Can you metal detect in Montana state parks? Montana FWP requires written permission to use a metal detector at its public-use sites, including state parks (ARM 12.12.106).
Key rules
- Permission does not authorize disturbing soil or removing cultural or archaeological resources.
Federal land in Montana
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 Montana state parks?
Montana FWP requires written permission to use a metal detector at its public-use sites, including state parks (ARM 12.12.106).
Where do these Montana rules come from?
From the official sources listed on this page: Montana State Parks public use rules. Last checked 2026-10-16.
Can I metal detect on federal land in Montana?
Not in National Park Service areas. National forests and BLM land generally allow low-impact detecting, but archaeological resources are protected under ARPA.
Know before you dig.
One short email when metal detecting rules change, plus newly verified states. Free.