15 Best Places to Metal Detect in Georgia

Ever dreamed of unearthing hidden treasures in Georgia? Join us as we delve into the best metal detecting spots in this history-rich state. Ready for an adventure?

Best Places in Georgia to Metal Detect

Georgia, a populous US state with a rich history, was founded in 1732 and had the largest number of plantations in the south. In 1829, a gold rush attracted prospectors from across the country.

Me and my metal-detecting team planned to visit Georgia as our next metal-detecting destination in 2019. 

I had the chance to participate in the thrilling hunt for buried treasure by going metal detecting with local expert detectorists.

I’m here to help if the idea of discovering treasures in Georgia excites you. 

Based on my own experiences, and the data I gathered from expert Georgians I’ve put together a list of the top metal-detecting-friendly locations in the state.

So, here are the best places to metal detect in Georgia,

  1. St. Andrews Beach Park
  2. Amicalola Creek
  3. Anderson Creek
  4. Graves Mountain
  5. Sapelo Island
  6. Etowah Indian Mounds
  7. The Georgia Gold Belt
  8. Cannon’s Point Preserve
  9. Tybee Island
  10. Berry College
  11. Griswoldville
  12. Savannah
  13. Kennesaw Mountain
  14. Fort McAllister
  15. Fort Pulaski

But there’s a lot more to know about those locations.

So, in this article, I’ll explore the best places to metal detect in Georgia with their map locations, treasures you can find with all the metal detecting rules and regulations in Georgia you need to follow.

Furthermore, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions.

Let’s get going!

Metal detecting friendly places in Georgia
Metal detecting friendly places in Georgia

Best Places to Metal Detect in Georgia

There are plenty of locations for you to explore there! This state is full of amazing locations that are ideal for this kind of activity, and it has a rich history.

Georgia was home to numerous Native American tribes before European settlers arrived. For thousands of years, numerous Native American bands and tribes had called Georgia home.

As a result, Georgia is home to a large number of Native American relics, and artifact hunting is a very popular pastime there.

Things you should consider when metal detecting in Georgia
Things you should consider when metal detecting in Georgia

Georgia is a veritable gold mine for metal detectorists, with everything from historic Georgian homes to lost treasures and even Civil War relics.

Let me share with you the best locations in Georgia where you can go for treasure hunting in detail with the techniques you should follow.

1. St. Andrews Beach Park

St. Andrews Beach Park in Georgia is a popular spot for metal-detecting enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to search for buried artifacts, coins, and other valuable items. 

St. Andrews Beach Park Georgia
St. Andrews Beach Park Georgia

The park’s scenic shores, historic significance, and thrilling thrill make it a favorite spot along the Georgia coastline. 

To ensure a respectful and responsible experience, visitors should familiarize themselves with local regulations.

My first find was a corroded coin from the early 1900s, which had a historical connection. According to my experience, St Andrews Beach is one of the best beaches in Georgia to metal detect.

After that I discovered old buttons, lost jewelry, and seashells washed up from the ocean, adding to my treasure collection.

How To Get To St. Andrews Beach Park

St. Andrews Beach Park, situated on St. Simons Island, Georgia, is easily accessible from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK).

To reach Darien, take Aviation Drive southwest, turn right onto Glynco Parkway, and merge onto I-95 S. 

Take exit 29 for US-17/GA-25 and turn left onto US-17 S/GA-25 S. Continue on US-17 S, passing the F.J. Torras Causeway bridge, and continue until you reach St. Andrews Beach Park.

St. Andrews Beach Park is situated on St. Simons Island’s eastern side, near Demere Road and Arnold Road intersection. GPS or navigation apps provide precise directions.

Things You Can Find in St. Andrews Beach Park

  • Gold Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens 
Old coin found when metal detecting in Georgia
Old coin found when metal detecting in Georgia

2. Amicalola Creek

Metal detecting in Amicalola Creek, located in the Appalachian Mountains, is a thrilling outdoor activity that combines nature and discovery. 

Amicalola Creek Georgia
Amicalola Creek Georgia

The creek offers a unique setting for treasure hunters, where they may discover hidden relics, coins, or artifacts. 

