Ever wondered what treasures lie hidden beneath New Jersey’s rich soil? Join us as we uncover the top metal detecting spots in this historic state!
New Jersey was first occupied by Lenni-Lenape Native Americans, then by Dutch settlers and those who arrived when the state was admitted to the United States.
Throughout the state, the Revolutionary War and the Civil War left their scars.
New Jersey is home to many treasure stories, and you might even want to try finding a real one.
In 2019, I had the opportunity to travel across New Jersey for metal detecting sessions in various areas, including beaches and other sites.
During those trips, I met expert local metal detectorists and visited the places they recommended for finding treasures.
Based on my experience and the data I collected from New Jerseyans, let me share with you the best locations for treasure hunting.
Here are the best places to metal detect in New Jersey,
- Point Pleasant Beach
- Cape May Beach
- Atlantic City Beach
- Ocean City Beach
- Swartswood State Park
- Belleplain State Park
- Parvin State Park
- Allaire Village
- Asbury Park
- Batsto Village
- Bass River
- Back Creek
But that’s just a quick snapshot of the locations!
So, in this article, I’ll explore the best places to metal detect in New Jersey with their historical value and what treasures are likely to be found in each area.
Plus, I’ll tell you the exact route to get to each place from the nearest airport which is super important for travelers.
Let’s jump in!
Best Places to Metal Detect in New Jersey
One of the best states for finding hidden objects and using metal detectors is New Jersey. The area is rich in undiscovered jewels and gold, and the weather is excellent for metal detecting.
The beaches, rivers, ghost towns, and state parks of the state increase the enjoyment of metal detecting.
During your hunt, you can come across diamonds, money, artifacts from the American Civil War, or even gold nuggets.
I’ve traveled to each of these places and am here to tell you about my metal-detecting adventures there. In addition, I’ll show you how to go to each of these places.
So join me on this journey as I talk about metal detecting in New Jersey.
1. Point Pleasant Beach
Beaches like Point Pleasant Beach, which has a renowned coastline, provide plenty of opportunities for metal detecting.
This family-friendly beach offers a miniature golf course, a mile-long boardwalk, food stands, and restaurants.
Near the shore are the hotel and commercial areas, as well as pubs, nightclubs, and a comedy club.
Due to the popularity of Point Pleasant Beach among locals and tourists alike, you have a decent chance of finding lost items there.
As per my experience, Point Pleasant Beach is one of the best metal-detecting beaches in New Jersey.
Take your metal detector under the Point Pleasant boardwalk for a wonderful adventure.
Location
The beachside community of Point Pleasant Beach is well-known in New Jersey, USA. It may be found in Ocean County, which is on the state’s eastern coast and faces the Atlantic Ocean.
How to Get Into Point Pleasant Beach
One of the main airports serving the area, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), is located about 60 miles east of Point Pleasant Beach in New Jersey.
The Garden State Parkway South, which offers quick access to the city, is often the best route to use to get to Point Pleasant Beach from Newark Liberty International Airport.
Things You Can Find In Point Pleasant Beach
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
2. Cape May Beach
In Cape May, there are a number of beaches, including those at Broadway, Windsor, The Cove, Madison, and Baltimore.
Cape May has beaches that are suitable for families. All of them are easily accessible by foot from eateries, restrooms, and other services.
The beaches in Cape May are popular locations for kayaking, fishing, volleyball games, barbecues, and other water sports.
Cape May’s beaches present a fantastic opportunity for metal detecting. The sandy areas surrounding beaches are the best places to search for loot.
Metal-detecting might be enjoyable to do in Cape May Beach as well. I’d like to say that this is the ideal location for metal detecting.
Location
Popular beach area Cape May Beach is situated near Cape May, New Jersey, in the United States. Cape May is a lovely coastal hamlet located on New Jersey’s Cape May Peninsula.
How to Get Into Cape May Beach
The closest major airport to Cape May is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is about 44 miles northeast of Cape May. Cape May Beach is situated in Cape May, New Jersey.
The Garden State Parkway South offers a convenient and picturesque route to this quaint coastal town, making it easy to get to Cape May Beach from the airport.
Things You Can Find In Cape May Beach
- Civil War Relics
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Antique Artifacts
Check out the Best Metal Detecting Finds in New Jersey!
3. Atlantic City Beach
Metal detecting enthusiasts can enjoy a lovely seaside backdrop at Atlantic City Beach in New Jersey.
This location offers plenty of options for this interesting activity because to its extensive sandy shoreline along the Atlantic Ocean.
