Below is the actual Directive for Metal Detecting in ALL PA State Parks (you would have to check with the County to find out their policy for detecting in the County Parks). We need to know when, where, and when you are done. Any items of historic value must be returned to the park.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
Obie Derr, Park Manger
Nockamixon State Park
ps The camp that you are talking about is called Kahagon Camp and is on State Park property.
The reasonable use of metal detectors is permitted in many state recreation areas. Metal detecting is not permitted where this activity would conflict with a facility in use. Metal detecting is not permitted within fenced areas of swimming pool complexes (state operated or concession operated). Metal detecting on beaches and in lake swimming areas will be permitted within a reasonable distance of shore from the Tuesday after Labor Day until the Saturday prior to Memorial Day, unless posted otherwise. During the summer season, metal detecting in beach and swimming areas will be at the discretion of the Park Manager based on his knowledge of the use and type of facility. Metal detecting in other underwater areas will be permitted within a reasonable distance of shore if it does not conflict with other activities or have potential for causing damage to the facility.
Many state recreation areas have the potential for the recovery of valuable historical objects. State recreation areas with this potential may have part or all of their area closed to metal detecting. Areas to be closed to this activity should be approved by the appropriate regional office. The finding of historical objects in any state recreation area should be handled by following Management Manual Volume V, Section 920.340.
Shovels, spades, garden trowels, and other similar tools may not be used to dig into or turn over ground areas that are covered by turf, vegetation, shrubs, or trees. Permissible digging tools are screwdrivers, ice picks, and other similar narrow pronged devices.
Individuals who want to use a metal detector in a state recreation area must receive prior approval from the appropriate park office and report items which are found and will be removed from the park. Items recovered become the property of the finder, as described in Management Manual, Volume I, Section 1000.530, except for those of historical significance.
The above guidelines only pertain to state park lands. Persons should contact the Pennsylvania Game Commission, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and/or the DCNR Bureau of Forestry for guidelines applicable to their lands. In addition, persons should consult the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission if they are seeking or find historical artifacts. The Commission has legal responsibilities under the Historic Preservation Act (#273 of 1978).