Metal Detecting at Botany Bay Plantation Heritage Preserve / WMA
Charleston County · Lowcountry · State reserve
Last verified:
The rules
This SCDNR-managed Heritage Preserve/WMA on Edisto Island bars any collection, removal or possession of shells, fossils, driftwood or cultural artifacts, and prohibits gathering, removing or disturbing plants, animals, rocks, minerals, fossils or artifacts. It is famous as a 'take nothing' beach - everything you find must stay - and metal detectors are not an allowed use.
Permit: N/A (not a permitted use)
📞 Call ahead: 843-869-2713 (confirm the current rule before you go)
Why detect here
DO NOT detect - renowned shell-and-bone beach where removing ANYTHING is banned; SCDNR preserve
This spot is off-limits — try one of the allowed South Carolina spots instead, then gear up below.
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More spots nearby: Lowcountry & Charleston Coast · See the full South Carolina metal detecting laws · federal rules · which detector to buy
Source: SCDNR - Botany Bay Plantation WMA Rules & Regulations. Verify against the managing authority before detecting.