Ever dreamt of unearthing hidden treasures in South Carolina’s pristine state parks? Which park will lead you to your next discovery?
Due to its history from the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, South Carolina has become a renowned location for metal detectorists. The state is a prime spot for metal detecting.
Many residents within the state are passionate about this hobby, which also benefits visiting metal-detecting enthusiasts.
The state parks, rich in history, are popular exploration sites.
That’s why I’ve visited several state parks in South Carolina to metal detect.
During these visits, I identified parks that are friendly to metal detecting and noted the types of treasures that can be found.
Drawing from my experience and suggestions from expert metal detectorists in South Carolina, let me recommend the best state parks in South Carolina.
So, here are the best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect,
- Myrtle beach state park
- Lake Greenwood state park
- Barnwell state park
- Cheraw state park
- Poinsett state park
- Devils fork state park
- Croft state park
- Sesquicentennial state park
- Andrew Jackson state park
- Chester state park
- Goodale state park
- Lake hartwell state park
But there’s a lot more to know about those state parks!
So, in this article, I’ll explore the best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect with their metal detecting policies, how to get permissions, and what treasure have a high possibility to find.
Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions as well.
Let’s jump in!
Can You Metal Detect In South Carolina State Parks?
If you need a quick answer to this question, yes. South Carolina allows metal detecting in state parks. But they have some rules and restrictions adhered to this process.
Metal detecting is prohibited in all the state parks that have a historical value. Most of these parks are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Other state parks where the primary resources are not historic or archeological sites do not have yet been identified will be considered to permit exploration.
Some of the locations in the park will be open for metal detecting.
All the metal detection should be performed in non-sensitive areas. Sensitive areas and delicate structures within the state parks are not allowed for metal detecting.
Before using a metal detector within any state park, approval from the park management should be secured.
In case any historic artifacts were found, they should not be removed from the ground and must be reported to the park authorities.
Best State Parks In South Carolina To Metal Detect
There are many state parks in South Carolina that are allowed to metal detect.
Some parks have it restricted to a few spots as most of the parts are historically valuable.
But however, there is potential in South Carolina for metal detecting in state parks if the given rules and regulations are obeyed.
Let’s look into some of the best state parks worth metal detecting.
1. Myrtle Beach State Park
This is one of the most popular state parks in South Carolina as a tourist destination. There are many campsites, forests, beaches, and trails within the park.
But only the beach area is allowed for metal detecting. At the high tide, the beach area is also restricted.
There are many objects including lost jewelry and coins that can be found within the beach area.
It is recommended to do the search early morning or evening during the low tides. Also, there are not many crowds during this time.
Check out the Best Beaches in South Carolina to Metal Detect!
2. Lake Greenwood State Park
This park is located in the upstate region of South Carolina. It mainly offers camping opportunities for the visitors.
The park has an 11,400-acre reservoir.
The reservoir area is prohibited for metal detecting. Only the park area can be metal detected. However, the supervisor of the park should be on duty while metal detecting.
3. Barnwell State Park
Barwell State Park is one of the community’s favorite parks in Blackville, South Carolina. It is a state park built by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
The park is popular for fishing spots.
There are also camping facilities within this park where cabins are built. Metal detecting is allowed in specific areas of the park.
Detectorists have to get permission before detecting.
4. Cheraw State Park
This state park is a perfect place for a getaway. The relaxing and escaping nature of this park makes it more attractive to people.
But this state park is originally famous for its 18-hole championship golf course.
Most of the other parts of the park are flooded by hardwood forest that includes pines, oaks, and cypress trees. The forest lines up the Lake Juniper.
So this area is popular as a fishing spot. Metal detecting here is only allowed along Broadway and some of the few other spots.
However, it should be done under the supervision of the park management.
5. Poinsett State Park
Poinsett State Park is located in the high hills of Santee, South Carolina. It is also known as the mountains of the midlands.
The park offers camping, fishing, boating, and other facilities.
It has a mixed ecosystem combined with forests.
There are trails within the park that lead to the Manchester State Forest. The 10-acre lake can be used for fishing and boating.
Metal detecting is allowed within designated areas of the park. One example is the trails that lead into the state forest. A permit should be issued in order to perform metal detecting.
Check out the Best Places to Metal Detect in South Carolina!
6. Devils Fork State Park
This park is located on the shoreline of Lake Jocassee. The lake is popular as one of the best trout fishing spots in South Carolina.
The park is around 7565 acres and most locations remain undeveloped. There are several waterfalls falling across the park towards the lake.
There are also furnished villas and campgrounds for those who love to spend a night at the park.
Metal detecting is allowed on the campgrounds and certain other locations within the park. A special permission letter should be taken in order to detect within the park.
7. Croft State Park
This state park is located in Spartanburg County, South Carolina.
The land was used as a campsite for the US army during World War II. It was also used as a farm during the 18th century.
There are cemeteries within the park that belonged to the farm owners and a church. The remains of the cemeteries can still be located within the park.
The park offers fishing, hiking, biking, and nature exploring chances for its visitors. There are two lakes within this 7,000-acre park.
Metal detecting at Croft Park is allowed with appropriate permission from the park authority.
8. Sesquicentennial State Park
Sesquicentennial State Park is also known as Sesqui by the locals. It is a very spacious park popular as a green gateway among the people.
The park is located in the Sandhills region of South Carolina. The park was built by the civilian conservation corps.
The park is 1,419 acres and contains picnic areas, fishing sites, and trails.