However, it’s important to obtain permits and respect local regulations to preserve the natural wonder. Happy hunting!

As I dug deeper, I found more relics that alluded to the creek’s history, such as fragments of pottery and rusted horseshoes. 

The items I discovered were like puzzle pieces, showing the hardships and victories of the early settlers who depended on Amicalola Creek as a lifeline.

How To Get To Amicalola Creek

Depending on traffic and the exact route you take, the 250 miles or so drive from BQK to Amicalola Creek takes 4 to 4.5 hours.

To reach Amicalola Falls State Park Road in Dawson County, take Aviation Parkway west toward NOLA Dr., then take GA-25 N/US-17 N/US-82 E to the left. Continue on GA-25 N until you reach I-575 N in Cobb County. 

Take I-575 N and exit 7, then continue on GA-52 E in Dawson County. 

Take Howell Bridge Road, exit 27, and continue on GA-5 N/N Main St. Continue on GA-5 N, then take GA-136 W to Amicalola Falls State Park Rd.

To reach Amicalola Creek and Amicalola Falls State Park, follow these directions and use GPS or mapping services for real-time navigation and to consider road closures or construction affecting your route.

Things You Can Find in Amicalola Creek

  • Gold Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
Civil War artifact found when metal detecting in Georgia
Civil War artifact found when metal detecting in Georgia

Check out the Best Metal Detecting Finds in Georgia!

3. Anderson Creek

Anderson Creek is an ideal spot for metal-detecting enthusiasts due to its rich history and diverse terrain. It offers a variety of treasure-hunting opportunities, including creek banks, old trails, and woods. 

However, it’s crucial to obtain permits and follow local regulations for a responsible and enjoyable metal-detecting experience in Anderson Creek.

Finally, I dug through the dirt to find an ancient, rusted brass belt buckle. It was obviously a relic from the past, though it was worn and had seen better days. 

How To Get To Anderson Creek

The general directions from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) to Anderson Creek, Georgia are provided, but are approximate and should be used with a navigation app or GPS for accurate directions.

To reach Anderson Creek, exit the airport and take Aviation Drive. Turn left onto US-17 North, then merge onto I-95 North for 33 miles. Take GA-99 toward Eulonia/Darien, exit 42, and make a right turn onto GA-99 East. 

Continue for 17 miles, then take a left onto US-17 North for ten miles. Turn right onto GA-99 East for three miles, then turn right onto Old Shellman Bluff Road to enter Anderson Creek.

Use provided directions for general ideas, verify route using GPS or mapping service for accurate directions.

Things You Can Find in Anderson Creek

  • Gold Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
Farm tool found when metal detecting in Georgia
Farm tool found when metal detecting in Georgia

4. Graves Mountain

Graves Mountain in Georgia is a popular spot for metal-detecting enthusiasts due to its rich mineral and semi-precious stone deposits

These enthusiasts seek to uncover unique specimens of rutile and lazulite, amidst the picturesque setting. 

For me, The thrill of discovering hidden treasures in this picturesque location makes it a prime spot for metal-detecting enthusiasts.

How To Get To Graves Mountain

To get from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) to Graves Mountain in Georgia, Travel Aviation Parkway northwest in the direction of Airways Avenue.

To reach Graves Mountain Road, turn left onto Golden Isles Parkway (GA-99 N) and continue for 7 miles. 

Take the ramp towards Savannah and merge onto I-95 N. Continue for 40 miles on I-95 N, then take GA-57 exit 58, which leads to Townsend and Ludowici. Turn left onto Waycross Highway (GA-57 W) and continue for 21 miles. Take GA-169 N for 11 miles and turn right onto Midway Highway (GA-144 E). 

Continue for 22 miles, then take US-17 N and East Oglethorpe Highway. Turn left onto GA-119 N and follow GA-17 N for five miles. Graves Mountain Road should be on your left.

Graves Mountain in Georgia requires GPS or a detailed map for effective navigation. Use provided directions for general ideas, verify route using GPS or mapping service for accurate directions.