Due to its popularity, Atlantic City Beach may be a fruitful spot for discovering a variety of goods, including misplaced jewelry, coins, and different metal bits.
You’ll need a metal detector, a sand scoop, a bag for holding items, and possibly a small shovel to start.
Keep an eye out for any holes and properly dispose of waste while focusing your efforts close to the seashore and well-liked meeting places.
Maintain ethical standards while detecting and showing consideration for the beachgoers’ privacy and interests.
Location
In Atlantic City, New Jersey, the United States, there is this popular beach called Atlantic City Beach.
It extends along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and is close to the well-known Atlantic City Boardwalk.
How to Get Into Atlantic City Beach
The closest large airport to Atlantic City Beach is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is conveniently located just a few miles northwest of the city.
Atlantic City Beach is located in Atlantic City, New Jersey.
You can use the Atlantic City Expressway to travel from Atlantic City International Airport to Atlantic City Beach.
Things You Can Find In Atlantic City Beach
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
4. Ocean City Beach
There are eight miles of year-round, white sand beaches in Ocean City Beach. This is a popular hangout for families, fishermen, and surfers alike.
When visiting Ocean City, beach tags are required for all visitors aged 12 and older.
It is possible to utilize tags for the day, the week, or the season. In addition, you can purchase them at the city hall, welcome center, information center, and post office.
This beach is popular with both locals and tourists, particularly in the summer.
The more individuals who visit a location, the greater your chance of using your metal detector to find lost treasure is.
The shops and sellers outside the beach, the towel line on the beach, the low-water region, and even the dunes are all possible focal points.
The greatest chance of recovering missing items is at these places.
Location
Popular beachfront destination Ocean City Beach is situated in Ocean City, Maryland, in the United States.
It has lovely sandy beaches and a traditional beach town vibe and is located on a barrier island in the Atlantic Ocean.
How to Get Into Ocean City Beach
Ocean City, Maryland, is home to Ocean City Beach. Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport (SBY), which is roughly 30 miles to the west, is the closest airport to Ocean City.
Normally, you can take US-50 East to go to Ocean City Beach from Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport. This road is a convenient route for vacationers as it leads directly to Ocean City.
Things You Can Find In Ocean City Beach
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
5. Swartswood State Park
Swartswood State Park, located in the center of New Jersey, provides outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers with a tranquil and gorgeous respite.
The third-largest natural lake in the state and the park’s magnificent Swartswood Lake offer a variety of recreational options, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
Metal detecting is allowed inside the park but there are restrictions, even though Swartswood State Park encourages visitors to explore its stunning natural surroundings.
Before you metal detect here, make sure you get the required permissions from the authorities because New Jersey State Parks have strict Rules and regulations.
Swartswood State Park offers specific locations for metal detector hobbyists to hunt for hidden artifacts, money, and historical artifacts.
The combination of natural beauty and the excitement of discovery provides tourists with a one-of-a-kind experience.
Location
In the United States, Swartswood State Park is situated in northern New Jersey. It is located in Sussex County’s Stillwater Township, close to the community of Swartswood.
How to Get Into Swartswood State Park
Northern New Jersey is home to Swartswood State Park, and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is the nearest sizable airport to the park.
From Newark Liberty International Airport, travel I-78 West to NJ-24 West, then I-287 North, and then NJ-206 North to reach Swartswood State Park.
The park offers a serene natural setting close to the town of Swartswood in Sussex County.
Things You Can Find In Swartswood State Park
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
6. Belleplain State Park
A natural wonderland that beckons to outdoor enthusiasts and environment lovers is Belleplain State Park, which is situated in the charming southern section of New Jersey.
The park’s varied landscapes, which include deep woods, tranquil lakes, and pure meadows, offer a peaceful respite from the bustle of city life.
Metal detecting is an intriguing and well-liked pastime at Belleplain State Park.
The park’s extensive sandy regions and fascinating history make it the perfect location for hobbyists and treasure hunters.
Before you metal detect here, make sure you take the required permissions from the authorities because New Jersey State Parks have strict Rules and regulations.
Location
Southern New Jersey, in the USA, is where Belleplain State Park is located. It is situated in Cape May County, not far from the Jersey Shore and close to the town of Woodbine.
How to Get Into Belleplain State Park
The closest large airport to Belleplain State Park is Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is about 35 miles southeast of the park.
Belleplain State Park is situated in southern New Jersey.
You can usually take NJ-54 South, which will connect you to NJ-50 South and finally Route 550 East, to get to Belleplain State Park from Atlantic City International Airport. You may reach the park by using this path.