There are also camping sites available for those who prefer to stay a night at the park. It is idle for a day trip or for camping.
Metal detecting is permitted in specific areas of the park with the guidance of the park ranger.
The items that were found have to be shown to the ranger before taking out of the park.
9. Andrew Jackson State Park
This is a 360-acre state park established in 1952 in honor of Andrew Jackson, the only South Carolina-born president.
The park is located near Lancaster, South Carolina.
There are 25 different campsites within the park. Also, the park offers opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, and picnicking.
Some locations of the park are open for metal detecting. The designated areas can be learned from the park office or the management.
Also, a permission letter should be taken including the allowed times and dates for metal detecting.
10. Chester State Park
Chester State Park is located near Chester Town in Chester County, South Carolina. It is a 523-acre park that was developed by the civilian conservation corps.
The park also has a 160-acre lake.
Fishing and picnicking areas are included along this lake area. There is also a trail that follows up along the shoreline.
Most of the locations within the park are open during the summer season.
The lake area is open for metal detecting and permission should be taken from the park authority.
11. Goodale State Park
Goodale State Park is located in Camden, South Carolina. There is a 140-acre lake and a mill pond from the Civil War era located within this park.
The park has a pine tree and cypress tree forest. The park was originally popular as the best spot for kayaking in South Carolina.
There is a three-mile trail within the forest popular as a hiking trail. There is also a small shoreline famous as a fishing and picnicking area.
You can get permission to metal detect along the trail and the shoreline area. But other parts are restricted for metal detecting.
12. Lake Hartwell State Park
This park is located in Oconee County, South Carolina. The park was built in 1976 by the US Army Corps.
It is a 680-acre park with 14 miles of shoreline on Lake Hartwell. The park is, therefore, famous as a fishing and boating area. It also has picnicking, hiking, and camping.
There are also two cabins that can be rented throughout the year.
The shoreline is open for metal detecting with the permission of the park authorities.
That’s it, folks! Now you know all the best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect with their metal detecting rules and historic value.
Now I’m going to share with you tips that I’ve learned while I was metal detecting in South Carolina state parks.
The below tips will help you avoid any troubles when metal detecting and help you to get permission to detect South Carolina state parks without any issues.
Some of the below tips were gathered by interviewing some of my friendly expert local detectorists in South Carolina.
So, just keep reading!
Tips For Successful Metal Detecting In South Carolina State Parks
There are some tips that can be followed in order to metal detect successfully within the state parks of South Carolina,
Study The Metal-Detecting Policies Of The State Parks
Before metal detecting a state park, research the rules of the park related to metal detecting and check whether permission is required in order to metal detect the park.
Some parks only allow designated areas to explore while other areas will be prohibited.
Get Permission From The Park Authorities
Obtain permission from the park authorities before metal detecting.
Even if it says metal detecting is permitted, double-check it with the park staff to prevent any bad situation.
Choose A Good Metal Detector
Select a metal detector that is best suited for the location and the type of metal that can be found within the area.
Because different detectors have different capabilities and settings.
Respect The Nature
South Carolina state parks are home to many wildlife fauna and flora species.
Some of them are endangered and protected.
So make sure that you always respect them and avoid disturbing them by staying in the designated locations.
If you like to learn more about metal-detecting South Carolina state parks, better to join a metal-detecting club in South Carolina and engage with the audience for treasure-hunting events in state parks.
South Carolina’s state parks were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s.
www.scprt.com
So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs
Is metal detecting allowed in California state parks?
Yes, metal detecting is permitted in many California state parks, but it requires adherence to specific rules and obtaining permission, often involving a fee.
Which state parks are best for metal detecting in California?
Notable parks include Fort Ord Dunes, El Capitan, Folsom Lake, Auburn, and Huntington State Park, each offering unique terrains and potential treasures.
Do I need a permit to metal detect in California state parks?
Obtaining a permit is typically required, with fees and regulations varying between parks.
Can I keep what I find while metal detecting in these parks?
It depends on the park’s regulations; certain historical or archaeological finds must be reported, while others can be kept.
Are there specific areas in the parks where metal detecting is prohibited?
Restrictions can apply, so it’s essential to consult with park officials to know the designated areas for metal detecting.
What types of items are commonly found in these parks?
Items range from lost jewelry and coins to artifacts, depending on the park’s history and visitor activities.
Are there equipment restrictions for metal detecting in these parks?
Certain parks may have restrictions on the types of metal detectors and equipment allowed; always check the park’s specific guidelines.
What is the “leave no trace” rule in context to metal detecting?
Detectorists are required to restore the terrain to its original state after digging, ensuring no damage to the environment.
Is there a community or group for metal detectorists in California?
Various communities and forums exist, providing platforms for enthusiasts to share finds, tips, and experiences.
Can I metal detect in the water areas of these parks?
Water areas can be explored, especially during low tides, but it’s crucial to adhere to the park’s specific guidelines and safety measures.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best State Parks in South Carolina to Metal Detect
In this article, I’ve deeply discussed the best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect in detail with the treasure you can find.
The best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect include Myrtle Beach State Park, Lake Greenwood State Park, and Barnwell State Park. Always check with park authorities for permissions and designated metal detecting areas before starting.
Furthermore, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions a swell.
Hope you’ve learned all you wanted to know about the best state parks in South Carolina to metal detect including experts’ tips and techniques.
Now it’s time for you to book a trip to your nearest state park mentioned above in South Carolina and go for treasure hunting like a pro!
