Ever wondered what treasures Maryland’s diverse landscapes hide? Join us on a journey through the state’s best metal detecting spots, where history and adventure meet!
I spotted considerable potential and space for metal detectorists in Maryland during my 2015 visit.
Despite my brief stay, I was determined to return for treasure hunting in my spare time.
Since relocating to the state, I’ve familiarized myself with its metal detecting laws and regulations, as well as notable locations for the activity.
I joined local expert detectorists to explore specific sites, including state parks, beaches, and ghost towns.
Thanks to their knowledge, I discovered many treasures. Drawing from my experiences and recommendations from informed Marylanders, I identified the best state parks, beaches, and ghost towns for effective metal detecting.
So, here are the Best Places to Metal Detect in Maryland,
- Sandy Point State Park
- Ocean City Beach
- Assateague State Park
- Bainbridge Naval Base
- Rocky Gap State Park
- Deep Creek Lake State Park
- Greenbrier State Park
- Herrington Manor State Park
- Harmony Grove
- Riverdale Town Square
But that’s just a quick overview of the locations!
So, in this article, I’ll explore the best places to metal detect in Maryland in detail with their historical importance and what treasures are likely to be found.
Plus, I’ll tell you all the metal detecting rules and regulations in Maryland you need to follow to stay out of any trouble.
So, let’s get started!
Best Places to Metal Detect in Maryland
Metal detecting is great in Maryland! Maryland also referred to as “Little America“, offers a remarkably varied range of surroundings, including farms, dunes, beaches, mountains, and forests.
Maryland was an important player in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War.
The state may potentially contain artifacts from Native Americans. Given that permits are needed in almost every state, Maryland can be a challenging place to metal detect in.
So come along with me on this adventure as I discuss metal detecting in Maryland.
1. Sandy Point State Park
Sandy Point State Park is situated in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, on the western side of the Chesapeake Bay. In 1952, this area was designated as a state park.
A lot of people visit the park every year because it’s well-liked by the community. Owing to its lengthy and well-established past, the park provides lots of opportunities for metal detecting.
To visit the park, you must obtain authorization, and that permission will permit you to use metal detecting for pleasure. This is clearly stated in their metal detecting policy.
It follows that you are unable to retrieve sensitive material from the state park.
There are many of things to do at this popular beach because it is popular with tourists.
Numerous enjoyable and thrilling recreational activities, including fishing, surfing, boat riding, and many more, are permitted by the state park officials within the park.
Because it’s a busy park, time your detection for early in the morning or late at night. Large groups of people will be less likely to cause disturbances on the beach.
Because of the above reasons, Sandy Point State Park can be considered one of the best state parks in Maryland to metal detect.
Location
On the western side of the Chesapeake Bay, in Annapolis, Maryland, is Sandy Point State Park.
How to Get Into Sandy Point State Park
The distance between Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Sandy Point State Park is roughly thirty miles east.
You can take I-97 South and follow the signs to Sandy Point State Park to get to the park from the airport.
Things You Can Find In Sandy Point State Park
- Antique Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
- Civil War Relics
2. Ocean City Beach
Popular seaside destination Ocean City, Maryland, is well-known for its lively boardwalk, gorgeous sandy beaches, and abundance of outdoor activities.
Although metal detecting is normally permitted on Ocean City beaches, there are a few key guidelines and things to remember.
The beach at Ocean City is a ten-mile stretch of immaculate sand that extends along Maryland’s eastern shore.
It is a family-friendly location with lots of facilities, such as public restrooms, lifeguards on duty in the summer, and lots of eateries and retail establishments close by.
The beach is popular for swimming, tanning, and making sandcastles because it is kept up nicely.
In regards to metal detecting, it’s a favorite pastime of many Ocean City beachgoers.
Finding lost riches, coins, jewels, and other artifacts hidden beneath the sand can be an intriguing way to spend your time.
I came to know about Ocen City Beach through a metal detecting club expert in Maryland who held an event on the beach for metal detecting enthusiasts.
I was super lucky because I was able to find many treasures there! Right person, right place at the right time. wink!
Location
Located on the Atlantic coast in Ocean City, Maryland, lies Ocean City Beach.
How to Get Into Ocean City Beach
The distance between Baltimore or Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) and Ocean City Beach is approximately 135 miles east.
Take US-50 East from the airport to get to Ocean City, it will take you there directly.
Things You Can Find In Ocean City Beach
- Antique Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
- Civil War Relics
3. Assateague State Park
Located in Maryland, on the stunning island of Assateague, is Assateague State Park.