Things You Can Find in Graves Mountain

  • Gold Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens

5. Sapelo Island

In my experience, metal detecting in Sapelo Island is a thrilling adventure for those interested in uncovering hidden relics and artifacts. 

Sapelo Island Georgia
Sapelo Island Georgia

The island’s rich history, dating back to Native American settlements, Spanish explorers, and African-American Gullah-Geechee culture, makes it an ideal spot for discovering historical treasures. 

However, permits are required and the island’s ecosystem must be respected.

How To Get To Sapelo Island

To reach Sapelo Island in Georgia from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, combine ground transportation and a ferry, as Sapelo Island lacks a bridge connection.

To reach Sapelo Island, exit the airport and head southeast on Aviation Parkway. Turn onto Golden Isles Parkway (US-25 S) and follow it for 17 miles to Meridian, Georgia. 

From there, take the Sapelo Island Ferry to Sapelo Island. The schedule may vary, so check the ferry’s official website or contact them for the latest information. 

The ferry ride will take you to Sapelo Island, where you can explore the island and visit various points.

Ferry schedules may change, so check the Sapelo Island Visitor Center or the official website for current departure times and availability.

Things You Can Find in Sapelo Island

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

6. Etowah Indian Mounds

Metal detecting at the Etowah Indian Mounds in Cartersville, Georgia offers a unique opportunity to uncover the rich history of this ancient Native American site in my metal detecting journey. 

Etowah Indian Mounds Georgia
Etowah Indian Mounds Georgia

Built around 1000 years ago by the Mississippian culture, the mounds are protected and of great archaeological significance. 

However, strict regulations and permissions are required to explore the site.

How To Get To Etowah Indian Mounds  

To reach the Etowah Indian Mounds Historic Site in Georgia from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, head east on Aviation Drive, turn right onto GA-99 S/Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, continue for 3.5 miles, then merge onto I-95 N, stay on I-95 N for 41 miles, take exit 29 for GA-193 toward Eulonia, turn left onto GA-193 N, and follow for 14 miles. Look for signs and park entrances.

Directions from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport to Etowah Indian Mounds in Cartersville, Georgia. Travel times and conditions may vary, so check map or GPS for real-time updates.

Things You Can Find in Etowah Indian Mounds

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 
Rusted metal screw found when metal detecting in Georgia
Rusted metal screw found when metal detecting in Georgia

7. The Georgia Gold Belt

Metal detecting in the Georgia Gold Belt is a thrilling hobby for treasure hunters and history enthusiasts. 

This historic region, located in northern Georgia, was the site of the first major gold rush in the early 1800s. 

In my case, exploring old mining towns, creeks, and forests, one must obtain permits and follow local regulations for a responsible experience.

How To Get To The Georgia Gold Belt

Start at Brunswick Golden Isles Airport in Brunswick, Georgia. Head northwest on Aviation Parkway, turn left onto Stephen A. Williams Drive, and merge onto I-95 North. 

Continue on I-95 North for 75 miles. Take Exit 106 for US-84 W toward Jesup, turn left onto US-84 West for 23 miles, and turn right onto GA-121 North for 27 miles. 

You’ll be in or near the Georgia Gold Belt region.

The provided general directions for the Georgia Gold Belt are general and may vary depending on your destination. Always check real-time traffic and road conditions before your trip.

Things You Can Find in Georgia Gold Belt

  • Gold nuggets
  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

8. Cannon’s Point Preserve

Cannon’s Point Preserve in St. Simons Island, Georgia, offers a unique blend of history and outdoor exploration for metal detecting enthusiasts. 

The diverse landscapes reveal relics from colonial times and the Civil War era. 

The thrill of discovering hidden treasures is enticing, but preservation rules must be followed to protect the environment and historical artifacts.

How To Get To Cannon’s Point Preserve

To reach Cannon’s Point Preserve in Georgia, exit Brunswick Golden Isles Airport and head north on Aviation Parkway. 

Turn right onto Golden Isles Parkway (GA-99) for 4.5 miles, then take the second exit onto Harry Driggers Boulevard (GA-99) for 2.5 miles. 

