Metal detecting

Metal detecting is permitted at more than 30 state parks throughout Washington. Users of metal detectors must register first with Washington State Parks and comply with posted regulations. The registration form, rules, and a list of parks that allow detecting may be found online in the Metal Detecting in Washington State Parks brochure (PDF), or by calling park staff at 360-902-8500 or from the Washington Telecommunications Relay Service at 800-833-6388. You also may complete the registration form online.

Metal detecting areas vary in each park. Some parks allow detecting in developed public-use areas and unoccupied campsites, while other parks allow detecting in specific areas only. See below to view or print maps showing areas open to metal detecting.

  1. Code of ethics
  2. Rules
  3. Governance

Metal detector's code of ethics

  • I WILL always check federal, state, county and local laws before searching.
  • I WILL respect private property and do no metal detecting without the owner's permission.
  • I WILL fill all holes and excavations.
  • I WILL appreciate and protect our heritage of natural resources, wildlife and private property.
  • I WILL use thoughtfulness, consideration and courtesy at all times.
  • I WILL leave gates as found.
  • I WILL remove and properly dispose of any trash that I find.
  • I WILL NOT litter.
  • I WILL NOT destroy property, buildings or what is left of ghost towns and deserted structures.
  • I WILL NOT tamper with signs, structural facilities or equipment.

Metal detecting maps