The beach also provides guests with scenic splendor with its breathtakingly beautiful beaches, salt marshes, and dunes.
In 1956, this area was designated as a park. With frequent sightings of birds, wild horses, and other species, this area is primarily rich in biodiversity.
As a result, birdwatchers, nature lovers, and other biologists particularly like this location.
Metal detecting permits are also available at the state park.
You can check the beach and its environs with permission, and keep an eye out for areas where people congregate, such as the entrance, shaded spots, towel lines, and low-water regions.
The greatest chance of finding stuff is in these regions because of the volume of traffic they get.
Because there is a lot of biodiversity in this area, make sure that your actions do not negatively impact the environment.
For those who are interested, metal detecting can enhance the natural beauty of the park by providing an additional avenue for exploration and learning.
Location
Assateague Island, which shares a border with Virginia and Maryland, is home to Assateague State Park. Assateague State Park is located on the Maryland portion of the island.
How to Get Into Assateague State Park
Located on Assateague Island, about 150 miles southeast of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), is Assateague State Park. By traveling US-50 East to Ocean City and then crossing over to the island, you may get to Assateague Island.
Things You Can Find In Assateague State Park.
- Civil War Relics
- Lost Personal Items
- Native American Artifacts
- Jewels
4. Bainbridge Naval Base
The Port Deposit, Maryland-based Bainbridge military Base has a long history as a military training facility.
The history of the installation, as well as the fact that it was originally a restricted military site, had consequences for metal detecting in the area.
Founded during World War I, Cecil County, Maryland, is the current private owner and operator of the base.
Metal detecting is usually allowed with permission due to the site’s past as a military installation and the possible presence of dangerous or sensitive items.
Visitors should not go treasure hunting without the appropriate permits.
Location
Located in Port Deposit, Maryland, was the former Bainbridge Naval Base, formerly called the US Naval Training Center Bainbridge.
It is located near the Susquehanna River and was used as a naval training camp.
How to Get Into Bainbridge Naval Base
Approximately 60 miles northeast of Baltimore or Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is the former Bainbridge Naval Base in Port Deposit, Maryland.
By traveling on I-95 North and then following the directions to the former naval installation, you may get to Port Deposit.
Things You Can Find In Bainbridge Naval Base
- Civil War Relics
- Lost Personal Items
- Native American Artifacts
- Jewels
5. Rocky Gap State Park
Situated in Allegany County, Rocky Gap State Park offers views of the neighboring Rocky Mountains.
This park is well-known for its hiking routes, and there are other recreational opportunities available around the lake.
Since it was designated as a park in 1974, hikers all across the country have found this to be a popular destination.
Although hiking is the park’s primary activity, visitors are also welcome to engage in swimming, fishing, kayaking, and bird watching.
Metal detectors are allowed to be used inside the state park for recreational purposes. The state park officers manning the gate or the local government can grant you authorization.
Location
Rocky Gap State Park is situated in the western region of the state, in Flintstone, Maryland.
How to Get Into Rocky Gap State Park
About 140 miles to the west of Baltimore or Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) is Rocky Gap State Park.
You can take I-70 West, I-68 West, and follow the signs to Rocky Gap State Park near Flintstone, Maryland, to get to the park from the airport.
Things You Can Find In Rocky Gap State Park
- Antique Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
- Civil War Relics
6. Deep Creek Lake State Park
The largest freshwater lake in Maryland is called Deep Creek Lake. Garrett County’s Deep Creek Lake is encircled by Deep Creek Lake State Park.
This state park was founded in 1959 and has a large number of annual visitors.
There are many leisure opportunities in the garden, such as boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, which draws more and more visitors.
There are many different land- and water-based activities available in this park. One of them is also Metal detection.
Get in touch with a park official to obtain a permit to engage in metal detecting.
With the license, you can find out which parts of the park are acceptable and how long you can use the metal detector.
Location
In the western portion of the state, close to Oakland, Maryland, is Deep Creek Lake State Park.
How to Get Into Deep Creek Lake State Park
The location of Deep Creek Lake State Park is in western Maryland. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), located in Pennsylvania, is the closest major airport to Deep Creek Lake State Park.
It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to travel the roughly 90 miles from PIT to Deep Creek Lake State Park.
Things You Can Find In Deep Creek Lake State Park
- Civil War Relics
- Lost Personal Items
- Native American Artifacts
- Jewels
7. Greenbrier State ParkÂ
The location of Greenbrier State Park is in Washington County. The 42-acre artificial lake located within this park is well-known.
