Your Ultimate Guide To State Parks In South Carolina

Get ready to explore the best state parks in South Carolina with my ultimate guide. Wondering how many state parks there are in South Carolina? I’ve got the scoop! Whether you’re into hiking, camping, or just soaking in nature, let’s uncover the best outdoor spots and hidden gems in the Palmetto State – it’s time to embark on an adventure!

Most Popular State Parks In South Carolina

Discover the best of SC’s outdoors at its most popular state parks. Hunting Island lures with pristine beaches and a historic lighthouse, Table Rock offers mountain vistas and history, and Jones Gap is a go-to for nature lovers with scenic trails. So, join me for some beach vibes, mountain panoramas, and woodland adventures – these top-rated spots have it all.

Hunting Island State Park, 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, USA

Ken Ratcliff/Flickr

Location: St Helena Island, SC

Wow Factor: The island stands as one of the last undeveloped Sea Islands in the Lowcountry.

Need To Know: Every summer, 60-130 loggerhead turtle nests are laid on the beach at Hunting Island. Volunteers walk the entire beach every morning during nesting season to find and protect the nests.

Hunting Island, South Carolina's top state park, attracts over a million visitors annually, offering pristine beaches, extensive marsh and forest areas, a saltwater lagoon, and an ocean inlet.

Home to the historic Hunting Island lighthouse, built in 1859 and reconstructed in 1875 after the Civil War, it's a unique structure made of interchangeable cast-iron sections.

If you're looking for things to do in Hunting Island State Park, it also has a 6.1-mile loop trail through the maritime forest and along the lagoon, connecting to the popular Marsh Boardwalk. A brief five-minute walk leads to a deck along a tidal creek.

Table Rock State Park, Carrick Creek Rd, Pickens, SC 29671, USA

David Ellis/Flickr

Location: Pickens, SC

Wow Factor: Experience a breathtaking panorama when you reach the summit of Table Rock by hiking the Table Rock Trail.

Need To Know: There is a swimming hole that is open during the summer months!

Table Rock State Park is a picturesque park along scenic Highway 11 that spans 3,000 acres. It's dominated by the majestic Table Rock mountain and offers charming cabins, a campground, and a swimming hole by the lakes.

Things to do in Table Rock State Park include hiking trails leading to the summits of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains. And the park holds a piece of history with structures crafted by the Civilian Conservation Corps - too cool! It's definitely worth a visit for anyone seeking natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

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Jones Gap State Park, 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA

Jason A G/Flickr

Location: Marietta, SC

Wow Factor: When joined with Caesars Head, it creates the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, spanning 17,000 acres of wilderness.

Need To Know: Check out Jones Gap State Park trails connecting two parks and linking to the Foothills Trail and Palmetto Trail. Enjoy top-notch trout fishing along the scenic Middle Saluda River.

Explore Jones Gap State Park in northern Greenville County near Marietta. Spanning 3,964 acres, this wooded oasis is home to diverse wildlife and the headwaters of the Middle Saluda River.

With over 30 miles of hiking trails, including ones with waterfalls (Rainbow Falls Trail), there are quite a bit of things to do in Jones Gap State Park. You can camp trailside, fish, bird-watch, or try geocaching. Check out the Learning Center with its classroom and aquatic ecology lab. Don't miss the historic Cleveland Fish Hatchery on-site, dating back to 1931.

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Best State Parks In South Carolina To Camp

Ready for a camping adventure in SC? Look no further than Dreher Island State Park, Oconee State Park, and Croft State Park. Each park brings its own charm – from lakefront camping at Dreher Island to the Blue Ridge Mountains vibe at Oconee and the vast terrains of Croft, there’s something for every camper.

Dreher Island State Park, 3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC 29127, USA

Ben Childers/Google Local

Location: Prosperity, SC

Wow Factor: This park is known for hosting major national fishing tournaments!

Need To Know: This state park has lakeside view park villas and lakefront sites for camping -book in advance.

Have you ever been to Dreher Island State Park in South Carolina? It's a popular spot in the central part of the state, located only 30 miles from Columbia, the capital. The park is spread over three islands and covers 348 acres, with 12 miles of shoreline on Lake Murray, which is actually a reservoir of the Saluda River.

You can enjoy a wide range of things to do in Dreher Island State Park, including water activities, hiking through beautiful nature trails, and even trying your luck at catching striped or large-mouth bass.

