Jones Gap State Park
South Carolina

Jones Gap State Park

Available Activities
  • Hiking
  • Camping
  • Fishing
  • Waterfall Viewing
Verified by America’s State Parks Editorial Team – Updated February 2026

Jones Gap State Park is part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness—featuring 50-ft and 120-ft waterfalls, SC’s first scenic river, 30+ miles of trails, and the state’s oldest fish hatchery!

Waterfalls

WaterfallDetails
💧 Jones Gap Falls50 ft (1mi moderate hike)
🌈 Rainbow Falls120 ft (5mi strenuous!)

Backcountry Camping

TypeCost
Individual$8-20/night
👥 Group (10-20)$4.40-5.50/person
📋 PermitRequired (leave no trace)

Trout Fishing

The Middle Saluda River—SC’s first designated scenic river—runs through the park. Visit the trout hatchery and feeding pond!

FAQ

Do I need parking reservations?

Recommended on weekends/holidays 9AM–1PM. Otherwise first-come, first-served.

🌊 South Carolina’s Waterfall Paradise

Reserve at SC State Parks.

Location & Getting There

Jones Gap State Park is located in South Carolina. The park’s coordinates are 35.1166, -82.5736. Check the park’s official website or your state parks app for detailed driving directions and GPS navigation tips.

Quick Facts

  • Location: South Carolina
  • Coordinates: 35.1166, -82.5736
  • Activities: Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing
  • Pets: Allowed on leash in most areas (check local rules)

Things to Do

South Carolina parks stretch from Blue Ridge Mountains to Lowcountry coast. Activities include hiking waterfall trails, swimming at beaches, kayaking cypress swamps and salt marshes, fishing for bass and redfish, camping in Spanish moss-draped settings, and exploring antebellum and Revolutionary War heritage.

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall are ideal with comfortable temperatures. Summer brings intense heat inland — coastal and mountain parks offer relief. Winter is mild, especially along the coast.

Visitor Tips

Admission $3-$8 per adult. Annual pass $99.95. Reservations through southcarolinaparks.com. Insect repellent is essential in Lowcountry parks May through September.

Explore More South Carolina State Parks

Jones Gap 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.

Sarah Mitchell

About the Author

Outdoor Editor & Trail Expert

Sarah Mitchell is an outdoor writer and trail researcher with over 8 years of experience exploring state parks across America. As the lead editor at AmericasStateParks.org, she has personally visited more than 200 parks in 42 states, logging thousands of trail miles and hundreds of campground nights. Sarah specializes in detailed park guides, accessibility information, and family-friendly outdoor planning. Her work focuses on helping first-time visitors feel confident and well-prepared for their state park adventures.

200+ state parks visited across 42 states | 8+ years of outdoor writing

Last updated: February 20, 2026

Park Location