Things You Can Find In Belleplain State Park
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
7. Parvin State Park
Parvin State Park, located in the center of southern New Jersey, provides a calm getaway into nature’s beauty with its serene lakes, rich woodlands, and various fauna.
The park offers a thrilling opportunity for metal-detecting enthusiasts to explore and find lost treasures.
The rules and restrictions relevant to the park must be familiarized with before beginning your metal detecting trip.
Before you metal detect here, make sure you get the required permissions from the authorities because New Jersey State Parks have strict Rules and regulations.
While exploring Parvin State Park, you can come upon a variety of items, from lost pennies to unusual antiques, so be sure to keep an eye out and follow the park’s policies and conservation initiatives.
Location
In the USA, the Parvin State Park is situated in southern New Jersey. It is located in Salem County’s Pittsgrove Township.
How to Get Into Parvin State Park
The closest large airport to Parvin State Park is Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which is about 35 miles to the northeast of the park. Parvin State Park is situated in southern New Jersey.
You can take I-95 South and then I-295 South, crossing into New Jersey, to go from Philadelphia International Airport to Parvin State Park.
After there, travel south on NJ-42 and south on NJ-55 to reach NJ-56. To access the park, follow the signs.
Things You Can Find In Parvin State Park
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Antique Artifacts
8. Allaire Village
Allaire Village is a wonderful historical site that encourages tourists to travel back in time and experience life in the 19th century. It is located in Wall Township, New Jersey.
While the village itself is a historical treasure trove, there are a few things to keep in mind when metal detecting here. Learn about the site’s particular metal-detecting rules and restrictions before starting your treasure quest.
There may be different rules in effect for some historical sites and parks, but these rules must be seriously followed.
Allaire Village is significant historically, thus it’s important to take precautions to preserve the integrity of historic buildings and artifacts and to respect the surrounding environment.
Here, metal detecting can be an interesting activity with the potential to find historical artifacts.
Location
A historical site called Allaire Village can be found in New Jersey, USA. It is located in Wall Township, Monmouth County, and is a part of Allaire State Park.
How to Get Into Allaire Village
One of the main airports serving the area, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), is about 45 miles east of Allaire Village in Wall Township, New Jersey.
From Newark Liberty International Airport, take the Garden State Parkway South and exit at Exit 98 for Route 138 East to get to Allaire Village. Follow the directions for the village and Allaire State Park from there.
Things You Can Find In Allaire Village
- Native American Artifacts
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
9. Asbury Park
Asbury Park, a seaside city in New Jersey, is well known for its thriving boardwalk, lively nightlife, and significant cultural past.
Metal-detecting aficionados flock to this well-known location in hopes of finding undiscovered treasures beneath its sandy coastlines.
To be safe, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Asbury Park’s rules and regulations before starting a metal detecting expedition there.
Metal detecting regulations can change, therefore it’s important to understand and abide by current regulations.
With its blend of historical and modern attractions, Asbury Park makes for an exciting setting for metal detecting.
Here, you might find everything from lost jewelry and coins to intriguing trinkets while taking in the distinct beauty of this seaside town.
Location
Popular beach community Asbury Park is found in New Jersey, USA. It is located in the middle of the Jersey Shore, in Monmouth County.
How to Get Into Asbury Park
One of the main airports serving the area, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), is roughly 42 miles east of Asbury Park, New Jersey.
You can use the Garden State Parkway South to go to Asbury Park from Newark Liberty International Airport, which will make it simple to get there.
Things You Can Find In Asbury Park
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Native American Artifacts
10. Batsto Village
Batsto Village is a ghost town now, which was established in 1766.
The village’s mining business immediately established its foundation, and within a few years, the community was prospering.
Compared to other towns of its day, the town really experienced prosperity for a significantly longer length of time.
However, when its treasured mine shut down, it came to an abrupt and tragic end.
Metal detector hobbyists frequently visit the ruins of Batsto Village today.
They frequently mention discovering tools, money, and kitchenware from its heyday. Some even assert that they discovered iron from its mines.
I was able to learn many unheard things about Basto village and its metal detecting capability from a metal detecting club expert in New Jersey.
This is why I always tell newbies to join a metal-detecting club to take their treasure-hunting knowledge to the next level.
Location
This historical site Batsto Village can be found in the Pine Barrens of New Jersey, USA, in the Wharton State Forest. It is located in Burlington County’s Washington Township.
How to Get Into Batsto Village
Depending on the exact route you take, Batsto Village, located in New Jersey’s Wharton State Forest, is between 40 and 50 miles southeast of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
From Philadelphia International Airport, drive I-95 South and then follow the signs for NJ-42 South to get to Batsto Village.