Dreher Island State Park also offers versatile camping options, including lakefront sites for RVs and tents, exclusive tent sites, and comfortable villas. Additionally, camper cabins provide a roof over your head with basic amenities and outdoor cooking facilities.

Oconee State Park, 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA

Brent Morton/Google Local

Location: Mountain Rest, SC

Wow Factor: Built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression, Oconee State Park features structures like fifteen cabins, the superintendent's residence, a garage, shelters, a swimming lake, and a bathhouse. These CCC-made buildings earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places in 2004!

Need To Know: Hidden Falls Trail is a favorite among visitors, spanning 4.8 miles and showcasing a stunning waterfall along the way.

Discover Oconee State Park in the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains of South Carolina. With 1165 acres, it's the go-to spot for camping, cabins, fishing, and boating by two lakes. Explore eight nature trails and enjoy picnics in this outdoor paradise - perfect for a weekend escape.

Fun fact: it marks the southern end of the Foothills Trail and the western end of the Oconee Passage of the Palmetto Trail. There are endless things to do in Oconee State Park!

Oconee State Park also offers diverse camping options with well-equipped campsites that feature water and electrical hookups and handy amenities like picnic tables. Plus, you can cozy up in the cabins, some with lovely lake views and others tucked away in a secluded wooded area, offering various choices for a comfortable stay.

Croft State Park, 450 Croft State Park Rd, Spartanburg, SC 29302, USA

Jes Shoup/Google Local

Location: Spartanburg, SC

Wow Factor: Horse lovers, don't miss Croft State Park. With over 20 miles of trails, it's a top destination for riding. The park features a stable, rental stalls, and a show ring for events.

Need To Know: There are 50 campsites available for RV or tent camping, with 25 of them providing 20/30/50 amp service.

Have you ever been to Croft State Park? It used to be an army training base, but now it's sprawled across more than 7,000 acres of beautiful rolling and wooded terrain. And it's just a short distance from downtown Spartanburg, so it's quite accessible.

There are so many things to do in Croft State Park - you can have a picnic, go camping, hike, geocache, mountain bike, and even bird watch. And if you're into fishing, they have lakes, too, including the stunning 165-acre Lake Craig. The amenities are fantastic as well - they have a playground, a shooting range, and even a park store. It's definitely worth a visit!

Best State Parks In South Carolina To RV

Gear up for an RV road trip exploring this great state! From the coastal charm of Huntington Beach State Park to the mountainous landscapes at Devils Fork State Park and the coastal wonders of Edisto Beach State Park, there’s something for every adventurer. These parks offer the perfect blend of nature, recreational fun, and the freedom to roam in your RV.

Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy, Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, USA

Keith Corbin/Google Local

Location: Murrells Inlet, SC

Wow Factor: The park is home to over 300 bird species!

Need To Know: Park at the causeway's end, walk both sides to see the marsh, and then explore the three miles of pristine beach.

You'll definitely want to check out Huntington Beach State Park - it's home to the iconic Atalaya and the legacy of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. You can enjoy diverse programs here, from loggerhead turtle encounters to glimpses of alligators and minks by the freshwater lake. And if you're an art lover, don't miss the prestigious Atalaya Arts and Crafts Festival in September.

If you're an RV camper, you'll love the park's campground, which offers 139 spacious sites near a stunning three-mile sandy beach. Each site features electric/water hookups, a table, a fire ring, and a grill. And if you're looking for modern amenities, you'll find flush toilets, showers, and a convenient dump station to ensure a comfortable stay. But whether you're into RV or tent camping, there are so many things to do in Huntington Beach State Park, which makes it a perfect outdoor getaway for everyone.

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Devils Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA

Gwen Culberson/Google Local

Location: Salem, SC

Wow Factor: Explore the Oconee Bell Nature Trail, your chance to spot the rare Oconee Bell during early spring.

Need To Know: Don't miss the blooming Oconee Bells in early spring, and year-round, make it a must to take a lake tour to enjoy the sights and waterfalls.

Discover picturesque RV camping at Devils Fork State Park in South Carolina. This park, located in the scenic northwestern part of the state, borders the expansive 7,500-acre Lake Jocassee and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, paddle-in primitive camping, and excellent fishing. Other things to do in Devils Fork State Park include scuba diving! Scuba divers can explore submerged remnants of human habitation in the lake.

