When you head out to the great outdoors you never know how the day will unfold. Each of these three state parks offers spectacular views, unique activities and a variety of accommodations.
Three South Carolina State Parks Perfect for Your Next Camping Trip
Carved into the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Table Rock State Park’s timeless natural beauty is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The towering mountain, which gives the park its name, is one of South Carolina’s most iconic landmarks and serves as a backdrop for the 3,000-acre park and its facilities.
Visitors can enjoy two camping areas, one located near the park entrance and the other near White Oaks picnic area, and 14 fully furnished cabins. Table Rock’s extensive trail system takes hikers past mountain streams and waterfalls on their way to the tops of Pinnacle and Table Rock mountains. After a day of hiking, cool off at an old-fashioned swimming hole on Lake Pinnacle.
Enjoy the breathtaking view from the Caesars Head Overlook in Caesars Head State Park, just a short drive away, during your stay. If you’re looking for a romantic afternoon for two, look no further than Victoria Valley Vineyards in the tiny town of Cleveland where you can enjoy a glass of wine while you sit on the open terrace with the mountains in the distance.
Take it easy and spend a day on one of the park’s two lakes where you can fish for bass, bream and catfish. Non-motorized fishing boats, canoes, kayaks and pedal boats are all available for rent.
Book your stay at Table Rock State Park.
Dreher Island State Park
Spanning three islands, 348 acres and providing access to 12 miles of Lake Murray shoreline, Dreher Island State Park is one of the Midland’s most cherished natural sanctuaries. Only about 30 miles from downtown Columbia, visitors are drawn to the park for its meandering natural trails and largemouth bass fishing that has attracted numerous national fishing tournaments.
In addition to traditional RV and tent campsites, both camper cabins and villas are now available to rent. The five lakeside villas are fully furnished and include complimentary Wi-Fi and satellite television while the ten camber cabins provide a more rustic camping experience for those that want to experience the great outdoors but still have a roof over their heads.
South Carolina is The Birthplace of Barbecue and the home of the Official Four Sauces, and nearby Farm Boys BBQ is a local favorite. Known for their mustard sauce and array of delicious sides (make sure you try their mac and cheese), Farm Boys BBQ is the perfect spot to enjoy authentic South Carolina barbeque during your stay.
A day of fishing is a wonderful way to enjoy spending time outdoors with family and friends. This park participates in the Tackle Loaner Program, which allows visitors to borrow a rod, reel and tackle box at no charge. In addition to fishing on Lake Murray, visitors are permitted to go scuba diving, but the park does not have rental equipment.
Book your stay at Dreher Island State Park.
Huntington Beach State Park
With the sweeping Grand Strand beach as its focal point, Huntington Beach State Park is a natural gateway to the South Carolina coastline. Here, you can revel in the sea-breeze while camping, go surf fishing and enjoy some of the top birding on the East Coast. Nature lovers will also enjoy the park’s wide variety of programming and a chance to see loggerhead turtles.
Each of the 170 campsites has water and electrical hookups and is convenient to hot showers and restrooms. While 10 campers may use these sites, the park also offers a designated walk-in tent site area that includes tent pads and central water. After a night under the stars, wake up early and enjoy a breathtaking sunrise on the beach before going for a swim. A stroll along the park’s iconic causeway is a great way to observe a variety of the park’s wildlife.
The park is also home to Atalaya, the Moorish-style winter retreat of renowned 20th-century sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington and her husband, philanthropist and Spanish scholar Archer Huntington. Visitors can take self-guided or docent-led tours of the castle-like structure where the cool corridors provide a welcome respite from the sun and sand. After a day of exploring, head over to Rustic Table in Pawleys Island for the best comfort food and home-style dining in town. South Carolina Chef Ambassador Adam Kirby’s delicious menu focuses on fresh ingredients and is a favorite among locals and visitors.
Book your stay at Huntington Island State Park.
Whether you’re looking for a campsite along the coast, a lakeside villa or a romantic mountain cabin getaway, South Carolina’s state parks have you covered.