Turn left onto Lawrence Road for 2 miles, then continue onto Cannon’s Point Lane for the preserve.

Cannon’s Point Preserve is at Cannon’s Point Lane end. Use GPS or a navigation app for real-time directions, as traffic and road conditions may affect the route.

Things You Can Find in Cannon’s Point Preserve

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

9. Tybee Island

Tybee Island, off the coast of Georgia, is a popular spot for metal detecting enthusiasts due to its rich history and military use. 

Tybee Island Georgia
Tybee Island Georgia

It offers me a diverse range of finds, including Civil War artifacts, lost jewelry, and coins. 

However, local regulations and permits are required before embarking on your treasure-hunting adventure.

How To Get To Tybee Island

To reach Tybee Island, Georgia from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, head southeast on Aviation Pkwy, turn right onto Mike Scanlan Blvd., merge onto I-95 N, take exit 99 for I-16 E, continue on I-16 E, and then take exit 167A to merge onto I-516 E/US-80 E toward Lynes Pkwy. Cross the Lazaretto Creek Bridge to reach the island. Follow signs and roadways to your destination. 

Use a navigation app like Google Maps or Waze for real-time directions, as traffic and road conditions may vary.

Things You Can Find in Tybee Island

  • Old coins
  • Civil War artifacts
  • Jewelry 
Did you know fact about places in Georgia
Did you know fact about places in Georgia

10. Berry College

Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia, offers a unique treasure-hunting experience for metal detectors. 

With a rich history dating back to 1902, the college offers me a variety of artifacts, including vintage coins and historical relics. 

However, permissions and rules must be obtained from the campus authorities for a respectful and responsible experience.

How To Get To Berry College 

To reach Berry College in Mount Berry, Georgia, exit Brunswick Golden Isles Airport and follow the signs to Interstate 95 North. 

Continue on I-95 North for 10 miles, then take Exit 38 for GA-38 toward Darien. Turn right onto GA-38 East and continue on this road. 

Merge onto US-17 North and continue on US-17 North for 62 miles. Continue on GA-104 West for 5 miles, then turn left onto US-27 North and continue for 4 miles. Berry College will be on your left. 

The journey from Brunswick to Mount Berry is approximately 10 miles.

The provided directions are approximate and may be influenced by road conditions or construction. It is recommended to use a navigation app or GPS device for real-time directions.

Things You Can Find in Berry College

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 
Soda can found when metal detecting in Georgia
Soda can found when metal detecting in Georgia

11. Griswoldville

Metal detecting in Griswoldville, a historic Civil War site in Georgia, offers a captivating journey through time. 

As I saw, the fields and woods are rich with relics, and discovering artifacts like bullets and buttons adds a sense of connection to the area’s history. 

This rewarding experience is perfect for history enthusiasts and treasure hunters, allowing them to piece together Griswoldville’s intriguing story.

How To Get To Griswoldville

To reach Griswoldville, Jones, Georgia from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, follow these general directions.

Keep in mind that road conditions and traffic can affect travel times, so check a mapping service like Google Maps or a GPS navigation system for real-time updates. Start by heading east on Airport Road, then take Exit 99 for GA-57 toward Townsend/Shellman Bluff. Turn right onto GA-57 East for 14 miles, then left onto US-17 North for 35 miles. Continue on US-17 North for 35 miles, then onto I-16 West for 60 miles. Take Exit 1 for GA-87 toward Macon/Gray and continue on GA-87 South for 3 miles.

The provided directions are approximate and should be verified with a navigation system for accurate and up-to-date information based on current traffic conditions.

Things You Can Find in Griswoldville

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

12. Savannah

Metal detecting in Savannah is a fascinating hobby that allows enthusiasts to uncover historical treasures in the city’s charming streets and parks. 

Savannah Georgia
Savannah Georgia

With a rich colonial history, treasure hunters can find old coins and Civil War relics. 

However, they must obtain permits and follow local regulations for a respectful exploration.

How To Get To Savannah

To reach Savannah, Georgia from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport, take I-95 north. Exit the airport and head west on Aviation Parkway toward Mike Hagan Dr., then merge onto I-95 North. 

