Can you metal detect in Tennessee state parks? Tennessee State Parks prohibit metal detectors, except for a limited search for a lost item under the Park Manager's supervision.
Key rules
- No recreational detecting.
- Archaeological research requires a State Archaeologist permit.
- Rule: Tenn. Comp. R. & Regs. 0400-02-02-.18(6).
Federal land in Tennessee
National Park Service areas prohibit possessing or using metal detectors. National forests and BLM land generally allow low-impact detecting, but digging up or removing archaeological resources is illegal under ARPA. Federal rules →
Frequently asked
Can you metal detect in Tennessee state parks?
Tennessee State Parks prohibit metal detectors, except for a limited search for a lost item under the Park Manager's supervision.
Where do these Tennessee rules come from?
From the official sources listed on this page: Tennessee State Parks – Rules & guidelines; Tennessee State Parks – FAQ. Last checked 2026-10-16.
Can I metal detect on federal land in Tennessee?
Not in National Park Service areas. National forests and BLM land generally allow low-impact detecting, but archaeological resources are protected under ARPA.
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