I took the tour of Camp Michaux offered today by Dave Smith of the
Cumberland County Historical Society in conjunction
with the events at nearby Pine Grove Furnace State Park.
Cumberlink.com: Cumberland County Historical Society to host special event
Dave and his fellow volunteers have done a remarkable job
clearing brush, creating trails and producing a tourguide of the site
where only foundations of buildings remain.
This is a remote site on Michaux State Forest land and the current
guidelines for digging are here:
"Metal Detectors on SFL
"The use of a metal detector on State Forest land does not currently require a permit. The digging for metal objects is restricted to shallow surface disturbance using a hand trowel or other similar narrow probing device such as a screwdriver. Be sure to fill in any spots where you create a small hole or divot with your digging tool.
"The use of a metal detector and the related digging is not permitted within the boundaries of designated Natural and Wild Areas. Also, probing is not permitted under the surface of the water in a pond, lake or stream on state forest lands. Any archaeological salvage project sites are off limits to probing for any reason.
"Persons seeking to find historical artifacts on public land must obtain permission to do so from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Anyone who finds an 'Archaeological Specimen' on state forest land is required to surrender the item at the local district office. Such items remain the exclusive property of the Commonwealth under the authority of the Historic Preservation Act."
Dave