Stay on I-95 North for 55 miles, passing through various exits and towns. Take Exit 99 for I-16 E toward Jim L Gillis Hwy/Savannah, then merge onto I-16 East for 7 miles. 

Take Exit 167A to merge onto I-516 East toward Savannah, then continue on I-516 East for a few miles, turning into GA-21 North/Dean Forest Road. 

Follow GA-21 North/Dean Forest Road into Savannah. Check for real-time traffic updates and road conditions before your trip.

Things You Can Find in Savannah

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

13. Kennesaw Mountain

Kennesaw Mountain, a Civil War battlefield in Georgia, offers a unique opportunity for metal-detecting enthusiasts to uncover historical artifacts and relics. 

Kennesaw Mountain Georgia
Kennesaw Mountain Georgia

However, it’s crucial to respect the site’s significance and follow local regulations to preserve this cherished piece of history.

How To Get To Kennesaw Mountain

The journey from Brunswick Golden Isles Airport (BQK) to Kennesaw Mountain in Georgia is approximately 240 miles and takes around 3.5 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. 

To reach the destination, exit BQK and head north on Aviation Parkway. Turn left onto GA-99 N / Golden Isles Parkway, then continue on I-95 N for about 60 miles. 

Take exit 99 to merge onto I-16 W toward Macon, then onto I-75 N for 150 miles. Take exit 267A to merge onto GA-5 N toward Canton/Rome, then onto I-575 N for 20 miles. Take exit 1 for Chastain Rd toward Kennesaw, then merge onto Chastain Road NW for 3 miles. 

Turn right onto Old 41 Hwy NW and follow it to Kennesaw Mountain National Battlefield Park. 

It is recommended to use a navigation app or GPS for real-time updates during your journey.

Things You Can Find in Kennesaw Mountain

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 
Tip for detecting metals in Georgia
Tip for detecting metals in Georgia

14. Fort McAllister

Metal detecting in Fort McAllister, a Civil War-era Confederate fort near Savannah, Georgia, offers a unique opportunity to uncover relics and artifacts from the past. 

Using a metal detector, I uncovered buttons, bullets, belt buckles, and other items belonging to soldiers who defended the site. Respecting the site’s historical significance is crucial.

How To Get To Fort McAllister

To reach Fort McAllister in Georgia, exit Brunswick Golden Isles Airport and head south on Aviation Parkway. Turn right onto GA-99 S and continue for 7.8 miles.

Turn left onto US-17 N and continue for 10.2 miles.

Take a slight right onto Fort McAllister Road and follow it to the entrance of Fort McAllister State Park. 

The journey should take 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Things You Can Find in Fort McAllister

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

15. Fort Pulaski

Fort Pulaski, a Georgian Civil War-era fort, offers a rewarding metal-detecting experience for enthusiasts. 

Fort Pulaski Georgia
Fort Pulaski Georgia

Exploring its grounds can uncover hidden treasures like artifacts and coins. 

However, adhering to park regulations and obtaining permits is crucial to preserve the site’s historical integrity. Respectful digging is essential to maintain the site’s significance.

How To Get To Fort Pulaski  

To reach Fort Pulaski in Savannah, Georgia, exit Brunswick Golden Isles Airport and head southwest on Aviation Parkway. 

Turn left onto US-17/US-82 and continue for 2 miles. Merge onto I-95 North and continue for 65 miles. Take Exit 99 for I-16 East toward Savannah and continue for 7 miles. Take Exit 167B and merge onto E President Street/US-80 East toward Tybee Island. Follow US-80 East for 12 miles. Fort Pulaski National Monument is on your right. 

Please note that traffic and road conditions may affect travel times, so check for real-time updates before your trip.

Things You Can Find in Fort Pulaski

  • Coins
  • Jewelry 
  • Lost items from other visitors 
  • Keys 
  • Tokens
  • Artifacts 

Map of Metal Detecting Friendly Places in Georgia

Are There Any Findable Hidden Treasures Buried Over the Years in Georgia?

Rich in history and blessed with beautiful scenery, Georgia is a wonderful state. There are several rumored hidden riches from the Civil War in Georgia. 

