Metal Detecting Missouri State Parks Rules and Regulations

Metal detecting and magnet fishing activities are allowed on designated beaches in certain Missouri state parks, within the constraints shown below. This registration must be completed each calendar year.

METAL DETECTING LOCATIONS AND HOURS

Metal detecting and magnet fishing activities can ONLY take place on designated beaches in the following state parks and during the hours and seasons, as indicated:

METAL DETECTING AND MAGNET FISHING RULES

• Metal detectors and fishing magnets may be used to the shoreline and in the water adjacent to the specified beaches of the above named parks.
• Operator must exercise care when using magnet fishing equipment to avoid injury to other park visitors.
• Any solid faced digging or probing tool cannot exceed 12 inches in overall length and 3 inches in width. Any sand digging or sifting scoop cannot exceed 12 inches in overall length and 6 inches in width. Suction dredges and grappling hooks may not be used.
• Plants may not be dislodged or have their roots disturbed.
• Operator shall wear or carry a litter apron or bag, and all litter found must be deposited in an appropriate trash receptacle.
• Operator shall have this Proof of Registration email in his/her possession at all times while using a metal detector or magnet fishing equipment.
• This registration and acknowledgement is non-transferable.
• Contact the facility manager if a historic, archaeological or item valued at $10 or more is found. 
• The facility manager shall have authority to evict an operator for failure to comply with these rules.
• Registration must take place each calendar year and can be done below.

Click Here to visit the Missouri State Parks Website and you can currently register there.

For general questions or requests for brochures, please contact the following:
moparks@dnr.mo.gov
800-334-6946