember: If you find significant or valuable artifacts while exploring here, be sure to report them to local historical organizations to help preserve Huron and Manistee National Forests’s history.
You can learn more about the above ghost towns by joining and engaging with the metal-detecting clubs in Michigan!
Tips for Successful Metal Detecting in Michigan Ghost Towns
If you are interested in metal detecting ghost towns in Michigan I will give you some simple tips that I have followed and that have helped me.
- The first thing you should do is do some research to identify ghost towns in Michigan that have historical significance before going metal detecting.
- Then check the regulations given for metal detection in your chosen cities and get permission.
- Be sure to use a quality metal detector suitable for your chosen terrain.
- Of particular note is whether the weather and terrain conditions are conducive to your metal detecting.
- Be careful not to disturb the environment or damage any structures while searching for hidden treasures.
- After you make a find, keep a detailed record of your find, including its location, depth, and type of object.
If you’re new to metal detecting, remember that metal detecting isn’t just about finding valuables, it’s also about connecting with history and preserving the past.
Congrats folks! Now you have a clear idea about the best ghost towns in Michigan to metal detect with tips based on local professional metal detectorists and myself.
If you’re interested in finding more info about Michigan metal detecting through online sources, visit, Best Metal Detecting Forums in Michigan!
Fayette, one of Michigan’s most well-preserved ghost towns, was once a bustling iron-smelting hub with over 500 residents
www.onlyinyourstate.com
So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs
What kind of permits do I need for metal detecting in Michigan’s ghost towns?
Regulations can vary by location, but generally, you’ll need a permit from the relevant local or state authorities. Always check the current laws and rules before you head out.
What types of items can I expect to find?
Expect a wide variety of finds ranging from old coins and jewelry to tools and household items from different eras. The age of the ghost town can often indicate the types of relics you might unearth.
How do I know if a ghost town is on private property?
Before heading out, do thorough research to determine property ownership. Many ghost towns are on private lands, and trespassing without permission is illegal.
Are there best times of the year to go metal detecting in Michigan’s ghost towns?
Spring and fall are generally the best seasons, offering moderate temperatures and lower foliage, which makes detecting easier. However, summer and winter can offer their own unique challenges and rewards.
How do I use my metal detector effectively in these locations?
Learn your machine’s settings and capabilities, and practice sweeping techniques that cover ground thoroughly. Being familiar with your detector ensures you won’t miss potential finds.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Ghost Towns in Michigan to Metal Detect
In this article, I’ve deeply explored the best ghost towns in Michigan to metal detect based on the facts local metal detectorists mentioned and on my personal experience.
Plus, I’ve shared some tips and tricks that I learned by practicing metal detecting in Michigan.
The best ghost towns in Michigan for metal detecting include Fayette, Pere Cheney, and Nonesuch. These locations offer a rich history and a good chance of finding valuable relics, coins, and artifacts. Always check local regulations and secure necessary permits before you go.
Hope you learned everything you wanted to know about the best ghost towns in Michigan to metal detect with possible finds you can detect in Michigan.
So, it’s time to take your metal detector and go treasure hunting in Michigan ghost towns!