In order to prevent the Union Army from finding them, it is rumored that Confederate gold and silver coins were buried beneath Georgian soil. 

Some people wait to be found hiding in the shadows! 

Treasure seekers and metal detectorists are optimistic that these claims will be discovered soon, even though many of them have not yet been verified. 

You can also give this amazing treasure hunt a shot!

TreasureAbout 
Nashville Buried TreasureDuring the Civil War, $100,000 in gold was allegedly buried in a hollow near a spring on the Cobb County side of the Chattahoochee River, 300 yards northeast of the Nashville, Chattanooga, and St. Louis Railroad lines.
Jeremiah Griffin TreasureJeremiah Griffin, a plantation owner, is accused of burying $100,000 in gold near a creek, but died in 1847 without revealing his fortune’s location.
The Jefferson Davis Buried GoldIt is reported that $10 million worth of gold bullion was buried by Confederate President Jefferson Davis in Wilkes County.
Savannah Million Dollar TreasureSavannah may have hidden treasure worth millions, but many valuables were buried before Sherman’s army arrived, and many were unfound due to the city’s devastation.

Congrats folks! Now you know all the best places to metal detect in Georgia with the historical value of those locations and what treasures that are highly likely to be found.

Now I’m going to tell you several tips that I learned while I was metal detecting in Georgia which helped me to find cool treasures without messing things up.

Some of the below tips were collected from my friendly local expert detectorists in Georgia.

So, just keep reading!

Tips For Metal Detecting In Georgia 

As someone who has loved metal detecting since I was a child, I can attest to the fact that it is a hobby that can be lucrative in Georgia, with the possibility of discovering treasures and artifacts that provide further insight into the past of the state.

I’m going to give you some advice now that will make your metal-detecting experience in Georgia much simpler because it’s all based on my actual experiences there.

Additional advice was obtained from knowledgeable neighborhood Georgian metal detectorists.

Continue reading!

  • Georgia has a lot of restrictions and laws regarding metal detecting. Therefore, I advise you to double-check that you are abiding by the law. It will assist you in avoiding steep fines.
  • It is imperative that you are aware that metal detecting is not permitted at all on any state-owned property.
  • From my personal experience, you will require a federal permit if you intend to engage in metal detecting on any of the federal properties in Georgia.
  • According to what I understand, metal detecting and collecting artifacts on privately owned land are only permitted with the express written consent of the landowner.
  • Before metal detecting in waterways or along beaches, you should, in my opinion, determine who the land’s owner is because they may be a private or public entity.
  • You should consult the Georgia Archaeological Site File if you want to know where in Georgia important archaeological sites have been found.
  • I suggest that you alert the appropriate authorities if you happen to find any archaeological artifacts. You will need to contact the University of Georgia Laboratory of Archaeology in order to accomplish this.
  • Certain restrictions, including those pertaining to the use of metal-detecting equipment, are lifted for archaeologists who are properly licensed and approved.
  • According to my years of experience, the best places to start when trying to determine the precise nature of a mystery artifact discovered using metal detecting are a university’s anthropology department, the Society for Georgia Archaeology, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources through photography, or a local library’s research area.
  • You must make sure that you have the required permits and approvals from each location before deciding that you would like to go metal detecting across towns, cities, or even countries.
  • Based on my observations, although metal detecting is allowed in city parks, shovels and other digging implements are not. Because of this, you’ll have to settle for whatever you can find on the surface.
  • It is advisable that you become active in a nearby metal-detecting club. Joining one of these clubs and interacting with members will help you develop as a metal detectorist and increase your understanding of the laws and guidelines.
  • Own necessary metal detecting tools, including sunscreen, shovel, scoop, and supplies for two to three hours, along with the metal detector.
  • Avoid disturbing the natural beauty of places by avoiding tampering with their landscape and closing or filling any holes made on them.
Tip for detecting metals in Georgia state
Tip for detecting metals in Georgia state

Metal Detecting Laws in Georgia 

As long as you abide by the law, metal detecting is acceptable to detect in Georgia! 