To get to the village inside Wharton State Forest from there, you can travel a number of state and county highways.
Things You Can Find In Batsto Village
- Civil War Relics
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
11. Bass River
Metal detector enthusiasts wanting to find undiscovered riches along its beaches will find a unique setting in Bass River, which is located in the coastal town of Ocean.
Bass River, which is located in the picturesque Ocean region, offers an alluring combination of historical significance and natural beauty, making it a popular travel destination for metal detector enthusiasts.
Along the Bass River’s banks, metal detecting can be an exciting adventure.
The area is a great place to look for antiquities and relics because of its historical connections to maritime activity and recreational use over the years.
Coins, jewelry, fishing equipment, and artifacts from previous boating and recreational activities are some of the things that metal detectorists might find.
For safe and considerate treasure hunting that doesn’t harm the environment or historical sites, it’s important to obtain the necessary permits and abide by local laws, just like with any metal detecting activity.
Exploring the Bass River in the Ocean with a metal detector not only offers the chance to make thrilling discoveries, but it also provides a link to the region’s maritime and recreational heritage, allowing enthusiasts to bring the past to life through the artifacts they unearth.
Location
In Burlington County, New Jersey, there is a township called Bass River. It is located in the state’s southeast, close to both the New Jersey coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
How to Get Into Bass River
Depending on the airport you’re considering, Bass River, New Jersey’s proximity to it will vary. Bass River is located about 25 miles to the east of Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), the closest major airport.
Philadelphia’s larger international airport, which offers more airline alternatives, is situated about 70 miles southwest of Bass River and One of the main international airports in the New York metropolitan area is Newark Liberty, which is located about 90 miles to the north of Bass River.
Things You Can Find In Bass River
- Colonial Coins
- Jewels
- Civil War Relics
- Native American Artifacts
12. Back Creek
Back Creek is a picturesque creek that may be found in Cumberland, a historic area renowned for its extensive American history.
In search of treasures buried beneath its soil, metal-detecting enthusiasts have drawn to this peaceful site.
Back Creek’s attractiveness stems from its historical significance as a key location in the growth of the Cumberland area and an important path for transit in the past.
It can be thrilling and rewarding to go metal detecting along the Back Creek banks.
Due to the area’s rich history, enthusiasts may find remnants and items from earlier times, such as coins, buttons, tools, and possibly even lost jewels or Civil War-era treasures.
Metal detectorists must, however, get the required permits and obey local legislation to ensure that their operations are carried out properly and with respect for the environment and historical places.
Location
In Ocean City, New Jersey, there is a tidal stream called Back Creek. It is located in Cape May County, which is close to the state’s southernmost point.
How to Get Into Back Creek
One of the closest airports to the area, Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), is about 25 miles southeast of Back Creek in Ocean City, New Jersey.
From Atlantic City International Airport, take the Atlantic City Expressway East, then take the Garden State Parkway south to get to Back Creek in Ocean City.
Take Exit 30 and then follow the directions to Ocean City.
Things You Can Find In Back Creek
- Colonial Coins
- Civil War Relics
- Jewels
- Native American Artifacts
Map of Metal Detecting Friendly Places in New Jersey
That’s it folks! Now you know all the best places to metal detect in New Jersey with the treasures you can find.
Now let me share with you several tips that I learned while I was metal detecting in New Jersey back in 2019, which helped me to collect cool findings and to avoid many troubles that can commonly occur when metal detecting.
Some of the below tips were collected from local expert metal detectorists in New Jersey.
So, just keep reading!
Tips for Visiting Metal Detecting Places in New Jersey
- Research the historical background of the location.
- Check the weather forecast and plan accordingly.
- Bring appropriate gear for different terrains.
- Respect the environment and local regulations.
- Stay informed about tide schedules for beach detecting.
- Network with local detectorists for insider tips.
- Be prepared for varying soil conditions.
- Always fill in holes and leave the area as you found it.
- Be aware of local wildlife and their habitats.
- Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.
Metal Detecting Laws on New Jersey
The regulations governing metal detecting in New Jersey differ depending on where you are.
Furthermore, it may be illegal to dig or otherwise disrupt the environment, and any lucrative discoveries must be reported to the appropriate authorities in accordance with the law.
Metal detecting in New Jersey requires observing local laws, respecting the environment, and securing any required permits or permissions.
Let’s look into specific places if Metal Detecting is allowed.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on New Jersey Beaches?
