A Perfect Day in South Carolina State Parks

From the sandy beaches of the coast to the cascading waterfalls of the mountains, a perfect day in a South Carolina state park is easy to achieve.

When You Want a History Lesson

Drive to Summerville to explore Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site. The trading town of Dorchester along the Ashley River flourished until the beginning of the Revolutionary War, when it was abandoned. Today, only a few structures remain. Explore the tabby fort, the old brick bell tower and historical cemetery. Walk the interpretive trail with exhibits that explain the history of the village, and if you’re lucky, watch a live archaeological dig.

When You Want to Get on the Water

Head out to Dreher Island State Park in Prosperity with a boat in tow to enjoy sprawling Lake Murray. Whether you decide to fish, tube, swim or simply cruise, there are plenty of water activities for the entire family.

When You Want to See Fall Colors

As the weather cools and leaves turn, grab your picnic basket and head out for the day at Caesars Head State Park in Cleveland. Venture to the overlook with your binoculars and camera for sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains bathed in color. Take the short—but interesting—path through the Devils Kitchen, and if you’re feeling ambitious, hike to the Raven Cliff Falls overlook for more autumn splendor and a waterfall view.

When You Want Waterfalls

For an easy half-mile hike with some eye candy at the end, the 60-foot Station Cove Falls, accessible from Oconee Station State Historic Site in Walhalla, is the ticket. Cool off in the falls before enjoying a picnic lunch near the park’s main office. As a bonus, explore the historical structures of this once-military compound and trading post.

When You Want Lakefront Camping

With over 170 campsites, most of which are lakefront, Hamilton Branch State Park in Plum Branch won’t disappoint. Pack up the camper for the weekend, fish just feet from your campsite and cool o. in Lake Thurmond on your float. 

When You Want a Beach Day

Wake up early, pack a lunch and your beach bag, and make your way to Huntington Beach State Park in Murrells Inlet for some early-morning wildlife watching on the causeway. More than 300 species of birds have been spotted within the park, plus nesting loggerhead sea turtles, alligators and minks. Enjoy a leisurely day relaxing and playing on the beach, and then treat yourself with a scoop of locally made ice cream at Spoonbill’s.

When You Want an Epic Paddle

Two state parks flank the popular 23-mile Edisto River Canoe & Kayak Trail. Put in early at Colleton State Park for a 6- to 8-hour paddle along the Edisto River, the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America. Pack a lunch to enjoy on one of the sandbars, and experience beautiful Lowcountry scenery along the way. As you arrive at Givhans Ferry State Park, you’ll see the impressive limestone bluffs that signal the end of your journey. Reserve a cabin or campsite to spend the night.

Lakes of Upstate South Carolina

From fishing to boating to swimming and paddling, the lakes of the upstate have it all.

Devils Fork State Park, Salem
Devils Fork State Park offers the only public access to the clear, sparkling waters of undeveloped Lake Jocassee. Boat, paddle, explore waterfalls, camp or stay in one of the modern villas at this popular park.

Lake Hartwell State Park, Fair Play
Access Lake Hartwell, best known for its fishing, from the boat ramp at Lake Hartwell State Park. The park is also popular with campers, offering RV and tent sites, as well as camper cabins.

Keowee-Toxaway State Park, Sunset
Hike, camp, paddle or relax the day away along the picturesque shoreline of Lake Keowee. Feeling adventurous? Try the new zipline at the park that takes you over the lake for awesome views.

Sadlers Creek State Park, Anderson
Sadlers Creek State Park is best-known for its wildlife and is a favorite picnicking and camping spot along the shores of Lake Hartwell.