The park’s hiking routes are well-known among the hiking community.
A wide range of recreational activities are permitted within the park by the state park authority. These pursuits include hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, and many more.
State park officials also permit metal detecting.
Since the park’s establishment in 1960, a large number of people have come to enjoy the outdoors and a variety of leisure activities.
Thus, one of the greatest places to detect metal in state parks is Greenbrier State Park.
Location
Situated in the western region of Maryland, close to Boonsboro, is Greenbrier State Park.
How to Get Into Greenbrier State Park
Maryland’s western region is home to Greenbrier State Park. Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), Baltimore/Washington International, is the closest major airport to Greenbrier State Park.
Greenbrier State Park is roughly 65 miles away from BWI and may be reached by driving in 1.5 hours.
Things You Can Find In Greenbrier State Park
- Antique Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
- Civil War Relics
8. Herrington Manor State Park
Situated in the gorgeous Garrett County, Maryland, Herrington Manor State Park is a serene and stunning park that provides a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors.
It’s important to remember that metal detecting is typically prohibited in the park’s swimming area and beach, despite the park’s fame for its hiking paths, picnic spaces, and a breathtaking 53-acre lake.
Along the shores of Herrington Lake, Herrington Manor State Park has a sandy beach that is a tranquil place to swim, sunbathe, and take in the park’s natural beauty.
Outdoor enthusiasts frequently visit the lake since it’s a great place to go fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.
Location
Herrington Manor State Park is located close to Oakland in western Maryland.
How to Get Into Herrington Manor State Park
Western Maryland is also home to Herrington Manor State Park. Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT), located in Pennsylvania, is the nearest large airport to Herrington Manor State Park.
Herrington Manor State Park is around 100 miles away from PIT and can be reached by driving in two hours.
Things You Can Find In Herrington Manor State Park
- Civil War Relics
- Lost Personal Items
- Native American Artifacts
- Jewels
9. Harmony Grove
Harmony Grove is a fantastic location in Maryland for treasure hunting.
One of the most well-liked ghost towns in the state for metal detectorists is Harmony Grove. Harmony Grove was founded in the 1800s, and its mill provided the town’s financial stability.
It quickly grew to incorporate additional buildings, services, and even a railroad! The community was left bankrupt after the mill shuttered in the 1960s.
The only things that remain of Harmony Grove today are its crumbling buildings and its abandoned train tracks.
Metal detectorists frequently come across artifacts left behind by the town’s previous residents.
Location
A small unincorporated village called Harmony Grove is found in Carroll County, Maryland, in the United States. It is located in the state’s middle region.
How to Get Into Harmony Grove
Maryland’s Harmony Grove is a tiny town. Baltimore or Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), which is roughly 15 miles distant and takes about 30 minutes to drive to, is the closest major airport.
Things You Can Find In Harmony Grove
- Civil War Relics
- Lost Personal Items
- Native American Artifacts
- Jewels
10. Riverdale Town Square
In the Maryland hamlet of Riverdale Park, there is a bustling public square called Riverdale Town Square.
It should be made clear that Riverdale Town Square does not have a beach, despite the fact that it provides a variety of recreational opportunities and events.
Instead, it serves as a town square with a central park, a pavilion, and a variety of businesses, serving as a hub for both locals and tourists.
The laws governing metal detecting in Riverdale Town Square can change based on the particular guidelines set forth by the local government.
Metal detecting is allowed in some public areas, but you should check with the park or local government to be sure you are following any applicable regulations.
It is important to obtain the required licenses and be aware of any specified places where metal detecting is permitted before participating in any metal detecting activity in Riverdale Town Square or any other public space.
Location
Riverdale, Maryland, which is in Prince George’s County, is home to Riverdale Town Square.
How to Get Into Riverdale Town Square
Situated in Riverdale, Maryland, Riverdale Town Square is a component of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region. Washington National Airport (DCA) is the major airport nearest to Riverdale Town Square.
The distance from the airport is about 12 miles, and the travel takes 20 to 25 minutes.
Things You Can Find In Riverdale Town Square
- Antique Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
- Civil War Relics
Map of Metal Detecting Friendly Places in Maryland
Congrats folks! Now you know all the best places to metal detect in Maryland with the metal detecting techniques you should follow to find treasures.
Now I’m going to tell you several tips from my experience in metal detecting in Maryland.
The below tips helped me to find cool treasures and to avoid many troubles that can commonly occur when metal detecting They’ll be helpful for you as well.
