Hunting Island State Park
🏆 South Carolina’s #1 Most-Visited State Park — Over 1 million visitors annually
Hunting Island State Park isn’t just another beach destination—it’s South Carolina’s crown jewel of coastal wilderness.
This 5,000-acre barrier island delivers an experience you simply can’t find anywhere else on the East Coast.
Why Hunting Island State Park?
Here’s what makes it special:
- The only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina – Climb 167 feet for panoramic Atlantic views
- Five miles of undeveloped beaches – No condos, no boardwalks, just pure nature
- TripAdvisor Top 10 Beach – Nationally recognized for its beauty
- Famous filming location – The Vietnam scenes in Forrest Gump were shot right here
- Last undeveloped Sea Island – One of the few remaining pristine barrier islands in the Lowcountry
Whether you’re planning an RV road trip, looking for a beachfront cabin, or chasing the perfect Instagram shot at
Boneyard Beach, this guide covers everything you need.
7 Best Things to Do at Hunting Island State Park
1. Climb the Hunting Island Lighthouse
The iconic black-and-white striped lighthouse is the park’s most recognizable landmark. Built in 1859 and rebuilt after
the Civil War in 1875, this historic structure was designed with interchangeable cast-iron plates—making it possible to
relocate the entire lighthouse 1.3 miles inland when beach erosion threatened it in 1889. What to expect:
- 130 steps to the observation deck (167 feet high)
- Breathtaking 360° views of the Atlantic Ocean and maritime forest
- Admission: $2 per person (must be 44″ tall to climb)
- Best time: Sunrise for golden light photographs
⚠️ Current Status (January 2026): The lighthouse is temporarily closed for structural repairs. Check the official park website for reopening updates.
2. Explore Boneyard Beach
This is the shot you’ve seen on Instagram. Boneyard Beach features a hauntingly beautiful landscape of sun-bleached,
skeletal tree trunks rising from the sand—the result of decades of coastal erosion reclaiming the maritime forest. Pro tips for photographers:
- Visit at low tide for the best access and reflections
- Sunrise offers dramatic lighting with fewer crowds
- The south end of the island has the most dramatic boneyard scenes
- Use #HuntingIsland and #BoneyardBeach for maximum reach
🦈 Bonus activity: The beaches at Hunting Island are excellent for shark teeth hunting! Look along the tide line after storms for fossilized teeth—kids love this treasure hunt.
3. Hike the Maritime Forest Trails
The park offers over 8 miles of trails winding through one of the most pristine maritime forests on the
Atlantic coast. Trail Options:
| Trail Name | Distance | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lighthouse Trail | 0.4 mi | Easy | Nature Center to lighthouse, paved |
| Magnolia Forest Trail | 1.2 mi | Easy | Family-friendly, shaded, great for kids |
| Marsh Boardwalk Trail | 0.8 mi | Easy | Elevated boardwalk, sunset views, bird watching |
| Maritime Forest Trail | 2.0 mi | Moderate | Live oaks, palmettos, Spanish moss |
| Diamondback Rattlesnake Trail | 1.9-2.3 mi | Moderate | For experienced hikers, wildlife spotting |
| Island Bike/Hike Trail | 8.0 mi | Moderate | Full island loop, biking allowed |
Pro tip: The Marsh Boardwalk at sunset is a must—bring your camera for stunning views over the tidal flats.
Wildlife you might spot: White-tailed deer, raccoons, great blue herons, painted buntings, alligators,
diamondback rattlesnakes, and dolphins just offshore.
4. Fish the 950-Foot Pier at Fripp Inlet
The rebuilt fishing pier (reopened 2021) extends 950 feet into the tidal waters of Fripp Inlet, offering some of the
best inshore fishing in the Lowcountry. What you can catch:
- Red drum (redfish)
- Flounder
- Spotted sea trout
- Sheepshead
- Blue crabs
Good to know:
- No fishing license required when fishing from the pier
- Equipment loaner program available at the Nature Center
- Shark fishing is popular in the deeper waters of the inlet
5. Visit the Nature Center
Perfect for families, the Hunting Island Nature Center features live animals, interactive exhibits, and knowledgeable
staff who bring the island’s ecosystem to life. What you’ll find:
- Live alligators, sea turtles, and snakes
- Touch tanks with local marine life
- Educational displays on barrier island ecology
- Free fishing rod loaner program
- Free WiFi available
Hours: 9 AM – 4 PM daily
6. Kayak the Salt Marsh and Lagoon
The calm waters of the saltwater lagoon and surrounding marsh offer ideal conditions for kayaking and
paddleboarding—especially for beginners.
