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.

1. Hunting Island State Park

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 State Park, 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 is home to an 8.6-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.

2. Table Rock State Park

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 situated along scenic Highway 11 spanning 3,000 acres. It's dominated by the majestic Table Rock mountain and offers charming cabins, a campground, and a swimming hole by the lake.

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

3. Jones Gap State Park

Location: Marietta, SC

Wow Factor: Caesars Head State Park and Jones Gap State Park together create 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 few exciting things to do in Jones Gap State Park. You can camp trailside, fish, bird-watch, or try geocaching. You can also check out the Learning Center featuring a classroom and aquatic ecology lab, and don't miss the historic on-site Cleveland Fish Hatchery, which dates back to 1931.

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.

4. Dreher Island State Park

Location: Prosperity, SC

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

Need To Know: This state park offers lakeside view park villas and lakefront sites for camping, which should be booked well 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 spans three islands and covers 348 acres, with 12 miles of shoreline on Lake Murray, 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 largemouth bass.

Dreher Island State Park also offers a variety of 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. This is one of the best state parks for camping in South Carolina.

5. Oconee State Park

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 were added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004.

Need To Know: Hidden Falls Trail is a favorite among visitors. It spans 4.8 miles and showcases 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 offers diverse camping options with well-equipped campsites featuring water and electrical hookups, and handy amenities like picnic tables. You can also cozy up in the cabins, some with lovely lake views and others tucked away in a secluded wooded area — this offers you a variety of choices for a comfortable stay.

6. Croft State Park

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 sprawls across more than 7,000 acres of beautiful rolling and wooded terrain. It's also 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 maritime 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.

7. Huntington Beach State Park

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 as it's home to the iconic Atalaya and the legacy of Archer and Anna Hyatt Huntington. You can enjoy a variety of programs here from loggerhead turtle encounters to glimpses of alligators and minks at the shores of 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.

8. Devils Fork State Park

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, which is 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. One of the best things to do in Devils Fork State Park includes 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.

9. Edisto Beach State Park

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 approximately 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 that wind 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 is a variety of 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. This is one of the most beautiful parks for camping in South Carolina.

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.

10. Paris Mountain State Park

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 Loop with a length 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.

11. Caesars Head State Park

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, which 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, which also includes 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 hike to Raven Cliff Falls, where a scenic overlook offers a view of 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 as it enters 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!

12. Sesquicentennial State Park

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 and canoe rentals and a six-mile mountain biking loop.

Sesquicentennial State Park, affectionately known as "Sesqui," is a 1,400-acre green oasis in the heart of the Sandhills region, offering camping, trails, and various recreational activities. Despite its proximity to downtown Columbia, the park provides a serene environment with amenities such as picnic shelters, campsites, and water activities on the 30-acre lake. With so many 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.

13. Kings Mountain State Park

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 features two fishing lakes and is right next to Kings Mountain National Military Park, adding to the 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.

14. Poinsett State Park

Location: Wedgefield, SC

Wow Factor: Poinsett State Park, renowned 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 boats are available for rent.

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, including grist mill ruins, the CCC-built Coquina Shelter, Spanish moss-covered mountain laurels, and a scenic tulip poplar and cypress swamp area.

15. Lake Greenwood State Park

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. As of July 2025, the West Shoreline Loop is closed. However, the East Shoreline Loop is available for hikers and bikers to use. Keep up to date with closures on the South Carolina State Parks website.

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 the history of South Carolina State Parks and one of the most 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.