A system for detecting one or more parameters associated with a header configured for use with an agricultural vehicle includes a header component and a radar sensor supported relative to the header component. The radar sensor has a field of view along which the radar sensor is configured to transmit radio waves for reflection off a surface. At least a portion of the header component is positioned within the field of view of the radar sensor or passes through the field of view of the radar sensor and is formed from one or more radar-transparent materials.