- Dolphin sightings are common
- Great bird watching (pelicans, herons, egrets)
- Rentals available nearby
- Guided eco-tours highlight hidden gems
7. Witness Loggerhead Sea Turtle Nesting
From mid-May through October, endangered loggerhead sea turtles come ashore to nest on Hunting Island’s beaches. The
Friends of Hunting Island organization manages a volunteer nest monitoring program. How to participate:
- Join the “Adopt a Nest” program to support conservation
- Volunteer for the turtle patrol (training required)
- Follow the “Lights Out for Turtles” guidelines if staying overnight
Where to Stay: Camping, RV, and Lodging Options
Hunting Island offers accommodation for every type of traveler—from tent campers to full-hookup RV enthusiasts.
| Site Type | Sites | Amenities | Max Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Sites | 102 | Water, Electric (20/30/50 Amp) | Up to 40 ft |
| Walk-in Tent Sites | 25 | Tent pads, fire rings, shared water | 2 tents max |
| Primitive Group | 1 area | Picnic tables, central water | 30 people max |
Rates vary by season and demand. Call 1-866-345-PARK or book online.
Site Rules
- Maximum 2 vehicles per site (or 1 vehicle + boat/trailer)
- Maximum 6 occupants or one family unit per site
- Generators prohibited in tent camping areas
- Laundry facilities and dump station available
Booking Strategy
- Summer weekends: Book the moment reservations open
- Fall weekends: Book 3-6 months ahead
- Weekdays: Often available 1-2 weeks out
- Reservations open 13 months in advance
- Pro tip: Consider an ALL Park Passport ($99/year) for unlimited park entry + free lighthouse admission
Pet Policy
- Leash requirement: 6 feet maximum, at all times
- Beach restrictions: No dogs 10 AM – 5 PM, March–October
- North Beach: Dogs prohibited past posted markers (shorebird protection)
- Not allowed: Pier, lighthouse complex, park buildings
Best Time to Visit Hunting Island
| Season | Weather | Crowds | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild (65-80°F) | Medium | Migratory birds, wildflowers |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Hot (85-95°F) | High | Swimming, turtle nesting |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Warm (70-85°F) | Low | ⭐ BEST TIME – fewer bugs! |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Cool (50-65°F) | Very Low | Solitude, photography |
⚠️ Tick Warning
Hunting Island has a significant tick population, especially during summer months. Wear long pants tucked into socks on
trails, use DEET or permethrin-based repellent, and perform thorough tick checks after hiking.
Hurricane Season Considerations
Hunting Island is located in a hurricane-prone region. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November
30. During active storms, the park may close temporarily for visitor safety. Always check the official park website or
call ahead during hurricane season.
Storm preparation tips:
- Monitor weather forecasts before and during your trip
- Have a backup plan for evacuation if camping during storm threats
- The park typically provides 24-48 hours notice before mandatory evacuations
- Refunds are generally available for storm-related cancellations
Getting There & Parking
From major cities:
- Beaufort, SC: 15 miles (25 minutes via US-21 East)
- Charleston, SC: 70 miles (1.5 hours via US-17 South)
- Savannah, GA: 45 miles (1 hour via I-95 North)
- Hilton Head Island: 40 miles (1 hour)
Parking & Accessibility:
- Multiple parking areas throughout the park
- Handicap-accessible spaces available
- “Mobi-Mat” beach access mats for wheelchair users
- Track Chair available for visitors with mobility impairments (reserve 48 hours ahead)
- EV charging station available near park entrance
- Golf carts permitted in park ($10/day fee)
Nearby Attractions
Extend your trip with these nearby destinations:
- Historic Beaufort (15 min) – Antebellum architecture, waterfront dining
- St. Phillips Island Ferry – Uninhabited barrier island accessible via Coastal Expeditions guided boat tours (additional fees apply)
- Penn Center – National Historic Landmark, African American heritage site
- Edisto Beach State Park – Quieter beach camping alternative (1.5 hours)
Explore more: All South Carolina State Parks | Camping Guide | Fishing in State Parks
💰 Trip Cost Estimator
Planning your budget? Here’s what to expect for a Hunting Island trip:
| Expense | Day Trip | Weekend Camping | Week Stay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park Entry Fee | $8/adult | $8/adult | $8/adult |
| Camping | — | $50-80 | $175-280 |
| Lighthouse Admission | $2 | $2 | $2 |
| Food (est.) | $20 | $60 | $200 |
| Gas from Charleston | $15 | $15 | $15 |
| Estimated Total | $45 | $135-165 | $400-505 |
💡 Money-saving tip: Consider an ALL Park Passport ($99/year) for unlimited park entry to all South Carolina State Parks + free lighthouse admission.
