Weekend gold and gem hunters will be allowed to operate in more national parks in Victoria after the state government gave the green light for eight areas to be opened up.

Five parts of the Alpine National Park, one area of the Lake Eildon National Park and two sections of the Lerderderg State Park will now be opened to recreational gold hunters who are often known as prospectors or fossickers.

Well-armed: Fossicker Francine Gilbert. Credit:Simon Schluter

The use of metal detectors and hand tools will be allowed, but the government has ruled out the use of more elaborate motorised devices sometimes used by prospectors.

A review of the environmental and cultural impact of the decision will occur after one year.