Metal Detecting at Blackbeard Island National Wildlife Refuge
McIntosh County · Coast · National Wildlife Refuge
Last verified:
The rules
On this refuge, searching for buried treasure or objects is prohibited without a federal permit (50 CFR 27.63) and ground disturbance is barred, so metal detecting is not allowed. Much of the island is designated federal Wilderness, and despite the pirate-treasure legend behind its name, detecting is off-limits.
Permit: N/A
📞 Call ahead: 843-784-2468 (confirm the current rule before you go)
Why detect here
DO NOT detect — wilderness barrier island (boat access) tied to the Blackbeard legend, federally protected
This spot is off-limits — try one of the allowed Georgia spots instead, then gear up below.
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More spots nearby: Atlantic Coast & Golden Isles · See the full Georgia metal detecting laws · federal rules · which detector to buy
Source: 50 CFR 27.63 (USFWS) — Savannah Coastal Refuges Complex. Verify against the managing authority before detecting.