Two campgrounds along the shores of Lake Jocassee cater to RV campers, providing restrooms with hot showers and accommodating two vehicles per site. For a more unique stay in the park, explore one of the 20 fully-furnished villas.

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Edisto Beach State Park, 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA

scpetrel/Flickr

Location: Edisto Island, SC

Wow Factor: Check out the Environmental Learning Center at the park. It's a gem with fossils, info about the island and ACE Basin, live animals (yes, there's an alligator!), and exhibits showcasing Edisto Beach State Park's incredible resources.

Need To Know: Each campground site is equipped with a table, fire ring, and grill. Modern conveniences include Wi-Fi, a camp store, a dump station, drinking water, flush toilets, and hot showers. ADA campsites are located at 43 and 47.

Don't miss out on Edisto Beach State Park, located about 50 miles from Charleston near Edisto Beach, which is a dream spot for RV camping and outdoorsy people. The park features handicapped-accessible hiking and biking trails winding through the island's maritime forest, offering a unique exploration of natural beauty and historical sites, including a Native American shell midden from 2000 BC and a survey monument by Alexander Bache in 1850.

There are more diverse activities and things to do in Edisto Beach State Park, from fishing for flounder, spot tail, and whiting to boating, birding, and picnicking. For camping, Edisto Beach State Park provides options near the ocean or salt marsh with water and electrical hookups. RV campers with vehicles up to 40 feet can enjoy conveniently located campgrounds with restrooms and hot showers.

Best State Parks In South Carolina For Hiking

Embark on a hiking adventure through some of the best in the state, including Paris Mountain, Caesars Head, and Sesquicentennial. With diverse trails and stunning views, these parks cater to hikers of all levels. Lace up your boots and explore the wonders of the Palmetto State.

Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, USA

David Ellis/Flickr

Location: Greenville, SC

Wow Factor: Paris Mountain, a monadnock in the Piedmont region, stands over 2,000 feet high. The park boasts a rich diversity of around 73 different types of flora.

Need To Know: Check out the short and sweet Lake Placid Trail—under a mile. You'll catch wildlife and glimpse the historic spillway.

Are you ready for some outdoor fun? If so, you should check out Paris Mountain State Park! It's just a short five-mile drive from Greenville and has something for every type of hiker.

With 1,540 acres to explore, you can enjoy swimming, picnicking, and even fishing in the 13-acre Lake Placid. With 17 miles of hiking and biking trails, a family-friendly campground, and scenic lakes for boating, there are plenty of things to do in Paris Mountain State Park to keep you coming back for more.

Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center, 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA

Scott Oves/Flickr

Location: Cleveland, SC

Wow Factor: From September 1 to November 30, thousands of hawks migrate through the park each year!

Need To Know: The must-see attraction is the overlook. This vantage point offers a spectacular and easily accessible view that is truly breathtaking.

Perched atop the Blue Ridge Escarpment, Caesars Head State Park boasts a breathtaking landscape with a granitic gneiss outcropping. As part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, connecting with Jones Gap State Park, Caesars Head offers hikers a network of trails across 17,000 acres of untouched southern mountain forest, with options for trailside camping on longer routes.

A standout trail at Caesars Head is the four-mile round trip to Raven Cliff Falls, where a scenic overlook reveals the impressive 420-foot waterfall. For a more extended hike, a 6.6-mile round trip leads to a suspension bridge above the falls, offering a unique perspective of the cascading water into the mountain cove below. With its captivating natural features and diverse trail system, it's a must-visit for hikers - there are tons of things to do in Caesars Head State Park!

Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA

Kent Meyer/Google Local

Location: Columbia, SC

Wow Factor: A highlight at Sesquicentennial State Park is the "FEMA bridge" on the Loop Trail, a 100-foot aluminum structure that spans Jackson Creek. The two-mile Sandhills Trail is a must, providing a flat, mostly paved route around the park lake and showcasing Sesqui's diverse landscapes.

Need To Know: The park offers day-use recreational activities, including kayak/canoe rentals and a six-mile bicycle loop.

Sesquicentennial State Park, lovingly known as "Sesqui," is a 1,400-acre green escape in the heart of the Sandhills region, offering camping, trails, and recreational activities.

