South Carolina, a state brimming with natural beauty, offers a diverse landscape that stretches from the rugged peaks of the Upstate to the serene, salt-kissed marshes along the Atlantic coastline. Within this tapestry of terrains lies a collection of state parks, each a unique sanctuary showcasing the Palmetto State’s remarkable biodiversity and offering a wealth of recreational opportunities. Whether your heart desires a challenging hike to cascading waterfalls and breathtaking panoramic summits, a peaceful paddle through ancient maritime forests, or a leisurely kayak trip on a tranquil lake, South Carolina’s state parks beckon. Let’s explore 13 of the most captivating parks that should be on every nature enthusiast’s must-visit list, because, after all, there are the 13 Best State Parks in South Carolina.
- Table Rock State Park: A Mountain Majesty
Nestled in the Upstate, Table Rock State Park is a true outdoor playground, offering over a dozen miles of hiking trails catering to all skill levels. From gentle half-mile strolls to demanding climbs that ascend to the 3,124-foot summit of Table Rock Mountain, there’s a path for everyone. For a relaxed, family-friendly experience, the 1.9-mile Lakeside Trail presents stunning views of the mountain and glimpses of local wildlife. Water enthusiasts can enjoy seasonal swimming in the park’s two lakes, fish from the piers, or rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats. Additional amenities include a playground, gift shop, and the popular "Music on the Mountain" bluegrass jam sessions held monthly at the Table Rock Lodge. Overnight visitors can choose from fully furnished cabins or campsites for an immersive experience in the 13 Best State Parks in South Carolina.
- Address: 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671-9524, USA
- Phone: +1 864-878-9813
- Jones Gap State Park: A Wilderness Retreat
Located just 25 miles north of Greenville, Jones Gap State Park is a sprawling recreation area within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Its 3,000 acres of woodlands boast 60 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy nature walks to strenuous, lengthy excursions. The moderate 4.3-mile out-and-back Rainbow Falls trail is perfect for bird watching, wildflower spotting, and admiring one of the park’s two waterfalls. The Middle Saluda River, teeming with mountain trout, attracts anglers. The park features a small gift shop for supplies and backcountry campsites for those seeking a secluded escape in the 13 Best State Parks in South Carolina.
- Address: 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA
- Phone: +1 864-836-3647
- Caesars Head State Park: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise
Also part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, the expansive 13,000-acre Caesars Head State Park is a haven for waterfalls, bird watching, and hiking, with 60 miles of trails. The 4-mile, out-and-back Raven Cliff Falls Trail leads to a spectacular view of the park’s 420-foot waterfall. For a more challenging adventure, the 6.6-mile Dismal Trail Loop crosses a suspension bridge at the top of the falls. During autumn, the park becomes a prime location to witness the migration of hawks, bald eagles, falcons, and other bird species from the Blue Ridge Escarpment.
- Address: 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635-9428, USA
- Phone: +1 864-836-6115
- Hunting Island State Park: A Coastal Treasure
Hunting Island State Park, a Beaufort County gem, is South Carolina’s most popular state park, attracting over a million visitors annually. This secluded barrier island, located 15 miles east of Beaufort, encompasses more than 5,000 acres of undeveloped land, featuring pristine beachfront, saltwater lagoon, marshlands, and maritime forest. Climb the 167 steps to the top of the historic Hunting Island Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic coast and lush forest. Hike the 2-mile Maritime Forest Trail to spot wildlife like deer and hawks, or stroll along the Marsh Boardwalk Trail for views of aquatic life and stunning sunsets. The park also has a nature center, a 100-site campground, and a fishing pier.
- Address: 2555 Sea Island Pkwy, St Helena Island, SC 29920, USA
- Phone: +1 843-838-2011
- Huntington Beach State Park: Where Nature Meets History
Just south of Myrtle Beach, the 2,500-acre Huntington Beach State Park boasts 3 miles of pristine coastline, a 2-mile hiking trail, a fishing pier, and an impressive 300 species of birds. A must-see is the historic 1930s Atalaya Castle, the winter home of philanthropists Archer and Anna Huntington. Adjacent to the park are the renowned Brookgreen Gardens, featuring a butterfly garden, zoo, and the largest collection of figurative sculptures in the United States.
