South Carolina State Parks

Welcome to the main page for South Carolina State Parks. This page is designed to provide information related to the many state parks located in the state of South Carolina. Below you will a list of all the state parks in South Carolina along with the address of the parks. Click on the links below for the individual state parks where you can find detailed information specific to that park.

The State of South Carolina Park Quick Facts: 40 State Parks | 4 National Wildlife Refuges | 3 State Forests | 1 National Forest | 1 National Historic Site | So many beautiful resources in one State; Priceless

South Carolina State Parks Activities

Camping in South Carolina State Parks

South Carolina is renowned across the United States for its beautiful natural landscapes and well-maintained campsites. At Calhoun Falls State Park, pitch your tent at spots overlooking Lake Russell and wake up to breathtaking views of the sunrise. Don’t forget to go on one of the park’s many nature trails!

Cheraw State Park also has a lot of incredible campgrounds although the most highly sought after is Campsite 8, which looks out to a spectacular view of Lake Juniper. A favorite among families, this park is almost always fully booked, especially during the summertime.

Those looking for a camping experience like no other should check out sites at Edisto Beach State Park, some of which offer views of Scott Creek and the marshlands. This unique panorama can’t be found anywhere else in South Carolina, which will surely make for an unforgettable excursion.

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Hiking in South Carolina State Parks

The best hiking trail in South Carolina is the Lake Placid Trail at Paris Mountain State Park. This route meanders around the tree-lined Lake Placid and features little to no challenges. The peaceful waters of the lake, the stunning natural surroundings, and the picturesque dam all make for a hike so nice, you’ll find yourself taking it twice!

The Sandhills Trail at Sesquicentennial State Park is another incredible walk through nature. Featuring towering pines and oaks, this two-mile loop around Sesquicentennial Lake is the perfect way to spend a lazy afternoon. Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife found along the route.

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Fishing in South Carolina State Parks

Myrtle Beach State Park is one of four oceanfront state parks in South Carolina, making it one of the best spots to do some fishing in. Home to large populations of king mackerel, founder, trout, and more. Anglers looking to do both surf and pier fishing will find the opportunities at this park to their liking.

Surf fishing is a popular activity at Edisto Beach State Park, as is fishing in the salt marsh for flounder, whiting, spot, and more. Anglers can also opt to head for the deeper waters of Big Bay Creek through the boat ramp located on the park’s western boundary.

Within Santee State Park lies Lake Marion, a large body of water that boasts of the best freshwater fishing in South Carolina. Striped bass, catfish, and bream are in abundance here. The park also hosts the annual Big Daddy Fishing Tournament every August so you know that fishing opportunities here are superb.

The 200-acre Lake George Warren at Lake Warren State Park is another incredible freshwater fishing spot. The park also has a smaller two-acre lake where anglers who want a quieter and more peaceful excursion can cast their lines in. Plus, their Little Buddies Fishing Program every May is great for kids and young children looking to get into fishing.

Geocaching in South Carolina State Parks

The South Carolina State Parks Geocache Challenge will take geocaching enthusiasts through the diverse landscapes of the Palmetto State, ranging from Hunting Island State Park at the Coastal Region to Santee State Park at the Sandhills Region, and from Dreher Island State Park at the Lakes Region to the final cache hidden within Sesquicentennial State Park. This is definitely a one-of-a-kind geocaching experience!

Day Use Areas in South Carolina State Parks

Picnic shelters are in abundance at Lake Hartwell State Park. These can hold up to 75 people and features an enclosed kitchen where you can scrounge up mouthwatering dishes for everyone to enjoy. Smaller groups may opt to avail of the park’s many picnic tables and grills, as well.

Biking in South Carolina State Parks

At Croft State Park in Spartanburg, mountain bikers love taking on the 15 miles of trails found within, which feature every challenge imaginable – from challenging climbs to thrilling downhills, and from terrifying jumps to hard-packed sections filled with rocks and upturned roots. Without a doubt, this park will test even the most skilled and experienced of riders.

The Oconee Passage of the Palmetto Trail at Oconee State Park is another popular biking trail, boasting of steep elevation drops and a speedy downhill adventure. Be advised that this route should only be taken on by intermediate to advanced riders.

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Boating in South Carolina State Parks

Situated on Lake Thurmond, Baker Creek State Park is a favorite among boating enthusiasts, all of whom make use of the park’s two boat ramps. Exploring the beautiful surroundings of this part of South Carolina is way better when one is on the water!

Calhoun Falls State Park is another excellent boating destination. Located on Lake Russell in Calhoun Falls, this boating spot features a ramp, as well as in-water refueling. The modern amenities found at this park draw in hundreds of boaters – both residents and tourists alike – every month.

