Whut??

[RGINN]

Well, I guess we'll never know what the laws concerning metal detecting or pending legislation are in Oklahoma. I assume there are none, so when I return, I shall run rampant with my detector. Seriously, I know what state law says, or said, but what are your experiences in state parks and what are you being told by the park office? Any response is appreciated.

[RGINN]

Well, thanks for the responses so far. I'll be more specific. Everything found below the surface of the ground belongs to the State of Oklahoma. Have you heard that? Are you guys being charged fees to detect in state parks? I've heard rumors of that, and as far as I know that's illegal. I'd like to know more about that story.

[sharpshooter]

The only State Park I've ever hunted is Little River State Park at Thunderbird Lake.
Info about that particular State Park has already been discussed here.

Also See: http://www.oklahomaparks.com/faq.asp#37

[JoeMoto]

I usually detect old homesteads on private land. Also some schools and parks in town. I've never been bothered.

There are so many old homesteads that you could detect for years and never have to hit public land.

[walnuthead]

I know that it is illegal to take anything out of the Wichita Mountain Wildlife Refuge.

[Monty]

Citiy parks usually no problem, could vary from town to town. State parks, I have never been stopped or questioned. Corps of Engineer land along lakes , you are supposed to get permission from the corps project manager. Never tried that, but no one has ever bothered me. Monty

[pyledriver]

I found this: http://www.metal-detecting-ghost-tow...-Oklahoma.html

Looks kinda ominous if you're out on the trail of a cache, which, quite conveniently always seem to be surrounded by state or federal land! Go figure..

[Gooner]

Yeah, the A. R. P. A., or Archaeological Resourc Protection Act of 1974, and N.A.G.P.R.A., or Native American Grave Protection and Repatriation Act.