South Carolina’s Most Visited State Park Is Re-Opening And We Couldn’t Be Happier

The damage from Hurricane Matthew this past October was tragic and the affects were widespread. This included the temporary closure of South Carolina's most popular state park, Hunting Island State Park. The hurricane wiped out sand dunes, parking spaces, and other features of the park that had made it so beloved among residents and visitors. After diligent work and much planning, the park will reopen on Memorial Day with updated features. Here's more on what to expect from the grand re-opening of Hunting Island State Park.

Hunting Island is a beloved state park located 15 miles east of Beaufort, South Carolina.

The 5,000 acre park was closed in the aftermath of Hurricane Matthew, which devastated much of the parking area and protective sand dunes.

While a restoration was already in the works, the storm added nearly half a million dollars to the project and significantly delayed its timeline.

Fortunately, park lovers will once again be able to access the area, including the lighthouse and a portion of the beach.

Officials hope to overcome the issue of a parking shortage by putting in place a shuttle system, free to anyone who’s payed the $5 entrance fee to the park.

When the existing lot is full, the shuttle bus will take visitors from St. Helena Elementary School to the beach.

Because the sand dunes haven’t yet been restored, visitors may notice an expanded view of the water.

Other additions to the park include new picnic sites, camp sites, bathrooms, and park stores. While the area may feel a bit different than before, the natural beauty of this area is as evident as always.

What do you think about this re-opening? Do you plan on visiting the park over Memorial Day Weekend? If so, we'd love to hear from you!