Before you start collecting Petoskey stones (or any other natural material), you need to be aware of the collecting rules and regulations where you are. First of all, collecting in national parks is always prohibited, and many state parks also forbid any collecting. One notable exception is Petoskey State Park, just outside Petoskey, where collecting is allowed. In other state parks, be sure to check the rules and regulations. Of course, you also cannot collect on private property if you don’t have permission from the landowner.
And if you’re collecting Petoskey stones on public land, the state of Michigan imposes strict limits on how much you can collect each year. An individual can only collect 25 pounds a year from public land. This means that you could collect many small specimens or just a few large ones, but once you’ve reached your limit, please respect these laws and leave your next finds behind.
If you happen to come across a large specimen that exceeds 25 pounds, you unfortunately need to leave it where you found it. In exceptional cases, when a very large piece in excess of 100 pounds or more is discovered, you’re encouraged to report it to local officials. Those who have tried to take home such large discoveries are typically met with confiscation and fines.
This large specimen measures 10 inches wide and weighs around 10 pounds.
A great specimen showing nearly perfect hexagonal structures as well as some attached reef material (dark brown)
Collecting Petoskey stones on Little Traverse Bay or any other area beach can be a wonderful excuse to go out and enjoy the scenery.
