Metal Detecting at Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Historical Park
Charleston County · Lowcountry · National Park (NPS)
Last verified:
The rules
Federal NPS land - possessing or using a metal detector is prohibited under 36 CFR 2.1(a)(7). Fort Sumter (in the harbor), Fort Moultrie on Sullivan's Island, and their grounds are protected historic and archaeological sites.
Permit: N/A
📞 Call ahead: 843-883-3123 (confirm the current rule before you go)
Why detect here
DO NOT detect - Civil War forts where the war began, federally protected
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: 36 CFR 2.1(a)(7) (NPS). Verify against the managing authority before detecting.