🐢 Wildlife Viewing Calendar
Hunting Island is a wildlife haven. Here’s when to spot your favorite species:
| Animal | Best Months | Where to Look | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🐢 Loggerhead Sea Turtles | May-August | North Beach (nesting) | Stay 50ft away from nests |
| 🐬 Bottlenose Dolphins | Year-round | Fishing Pier, Fripp Inlet | Best at high tide |
| 🐊 Alligators | March-October | Marsh Boardwalk, Lagoon | Keep 60ft distance |
| 🦅 Painted Buntings | April-May | Nature Center feeders | Early morning best |
| 🦌 White-tailed Deer | Year-round | Maritime Forest trails | Dawn/dusk |
| 🦀 Ghost Crabs | Year-round | Beach at night | Bring a flashlight |
⚠️ Safety Information
Emergency Contacts
- Park Office: (843) 838-2011
- Emergency (911): Beaufort County Sheriff
- Nearest Hospital: Beaufort Memorial Hospital (25 min drive)
- Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
Common Hazards & How to Stay Safe
| Hazard | Risk Level | Prevention |
|---|---|---|
| 🐊 Alligators | Moderate | Stay 60ft away, never feed them |
| 🐍 Rattlesnakes | Low | Stay on trails, watch your step |
| 🦟 Mosquitoes/No-see-ums | High (summer) | DEET spray, long sleeves at dusk |
| 🌊 Rip Currents | Moderate | Swim parallel to shore if caught |
| ☀️ Heat Exhaustion | High (summer) | Drink 1 gallon water/day, seek shade |
| 🌀 Hurricanes | Seasonal (Jun-Nov) | Check forecasts, follow evacuation orders |
🎒 What to Pack
Beach Day Essentials
- ✅ Sunscreen SPF 30+ (reef-safe preferred)
- ✅ Beach umbrella or pop-up shade
- ✅ Water shoes (shells and driftwood can be sharp)
- ✅ Insect repellent (no-see-ums are aggressive)
- ✅ Reusable water bottle (at least 1 gallon for summer)
- ✅ Small bag for shark teeth & shells
Camping Must-Haves
- ✅ Tent with sturdy rain fly (summer storms are sudden)
- ✅ Lantern or headlamp (campground is dark)
- ✅ Cooler with plenty of ice
- ✅ Firewood ($5-7 at camp store, cannot bring from outside)
- ✅ Tarp for under tent (sandy soil)
- ✅ Extra tent stakes (sand doesn’t hold well)
Photography Gear
- 📷 Wide-angle lens for Boneyard Beach
- 📷 Tripod for sunrise/sunset shots
- 📷 Polarizing filter for water reflections
- 📷 Waterproof bag (salt spray damages equipment)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you swim at Hunting Island State Park?
Yes! The park has five miles of beach open for swimming. However, there are no lifeguards on duty—swim at your own risk. The water is generally calm but be aware of rip currents, especially after storms. The gradual slope makes it good for families with children.
Are dogs allowed on Hunting Island Beach?
Yes, with restrictions. Dogs must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times. From March through October, dogs are not allowed on the beach between 10 AM and 5 PM to protect nesting sea turtles and beach visitors. During off-peak hours and winter months, leashed dogs are welcome.
Is the Hunting Island Lighthouse open?
The lighthouse has been closed since February 2022 for major renovations due to cracks and corrosion in the historic cast-iron structure. It is expected to reopen in late 2025. When open, admission is per person to climb the 167 steps. Climbers must be at least 44 inches tall. This is the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina.
What was filmed at Hunting Island State Park?
The Vietnam War scenes in Forrest Gump (1994) were filmed at Hunting Island State Park. The lagoon area was transformed into a Vietnamese jungle with planted palmetto trees and digitally added mountains. Additionally, scenes for G.I. Jane (1997) were shot in the island’s forests, and the Netflix series Outer Banks frequently films here.
How far in advance should I book camping at Hunting Island?
For summer and fall weekends, book as soon as reservations open—11 months in advance. Hunting Island is one of South Carolina’s most popular camping destinations with only 100 campsites. Weekdays and winter dates may be available with shorter notice, but don’t count on it during peak season.
Why is the beach eroding at Hunting Island?
Hunting Island experiences one of the highest erosion rates on the U.S. East Coast—up to 30 feet per year in some areas. This creates the famous Boneyard Beach where dead trees toppled by erosion now lie scattered across the shore. The island is expected to lose about 10% of its landmass over the next 40 years. Regular beach renourishment projects help mitigate the loss.
Plan Your Visit
🏕️ Ready to Experience Hunting Island?
Book your campsite early—especially for fall weekends. Reservations open 11 months in advance.
Explore More South Carolina State Parks
Hunting Island 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.
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