South Carolina’s best state parks

Hunting Island State Park 

The state’s most visited park with a historic lighthouse and beautiful beaches. This semi-tropical barrier island draws visitors for its natural beaches, marsh boardwalk and lighthouse, which is temporarily closed for repairs. The park’s beach has been featured in several travel publications and was listed as a Top 25 beach in the United States by TripAdvisor. (50 miles from HHI)

Edisto Beach State Park

 Features beachfront areas and a marshy backcountry with educational exhibits. The park offers peaceful beaches, along with trails that meander through maritime forests and salt marshes. The environmental education center provides insight into the local ecology and cultural history. (Edisto Island, S.C.: 85 miles from HHI)

Sesquicentennial State Park 

Offers easy trails and a large lake for water activities in the Midlands. Often called “Sesqui,” this park provides a tranquil environment for picnicking, hiking and paddle boarding on a scenic lake. (Columbia, S.C.: 160 miles from HHI)

Huntington Beach State Park

Known for bird watching, beach activities and Atalaya Castle. This park offers one of the best bird-watching locations on the East Coast, along with a pristine beach and the historic Atalaya Castle, the winter home of sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington.
(Murrells Inlet, S.C.: 110 miles from HHI)

Oconee State Park 

Set in a picturesque mountain lake environment, ideal for family outings. Featuring traditional park facilities, rustic cabins and numerous trails, this park is also a gateway to the Foothills Trail. (Mountain Rest, S.C.: 235 miles from HHI)

Paris Mountain State Park 

Popular for trips with trails and lake activities near Greenville. It features a reservoir for fishing and canoeing, along with trails for biking and hiking that range from easy to challenging. (Greenville, S.C.: 250 miles from HHI)

Keowee Toxaway State Park 

Offers dramatic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Lake Keowee access. This park provides a glimpse into the Cherokee culture through its interpretive museum and offers activities such as hiking, fishing and camping. (Sunset, S.C.: 230 miles from HHI)

Table Rock State Park 

Known for hiking, camping and exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with its scenic trails leading to waterfalls and mountain summits, as well as a popular campground and fishing lake. (Pickens, S.C.: 250 miles from HHI)

Jones Gap State Park 

Features rugged mountainous hikes and beautiful waterfalls. Together with Caesars Head, this park forms the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, offering more than 60 miles of hiking trails and pristine streams that are ideal for trout fishing. (Marietta, S.C.: 260 miles from HHI)

Caesars Head State Park 

Offers spectacular panoramic views and extensive hiking trails. Part of the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, this park is known for the breathtaking overlooks and challenging trails that lead adventurers to hidden waterfalls and granite outcroppings. (Cleveland, S.C.: 255 miles from HHI)

Devils Fork State Park 

The access point to Lake Jocassee, known for its clear waters ideal for fishing and boating. Visitors can enjoy scuba diving, kayaking and the spectacular backdrop of the Jocassee Gorges. (Salem, S.C.: 240 miles from HHI)

Park finder 

Whether you’re looking for an adventure in the mountains or a relaxing weekend by the sea, South Carolina has a state park for you. Here is an interactive map.