Metal Detecting at Lake Russell (Richard B. Russell)
Abbeville County · Upstate · USACE lake
Last verified:
The rules
As a USACE reservoir, Lake Russell falls under 36 CFR 327.14: metal detecting is allowed only in designated or previously disturbed areas unless the District Commander prohibits it, and removing historic or archaeological items is banned. Clear your spot with the Russell project office first.
Permit: Not required, but limited to designated/previously-disturbed areas - confirm with the project office
📞 Call ahead: 706-213-3400 (confirm the current rule before you go)
Why detect here
Detecting designated Corps swim beaches and day-use areas after confirming with the office; mineralized Piedmont soil - ground-balance your machine
More spots nearby: Upstate & the Mountain Lakes · See the full South Carolina metal detecting laws · federal rules · which detector to buy
Source: 36 CFR 327.14 (USACE Savannah District). Verify against the managing authority before detecting.