Some of the below tips were collected from local metal detectorists listening to their stories.
So, just keep reading!
Tips for Visiting Metal Detecting Places in Maryland
- Research each location’s specific rules and hours of operation.
- Plan visits during off-peak hours for less crowded conditions.
- Respect all posted signs and environmental guidelines.
- Bring appropriate gear for varying terrains and weather conditions.
- Always fill in any holes and leave the area as you found it.
Metal Detecting Laws in Maryland
There are varying rules about metal detecting depending on where in Maryland you occupy.
Furthermore, any digging or other environmental disturbance may be illegal, and any valuable discoveries must be properly reported to the appropriate authorities.
Metal detecting in Maryland requires observing local laws, safeguarding the environment, and securing any required licenses or permissions.
Let’s look into specific locations to see if metal detecting is permitted.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on Maryland State Parks?
Yes, Metal detecting is allowed in Maryland State Parks, but you need to have permission from park authorities.
In Maryland, authorization is necessary for metal detecting operations, just like it is for any other operation.
You can only use a metal detector to partially enter several state parks in Maryland.
The majority of Maryland’s state parks are overseen by state park officials. These authorities are in charge of granting authorization and licenses for metal detecting.
However, a small number of Maryland state parks such as Calvert Cliffs State Park and Point Lookout State Park forbid metal detecting within their boundaries.
The state park officials can provide these permits, and each one will set you back roughly $10 to $12.
You are only permitted to search for recent discoveries that are hidden beneath the earth using these permits.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on Maryland Beaches?
Yes, Metal detecting is allowed in Maryland Beaches, but depending on the county or municipality where the beach is located, different rules may apply.
Although metal detecting is normally permitted on Maryland beaches, you should be aware that there can be rules and restrictions in place.
There can be limitations on where and when you can metal detect in some places, or you might need a permit.
While metal detecting, it’s important to show consideration for the surrounding area and other beachgoers.
Always fill in any holes you dig, dispose of rubbish properly, and abide by any other rules or codes of conduct that the beach authorities may have established.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on Maryland Ghost Towns?
Yes, Metal detecting is allowed in Maryland Ghost Towns, but before beginning any metal-detecting activity, it is important to do research and get permission from the relevant authorities, as each ghost town site may have its unique set of regulations.
Regulations governing metal detecting in Maryland ghost towns could differ from those governing metal detecting on public beaches.
You might start by looking into the particular ghost town you are interested in visiting to find out if metal detecting is permitted in Maryland ghost towns.
To find out if any permits or permissions are needed for metal detecting, find out who owns or administers the location and get in touch with them.
In Maryland, metal detectorists have recovered numerous Civil War relics, including buttons, bullets, and coins, reflecting the state’s rich history in American Civil War sites.
www.latimes.com
So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
FAQs
What are the main legal considerations for metal detecting in Maryland?
Metal detecting in Maryland requires adhering to ARPA and NHCA regulations, and detectors must obtain a permit, especially when searching for historical relics.
Are there any specific metal detectors recommended for Maryland’s soil?
The Minelab Excalibur II is highly recommended for Maryland, especially for beach detecting, due to its ability to handle high mineralization and iron content.
Is it possible to find gold while metal detecting in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland has a history of gold mining, and detectors can find gold, particularly in areas like the Potomac region and historic gold mines.
Can metal detecting enthusiasts find historical relics in Maryland?
Yes, Maryland is rich in historical relics, especially in areas less affected by modern development, like inland locations away from beaches.
Do private properties in Maryland allow metal detecting?
Metal detecting on private properties in Maryland requires the explicit permission of the property owner, even if you have a state permit.
What are some common finds when metal detecting in Maryland?
Common finds in Maryland include coins, historical relics, and in certain areas, traces of gold and artifacts from various historical eras.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Places in Maryland to Metal Detect
In this article, I deeply discussed the best places to metal detect in Maryland with all the rules and regulations you should follow in each location.
The best places to metal detect in Maryland include Sandy Point State Park, Assateague State Park, Deep Creek Lake State Park, Greenbrier State Park, Janes Island State Park, Rocky Gap State Park, Herrington Manor State Park, North Beach, Chesapeake Beach, and Harmony Grove.
Plus, I described how you can get to each location from the nearest airport as well.
Hope you learned all you wanted to know about the best places to metal detect in Maryland including experts’ tips.
Don’t forget to mention your metal-detecting stories in the comments section, in addition to the things mentioned in the article. Happy treasure hunting in scenic Maryland!