Despite its proximity to downtown Columbia, the park provides a serene environment with amenities like picnic shelters, campsites, and water activities on the 30-acre lake. With a lot of fun things to do in Sesquicentennial State Park, such as ADA-accessible trails, a bike trail, a splash pad, and a dog park, Sesqui ensures a diverse and enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.

Little-Known State Parks In South Carolina

Take off on an exploration of hidden gems nestled within the diverse landscapes of this picturesque area. Uncover lesser-known natural wonders and outdoor havens, each with its unique charm and surprises. From secluded trails to tranquil lakeside retreats, these lesser-explored treasures invite you to experience the untouched beauty of this southern region.

Kings Mountain State Park, 1277 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702, USA

Charles Sweeney/Google Local

Location: Blacksburg, SC

Wow Factor: Explore the spillway and the 1800s Living History Farm. It's a journey back in time with recreated yeoman farm buildings and a peaceful encounter with farm animals.

Need To Know: The Ridgeline Trail connects three parks and spans two states.

Kings Mountain State Park in South Carolina is a beautiful state park in the Piedmont region 40 miles from Charlotte, North Carolina, and offers a fantastic outdoor escape. With miles of forested trails, it's perfect for hiking. Plus, the park has two fishing lakes and is right next to Kings Mountain National Military Park, which adds historical significance to the area.

To add to the list of things to do in Kings Mountain State Park, it also hosts special events throughout the year, like the November living history demonstrations at the replica 1800s Piedmont farm. And if you want to stay a little longer, the Kings Mountain campground has equestrian facilities and provides easy access to all the outdoor activities.

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Poinsett State Park, 6660 Poinsett Park Rd, Wedgefield, SC 29168, USA

Kimmy Stardust/Google Local

Location: Wedgefield, SC

Wow Factor: Poinsett State Park, known for its uniqueness and beauty, is named after Joel Roberts Poinsett, a South Carolina native famous for popularizing the poinsettia.

Need To Know: Stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, a johnboat, canoes, and pedal boat rentals are available.

Have you explored the High Hills of Santee in South Carolina? It's such a unique and diverse ecosystem where the Sandhills meet the coastal plain. Poinsett State Park is located there, and it's often referred to as the "mountains of the midlands."

Poinsett State Park is particularly beautiful, with a serene 10-acre lake that's perfect for fishing or renting a johnboat. The park also offers campsites, a fishing pond, a historic coquina bathhouse built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps, pre-revolutionary grist mill ruins, and rustic cabins. It's such a peaceful and fascinating place to explore!

Looking for more things to do in Poinsett State Park? Take a stroll along the 1.4-mile Coquina Trail to explore the unique elevation at Poinsett State Park. This trail showcases captivating features such as grist mill ruins, the CCC-built Coquina Shelter, Spanish moss-covered mountain laurels, and a scenic tulip poplar and cypress swamp area.

Lake Greenwood State Park, 302 State Park Rd, Ninety Six, SC 29666, USA

Venkata Rami Reddy Madduri/Google Local

Location: Ninety Six, SC

Wow Factor: A must-see at Lake Greenwood State Park is the unfinished rock wall at the park entrance. Frozen in time, it tells the story of the CCC's dissolution after Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entry into World War II. The original materials remain, preserving a piece of history within the park.

Need To Know: The park features two boat ramps, offering convenient access to the expansive 11,400-acre Lake Greenwood.

Lake Greenwood State Park is a hub of activity, especially when it hosts the South Carolina Festival of Flowers Triathlon in June. But that's not all it offers! Year-round, you can enjoy fantastic bass fishing and boating - and explore shoreline campsites and nature trails.

The park has a rich history, with many original CCC structures still standing as a testament to classic CCC architecture. Dive into their story and contributions at the CCC Museum in the Drummond Center – it's a fascinating journey through South Carolina State Parks' history and one of the fun things to do in Lake Greenwood State Park!

Do you think these natural destinations are some of the best in the Palmetto State? Let me know – I’d love to hear from you!

Are you on the hunt for the best state parks in SC in summer? Then check out Lake Hartwell (formerly known as Lake Hartwell State Recreation Area), bordering Georgia. Or walk along the fishing pier at Myrtle Beach State Park.

Maybe hiking or kayaking is more your thing – if so, Givhans Ferry State Park, Keowee Toxaway State Park, and Landsford Canal State Park have got what you’re looking for. And if you’re gearing up for some nature adventures, explore the best outdoor gear available!