Metal-detecting answer
Only the small red-shaded area on the current DNR map is open by default. Only registered campers may metal detect in campground areas. Detector use elsewhere requires written authorization from the unit supervisor or manager.
Where you can detect
All recovered items must be checked by a unit employee. Artifacts must be left in their original position; relics, aboriginal antiquities, and abandoned property of historical or recreational value are retained by the state. Recorded lost property may be returned to its owner by park staff.
Before you go
Open the current DNR map, detect in campground areas only if you are a registered camper, and contact Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park if the red-area boundary or written-authorization process is unclear.
Check posted signs before you go. Rules, closures, maps, and permit procedures can change.
Official sources
These links show the rules and dates used for this page.
Source authority: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Source role: Decisive
Exact claim established: The official DNR map marks one small area in red as open to metal detecting and states that all other park areas are strictly closed.
Evidence locator: No narrower locator is recorded; review the linked official source.
Source authority: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Source role: Controlling
Exact claim established: The DNR page states the park classifications, limits detecting to specifically designated open areas, excludes designated historic and archaeological sites, gives small-tool and ground-restoration rules, and requires staff review of recovered items.
Evidence locator: No narrower locator is recorded; review the linked official source.
Source authority: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Source role: Property scope
Exact claim established: The current Porcupine Mountains property source lists metal detecting as an activity, states that only registered campers may detect in campgrounds, and lists current park contact information; the current DNR map controls the designated open-area boundary.
Evidence locator: Amenities & activities; Stay overnight · Amenities & activities > Metal detecting; Stay overnight > campgrounds
The current property page lists metal detecting as an activity, identifies current campground areas, states that only registered campers may detect in campgrounds, and lists current park contact information; the designated-area map remains the boundary source.
Source authority: Michigan Department of Natural Resources
Source role: Restriction
Exact claim established: Order 5.26(1) prohibits detector use outside an area shown open on the current access map unless the unit supervisor or manager provides written authorization; the order calls for access maps to be published by April 15 each year.
Evidence locator: No narrower locator is recorded; review the linked official source.
Related records
Metal detecting is limited to the red-shaded areas on DNR’s currently linked Algonac map. Only registered campers may metal detect in campground areas. All other areas are closed unless the unit supervisor or manager gives written authorization.
Only registered campers may metal detect in campgrounds.
Read the full answerA permit is required before metal detecting at Flint State Park; confirm the current process before visiting.
Read the full answer