- Address: Murrells Inlet, SC 29576, USA
- Phone: +1 843-237-4440
- Edisto Beach State Park: A Coastal Escape with History
Edisto Beach State Park, one of the state’s four oceanfront state parks, offers 4 miles of paved, ADA-accessible trails. Explore stunning Indigenous shell mound sites on the 1.7-mile Spanish Mount Trail. The half-mile Forest Loop Trail meanders through a maritime forest of Spanish moss, live oak, and palmetto trees. The park also features 1.5 miles of beachfront access, two oceanfront picnic shelters, an environmental learning center, RV and tent campsites, and furnished cabins.
- Address: 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438, USA
- Phone: +1 843-869-2156
- Myrtle Beach State Park: A Classic Coastal Retreat
Opened in 1936, Myrtle Beach State Park, a 312-acre green space in Horry County, was South Carolina’s first designated state park. Nestled along a mile of unspoiled coastland in Myrtle Beach, the quiet maritime forest is filled with magnolias, live oaks, and wax myrtles. Hike gentle paths through woodlands and along the beachfront, or fish from the iconic Myrtle Beach fishing pier. Swimming is permitted in the north end of the park, which also has restrooms, showers, and picnic facilities. Other amenities include campsites and furnished cabins.
- Address: 4401 S Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC 29575, USA
- Phone: +1 843-238-5325
- Sesquicentennial State Park: An Urban Oasis
Located just 12 miles from downtown Columbia, Sesquicentennial State Park, known as "Sesqui," is a 1,400-acre green space. Cool off at the splash pad, cycle on the 6-mile mountain biking trail, spot wildflowers on the 3.5-mile loop road trail, or walk to a waterfall on the Jackson Creek Nature Trail. Fish, or rent a kayak or canoe to paddle through the 30-acre lake. The park also has playgrounds, overnight campsites, a sand volleyball court, basketball court, and a dog park.
- Address: 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA
- Phone: +1 803-788-2706
- Poinsett State Park: The Mountains of the Midlands
Built in the 1930s, the 1,000-acre Poinsett State Park in Sumter County is often called "the mountains of the midlands." Its rugged setting features hardwood forests and flora and fauna reminiscent of the Upstate. The park has over 25 miles of trails, including the Wateree Passage, part of the Palmetto Trail. Fish, swim, or boat in the 10-acre Levi Mill Lake. Accommodations include campsites and rustic cabins.
- Address: 6660 Poinsett Park Rd, Wedgefield, SC 29168-9440, USA
- Phone: +1 803-494-8177
- Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site: A Glimpse into the Past
The site of the first English settlement in the Carolinas, Charles Towne Landing is a great place to learn about the city’s history. Stroll through 80 acres of gardens, climb aboard the "Adventure," a 17th-century replica sailing ship, or explore 7 miles of trails. The Animal Forest Trail features a natural habitat zoo with bison, bears, and otters. Bike rentals are available.
- Address: 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC 29407, USA
- Phone: +1 843-852-4200
- Paris Mountain State Park: An Upstate Escape
Paris Mountain State Park, formed by a monadnock, is located just 10 minutes from downtown Greenville. The 1,540-acre park offers 15 miles of hiking and cycling trails, a summer swimming area with kayak and canoe rentals, four lakes, and access to the Prisma Health Swamp Rabbit Trail. The grounds include campsites.
- Address: 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, USA
- Phone: +1 864-244-5565
- Lake Hartwell State Park: A Water Lover’s Paradise
Anglers and water enthusiasts will love Lake Hartwell State Park on the Georgia-South Carolina border, named for its massive, 56,000-acre lake. Renowned for its stock of freshwater fish, the park features a fishing pier, boat ramps, and courtesy access. The 1-mile Beach Bluff Trail is ideal for bird watching. Camp overnight in camper cabins.
- Address: 19138 SC-11, Fair Play, SC 29643, USA
- Phone: +1 864-972-3352
- Kings Mountain State Park: History and Recreation Combined
Kings Mountain State Park, nestled along the South Carolina/North Carolina border, is a family favorite. Explore wildlife via the Kings Mountain Nature Trail, or opt for the 16-mile Kings Mountain Hiking Trail loop. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle Lake Crawford, and visit the Living History Farm. The park also has equestrian trails, a campground, and a playground. These parks truly represent the 13 Best State Parks in South Carolina
- Address: 1277 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702-8381, USA
- Phone: +1 803-222-3209
From the majestic mountains to the tranquil coast, South Carolina’s state parks offer a diverse range of experiences for every outdoor enthusiast. These 13 parks represent the best of what the Palmetto State has to offer, promising unforgettable adventures and lasting memories.