Yes, metal detecting is permitted on New Jersey beaches, however, there are some rules and limitations.
It’s important to check with the specific beach or local authorities to understand their policies on metal detecting because each municipality or beach may have its own rules surrounding the activity.
Metal detecting might occasionally only be permitted during specific hours, in specific locations, or with a permit.
Additionally, any precious or priceless things discovered must be reported to park or beach authorities and may be subject to certain ownership and retrieval regulations.
It is best to contact your local beach authority or park office to learn about their particular limitations and to receive any necessary permits or information before metal detecting on New Jersey beaches to make sure you abide by the rules.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on New Jersey State Parks?
Yes, you can metal detect in some of the New Jersey state parks with a permit. But in most New Jersey State Parks, metal detecting is not permitted.
Strict guidelines are set forth by the Division of Recreation and Parks to safeguard the parks’ natural and historical elements.
You cannot use metal detectors or similar devices without a permit issued superintendent or designee.
According to the New Jersey state parks’ regulations, The permit could restrict the allowed areas, times, and days for usage.
It won’t be granted for locations with notable historical or similar importance, or where its usage might conflict with safeguarding the resource and disrupt the public’s access to the facility.
Metal detecting has the potential to harm historical sites, upset animal habitats, and interfere with the environment.
With the appropriate authorization and permits, metal detecting may be allowed in some instances or in particular locations.
It is usually essential to confirm the rules and restrictions surrounding metal detecting with the particular state park you intend to visit.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on New Jersey Ghost Towns?
Yes, Metal detecting on New Jersey ghost towns is normally permitted, however, it is important to complete an investigation and seek permission from landowners before engaging in any metal detecting operations.
A ghost town may be privately owned, protected by local or state regulations, or both. Ghost towns frequently have historical significance. Therefore, before metal detecting in certain areas, you must get permission and make sure you follow any rules that may be in place.
I advise contacting the relevant landowners or local historical groups for information on particular ghost towns you are interested in investigating to avoid any potential legal complications.
They will be able to advise you on any restrictions or permissions needed to ensure the preservation and respect of these special locations.
Is It Legal to Metal Detect on New Jersey Rivers?
Yes, metal detecting is permitted on New Jersey’s rivers, but it’s important to take into account any special rules or licenses.
Even though it might be lawful, considerations including ownership, permissions, and environmental protection are necessary.
Find out if the river is on public or private land, and see if any permissions or licenses are needed.
It’s important to consider environmental effects and keep vulnerable areas undisturbed.
It is essential to get advice from local authorities or preservation organizations if you stumble across cultural relics or historical places because these objects or locations can be subject to legal protection.
Always respect private property rights, abide by local laws, and maintain the places.
New Jersey, known as the “Garden State,” became the third state to ratify the U.S. Constitution in 1787 and has 130 miles of Atlantic coastline, offering a rich blend of historical sites and cultural diversity.
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So, let’s answer some frequently asked questions.
Check out, Dumpster Diving in New Jersey (Is It Legal?)
FAQs
Are permits required for metal detecting in New Jersey State Parks?
Yes, you need to obtain a permit from the Park Superintendent or their designee for metal detecting in New Jersey State Parks.
Is it legal to metal detect in New Jersey’s historic sites?
No, it’s illegal to use metal detectors or excavate for artifacts in historic sites in New Jersey.
Is it necessary to report discoveries over 100 years old in New Jersey?
Yes, items believed to be over 100 years old and found on state or federal lands should be reported to authorities.
Can you metal detect on private property in New Jersey?
Yes, but you must obtain written permission from the property owner first.
Are there restrictions on metal detecting in New Jersey rivers and creeks?
Metal detecting is allowed, but care must be taken not to disturb or expose any artifacts.
What types of treasures can be found in New Jersey?
You can find colonial coins, jewels, Civil War relics, and Native American artifacts.
Did I cover all you wanted to know about: Best Places to Metal Detect in New Jersey
In this article, I deeply discussed the best places to metal detect in New Jersey with the importance of each place with their maps.
Plus, I mentioned the specific rules and relations you need to follow in each place to avoid facing troubles when traveling to those locations.
The best places to metal detect in New Jersey include Point Pleasant Beach, Batsto Village, The Pine Barrens, and popular beaches like Asbury Park Beach and Atlantic City Beach. These spots offer opportunities to find colonial coins, jewels, Civil War relics, and Native American artifacts.
Furthermore, I answered some frequently asked questions as well.
Now it’s time for you to take your companion metal detector and travel to the locations mentioned with proper permits. Happy treasure hunting in scenic New Jersey!