You have to make sure that you abide by the State Laws of Antiquities when conducting your detection work there.

The United States Congress passed the Antiquities Act in 1906 to safeguard all archaeological resources situated on public lands. 

Anyone found to have intentionally looted or vandalized an archaeological site is subject to legal consequences.

If you break the law, you may face harsh penalties, the seizure of your detector, or even jail time.

In addition to this, Georgian detectorists must abide by the Federal Archaeological Resource Preservation Act (ARPA) Law. 

This law establishes guidelines for the excavation and removal of any archaeological artifacts in each state.

 Is it Legal to Metal Detect in Georgia State Parks?

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources states that metal detecting is prohibited on all state parks.

Metal detectorists are not permitted in state parks or historic sites. County Manager Jim Wheeless mentioned in a 2015 county meeting that a lot of people had asked questions concerning metal detecting in state parks. 

The Department of Natural Resources has banned the use of metal detectors on state lands, citing the state’s stance against disturbing artifacts. 

The DNR website states that wildlife, plant life, driftwood, and other natural or man-made features are protected and cannot be disturbed, and possession of metal detecting equipment is strictly prohibited.

To detect metals, it’s best to find privately owned lands and contact property owners for permission. 

Georgia has 1.7 million acres of public land, but only 5% of the state’s total. Ensure proper permits and permissions are obtained on public lands.

 Is it Legal to Metal Detect in Georgia Ghost Towns?

Treasure seekers searching for vintage coins, jewelry, and artifacts will find plenty of opportunities in the ghost towns. 

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that you must always have the required authorizations and follow all applicable laws when metal detecting. 

Although a lot of ghost towns are situated on private land, it’s usually not too hard to obtain permission to go treasure hunting. 

Enjoy your exciting metal-detecting expeditions, but keep in mind to respect the property owner’s guidelines and preserve the sites’ historical and cultural significance.

Is it Legal to Metal Detect on Georgia Beaches?

It’s important to find out who owns the land when metal detecting on Georgian beaches because it could be a government agency or privately held. 

In Georgia, landowner information can be obtained by contacting the Brunswick, Georgia, DNR Law Enforcement Region VII Office.

Archaeologists in Georgia, in compliance with the National Historic Preservation Act, are exempt from certain restrictions but must obtain landowner permission and permits to work on state or federal lands. 

The Georgia Archaeological Site File, located on the University of Georgia campus, displays archaeological sites in Georgia. 

Reporting archaeological finds can be done online, by visiting the University, over the phone, or via email.

So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.

FAQs

What are the legal requirements for metal detecting in Georgia?

In Georgia, metal detecting is legal but you must adhere to the State Laws of Antiquities and avoid detecting on state lands or historical sites without permission.

Is it possible to find gold while metal detecting in Georgia?

Yes, gold prospecting is common in Georgia, especially in rivers like the Etowah, Little, and Chattahoochee, where gold nuggets can still be found.

What type of metal detector is suitable for Georgia’s soil?

Detectors like the Minelab Excalibur II are ideal, offering good ground balance and discrimination suitable for Georgia’s highly mineralized soil.

Where can I buy metal detecting equipment in Georgia?

There are several stores throughout Georgia that sell metal detecting equipment and accessories, catering to a range of needs and preferences.

Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Places to Metal Detect in Georgia

In this article, I deeply discussed the best places to metal detect in Georgia with their maps and tips for you to succeed in Georgia.

The best places to metal detect in Georgia include Central City Park, old school grounds, Crumps Park, Camp Wheeler, and various historic churches. These locations are favored for finding relics, coins, and artifacts, reflecting Georgia’s rich historical tapestry from Native American and Civil War eras.

Furthermore, I answered some frequently asked questions.

Hope you learned all you wanted to know about the best places to metal detect in Georgia including experts’ tips.

Travel to the mentioned places and share your metal detecting experience with the community to become a pro detectorist in Georgia. Happy treasure hunting!

Hi! I’m the treasure hunter and adventurer behind DetectingTreasures.com. I'm here to share my knowledge, inspire your adventures, and provide practical guides to help you succeed in your own treasure hunting journey. Read More...

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