On the other hand, four boat ramps and a courtesy dock may be used by visitors at Devils Fork State Park in Salem. Spend a lazy afternoon exploring the deep blue waters of Lake Jocassee and the gorgeous natural landscapes that surround it!

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Birdwatching in South Carolina State Parks

More than 300 various bird species have made their homes within Huntington Beach State Park, a stunning oceanside state park whose diverse habitats are great for spotting rarities. Bald Eagle nests are in abundance here and Bird-watchers can marvel as they watch these majestic creatures steal fish from Ospreys. Other varieties often seen here include the Reddish Egret, the Clapper Rail, and the Least Tern. Wintertime, on the other hand, brings glimpses of the Harlequin Duck and the Razorbill.

On the other hand, Appalachian highland birds can be found at Caesars Head State Park, located approximately 20 miles northwest of Greenville. The dense forests and rugged mountains of this region host a great many nesting birds, including the Ovenbird, the Hooded Warbler, and the Blue-headed Vireo. Birders should also keep their eyes peeled for the Peregrine Falcon, which is slowly making a comeback in the southern Appalachians.

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Beaches in South Carolina State Parks

South Carolina is known for its humid summers, which is why cooling off at one of their amazing swimming holes is a must! Wildcat Creek Falls at Wildcat Wayside State Park is an experience like no other. The lower falls are perfect for families with young children while the waters at the top falls are well worth the climb.

For those of you looking to swim underneath yet another waterfall, check out Carrick Creek Falls at Table Rock State Park. The waters of this beautiful swimming hole are nice and cool – perfect for beating the summer heat.

The spring-fed 14-acre lake within Aiken State Park is perfect for those who prefer swimming in freshwater beaches. However, be advised that there aren’t any lifeguards here so parents should keep a close eye on their kids. Speaking of kids, a great activity for them while at the beach is searching for treasure with a metal detector for kids. While they may not come away with a treasure trove, they will have a blast searching for things. You never know what they may be able to find with their metal detector.

Lake Juniper at Cheraw State Park is another one of South Carolina’s incredible swimming holes. This large lake boasts of clear and deep-blue waters, which means that a swim here is as perfect as it can be.

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Rock Climbing and Mountaineering in South Carolina State Parks

For those of you brave and daring enough to try, the rock climbing opportunities at Table Rock State Park are top-notch. The park features some of the tallest and wildest cliffs in the region, which means that the adventurous climbing here is unparalleled. With little to no natural protection, expect plenty of challenges, such as knobs, crimps, water grooves, a whole lot of slab, and the occasional crack.

Golf Courses in South Carolina State Parks

The 18-hole golf course at Cheraw State Park has been named one of the top courses in South Carolina and ranked ninth in Golf Advisor’s 2017 list, “Top 25 Value Courses in the U.S.” With gentle slopes and excellent conditions, playing a game here should definitely be on every avid golfer’s bucket list.

Horseback Riding in South Carolina State Parks

Lee State Park is one of the most equestrian-friendly spots in South Carolina, offering camping sites equipped with stables and even a show ring for groups. With plenty of trails perfect for horseback riding, this destination is undoubtedly an equestrian’s paradise!

There are over 30 miles of horseback riding trails at Kings Mountain State Park, which means that guests can explore the historical Revolutionary War site while riding their mounts. A favorite among equestrians, the park’s 28-mile Kings Mountain Horse Trail is a moderately-difficult route that will take riders to several fascinating historical monuments found in this part of South Carolina.

Those who want to catch an incredible horse show should head over to Croft State Park, which hosts one every third Saturday of the month. Equestrians of all skill levels are welcome to compete in these shows and the park also offers stables for rent, as well as five horseback riding trails, to those just looking for a relaxing weekend with their mounts.

Winter Sports in South Carolina State Parks

Winter camping at Hickory Knob State Park is an unforgettable experience, perfect for those looking to escape the rat race. Guests may avail of the park’s camping cabins, all of which are equipped with the most modern of amenities. This peaceful and relaxing retreat is a great way to spend the chilly winter months!

Great winter camping cabins may also be found at Barnwell State Park, considered by many to be one of the most scenic spots in South Carolina. This is the ideal destination for those craving for a little quiet time after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in South Carolina State Parks

The waters of Lake Joacassee, situated at Devils Fork State Park, are some of the cleanest and clearest in the Southeast, making it an excellent spot for divers of all skill levels. The lake has a ton of incredible sites, such as Stalk Canyon with a depth of 35 feet and the more challenging South Wall, which boasts a depth of 70 feet. Be advised, though, that the park itself does not offer equipment rentals or oxygen refills although there are shops located less than one mile away that do.

Complete South Carolina State Park List and Addresses

Here is a complete list of all the state parks in South Carolina along with the address for each park. Enjoy all that South Carolina has to offer for outdoor actives and natural beauty.

State Parks By State

Click on the links below to go to the main state park page for each individual state in the United States.