Colleton State Park is a public state park in South Carolina near Canadys in Colleton County. Spanning 35 acres and established in 1938, this park offers a peaceful retreat into nature for visitors of all ages.
Quick Facts
| State | South Carolina |
| Nearest City | Canadys |
| County | Colleton |
| Park Size | 35 acres |
| Established | 1938 |
| Google Rating | ⭐ 4.4/5 (350 reviews) |
Location & Getting There
Colleton State Park is located near Canadys, South Carolina. The park’s coordinates are 33.0500, -80.5500.
Things to Do
South Carolina state parks stretch from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Lowcountry coast, offering remarkable ecological diversity. Activities include hiking through misty mountain forests and along dramatic waterfall trails, swimming at Lake Jocassee and warm Atlantic beaches, kayaking through blackwater cypress swamps and tidal salt marshes, fishing for bass in piedmont reservoirs and redfish in coastal creeks, camping in Spanish moss-draped settings, biking the Palmetto Trail, bird watching for painted buntings and bald eagles, and exploring antebellum plantations and Revolutionary War battlefields.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) are ideal for most South Carolina parks, with comfortable temperatures and manageable humidity. Summer (June–August) brings intense heat and humidity inland, though coastal and mountain parks offer relief. The Upstate mountain parks stay 10-15°F cooler. Winter is mild, especially along the coast, making it excellent for hiking and birding without summer crowds. Wildflowers peak in April, and fall color in the mountains arrives in late October.
Visitor Tips
Most South Carolina state parks charge a modest admission fee of $3-$8 per adult (children under 5 free). An annual pass ($99.95) covers unlimited visits. Camping and cabin reservations can be made through southcarolinaparks.com. The state park system is known for excellent cabin and lodge accommodations. Insect repellent is essential in Lowcountry and swamp parks, especially from May through September.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit South Carolina state parks?
Most South Carolina state parks charge $3-$8 per adult for admission. Children under 5 are free. An annual pass costs $99.95 and covers unlimited visits to all parks.
What are the best state parks for waterfalls in South Carolina?
Top waterfall parks include Table Rock (Carrick Creek Falls), Caesars Head (Raven Cliff Falls — tallest in SC), Jones Gap (connected waterfalls), and Wildcat Wayside. Many are in the Blue Ridge escarpment area.
Can I kayak at South Carolina state parks?
Yes, many parks offer excellent kayaking including the blackwater rivers at Congaree, coastal paddling at Hunting Island and Edisto Beach, and mountain lake kayaking at Table Rock and Devils Fork.
What is the best time to visit South Carolina state parks?
Spring (March-May) and fall (October-November) offer the best conditions. Summer is very hot inland but great for coastal parks. Winter is mild, especially along the coast, and ideal for hiking without crowds.
Explore More South Carolina State Parks
Colleton State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in South Carolina. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in South Carolina guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
Wildlife & Nature
Colleton SP — on the Edisto River — the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America. The park’s cypress-tupelo swamp, blackwater river, and bottomland forest support alligators, river otters, and barred owls.
Nearby Attractions
Canadys — adjacent. Edisto River — at the park (excellent kayaking and canoeing). Colleton County — surrounding.
Keep exploring: The closest neighbors are Givhans Ferry State Park (a short drive away) and Rivers Bridge State Historic Site (within about an hour’s drive).
Park Location
Plan your gear for Colleton State Park
From our editorial guides, matched to this park’s activities:
