These South Carolina State Parks Offer an Affordable Vacation Alternative

Location:

Greenville, SC

Highlights:

Looking for a peaceful escape into nature without leaving town? Lake Conestee Nature Park offers 400 acres of wetlands and forest, perfect for walking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with the outdoors.

Recommended For:

Birdwatchers, families, photographers, walkers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking urban-accessible green space.

What we Love:

Over 200 bird species, scenic boardwalks through wetlands, a mix of paved and natural trails, and a strong conservation legacy.

• Walk 12 miles of trails—6 paved and 1 mile of boardwalk—ideal for strollers, wheelchairs, and casual hikers.
• Birdwatch in a designated Important Bird Area, where you might spot warblers, herons, owls, and migrating flocks.
• Discover diverse habitats including bottomland forest, open water, and marsh, rich with native flora and fauna.
• Connect with Greenville’s greenway system—many trails link directly to city routes for added adventure or commuting.

Cost:

Free entry; donations appreciated to support park maintenance and conservation efforts.

Distance from Downtown Greenville:

Expect the drive to take around 10 minutes.

How to Get to Lake Conestee Nature Park:

From downtown Greenville, take South Main Street to Mauldin Road. Turn right onto Fork Shoals Road; the main entrance is just past the baseball fields and Conestee Park.

Address:

601 Fork Shoals Rd, Greenville, SC 29605
Phone: 864-277-2004

Location:

Blackville, SC

Highlights:

If you’re into peaceful lakeside views and historic charm, this park is a perfect pick. Barnwell State Park offers great fishing, cozy cabins from the 1930s, and a relaxing trail through nature—all tucked into South Carolina’s countryside.

Recommended For:

Anglers, families, history buffs, cabin campers, and travelers seeking a low-key outdoor retreat.

What we Love:

Three quiet fishing lakes, vintage Civilian Conservation Corps-era buildings, and a serene nature trail with waterside views.

• Fish in any of the park’s three small lakes—bring your own gear or rent rods and boats on site.
• Stay overnight at one of five historic cabins or set up at one of the 20+ campsites available to guests.
• Walk the scenic nature trail that loops around the lake and offers a peaceful spot for wildlife watching.
• Picnic under the original CCC-era shelters, which add rustic charm to your lunch break or family gathering.

Cost:

Free day-use admission; fees apply for camping, cabin rentals, and gear rentals.

Distance from Augusta, GA:

Expect the drive to take around 1 hour.

How to Get to Barnwell State Park:

From Augusta, take US-278 East toward Barnwell. Turn left onto SC-3 North, then follow State Park Road to the entrance near Blackville.

Address:

223 State Park Rd, Blackville, SC 29817
Phone: 803-284-2212

Location:

Charleston, SC

Highlights:

If you’re even a little curious about South Carolina’s colonial roots, you’ll love wandering Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. It’s a fun, interactive way to explore the story of the state’s earliest British settlers, all while surrounded by lush scenery and wildlife.

Recommended For:

Families, history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone looking for a laid-back cultural outing near Charleston.

What we Love:

The 17th-century replica ship, the scenic trails, and the natural habitat zoo with bears and bison make this spot a history-meets-nature gem.

• Explore a 665-acre park filled with historical landmarks, including a replica trading ship and a Visitor Center rich with interactive exhibits.
• Meet native animals like black bears, bison, otters, and more in the on-site Animal Forest zoo.
• Walk six miles of trails, including a self-guided audio tour that brings colonial history to life at your pace.
• Learn about South Carolina's first permanent European settlement and its legacy.

Cost:

$10 per adult, $6.50 for SC seniors, $6 for ages 6–15, free for kids under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

How to Get to Charles Towne Landing:

From Columbia, take I-26 E toward Charleston. Merge onto I-526 W via exit 212B, then take exit 11B onto Paul Cantrell Blvd. Follow signs to Old Towne Road and look for the entrance on your left.

Address:

Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Towne Rd, Charleston, SC
Phone: 843-852-4200

Romantic South Carolina State Parks

Location:

Cheraw, SC

Highlights:

If you’re craving a blend of peaceful nature and a great game of golf, Cheraw State Park is the perfect pick. It’s got a beautiful lakeside setting, top-notch golf, and even boat-in-only campsites for a bit of adventure.

Recommended For:

Golfers, campers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families looking for a scenic weekend escape.

What we Love:

The pine-forest golf course, the peaceful 300-acre lake, and the cozy lakeside cabins offer something special for every kind of traveler.

• Play a round on the park’s 18-hole championship golf course nestled in towering pines.
• Stay in one of nine fully equipped cabins or choose from lakeside campsites—two of which are only accessible by boat for a more secluded retreat.
• Paddle or fish in the 300-acre lake using your own non-motorized boat or one available to rent onsite.
• Relax with stunning natural views, shaded trails, and peaceful mornings by the water.

Cost:

Free entry; camping, cabin, and golf fees vary

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

How to Get to Cheraw State Park:

Take I-20 E from Columbia toward Florence. Exit onto US-601 N, then follow US-1 N to Cheraw. Turn right onto State Park Road to reach the main entrance.

Address:

Cheraw State Park, 100 State Park Rd, Cheraw, SC
Phone: 843-537-9656

Location:

Chester, SC

Highlights:

Need a quick getaway with water views, peaceful trails, and a little adventure? Chester State Park is a laid-back gem where you can fish, hike, paddle, and even toss a disc—all in a single afternoon.

Recommended For:

Families, weekend wanderers, fishing fans, and anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors in the Piedmont Region.

What we Love:

The scenic footbridge, the charming 160-acre lake, and the unexpected fun of not one but two disc golf courses make this park stand out.

• Fish from the lakeside bridge, rent a boat from the boathouse, or launch your own at the park’s ramp.
• Stroll the 1.3-mile trail circling the lake, with beautiful views and birdwatching along the way.
• Play on one of two disc golf courses—ideal for both beginners and more competitive players.
• Unwind with a picnic or paddle session, surrounded by the calm beauty of the Piedmont Region.

Cost:

$3 per adult, $1.50 for SC seniors, $1 for ages 6–15, free for children under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take around 1 hour and 20 minutes.

How to Get to Chester State Park:

Take I-77 N from Columbia to Exit 55. Merge onto SC-97 N toward Chester, then follow signs to State Park Road and the park entrance.

Address:

Chester State Park, 759 State Park Rd, Chester, SC
Phone: 803-385-2680

Location:

Summerville, SC

Highlights:

If you’ve ever wanted to walk through a live archaeological site, Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site is a fascinating step into South Carolina’s colonial past. It’s quiet, educational, and full of little surprises—like tabby ruins and a centuries-old bell tower.

Recommended For:

History lovers, archaeology enthusiasts, quiet walkers, and families looking for an educational stop.

What we Love:

The blend of preserved ruins and active digs, plus the well-marked interpretive trail that makes the past feel close and alive.

• See the remnants of a colonial church, shipping wharves, and a rare fort made of oyster-shell tabby concrete.
• Follow an interpretive trail that explains the area’s colonial history with signs and exhibits.
• Witness ongoing archaeological work that’s helping reveal more of the town’s 18th-century story.
• Learn about South Carolina’s early trade and defense through hands-on educational experiences and exhibits.

Cost:

$3 per adult, $1.50 for SC seniors, $1 for ages 6–15, free for kids under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Rhe drive takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

How to Get to Colonial Dorchester:

From Columbia, take I-26 E toward Charleston. Use Exit 199B to merge onto US-17 ALT N toward Summerville. Follow signs to Colonial Dorchester on State Park Road.

Address:

Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, 300 State Park Rd, Summerville, SC
Phone: 843-873-1740

South Carolina State Parks for Families

Location:

Spartanburg, SC

Highlights:

If you’re into horseback riding or just want to explore miles of scenic trails, Croft State Park is an incredible outdoor escape. With its military history, equestrian arena, and peaceful lake, there’s truly something here for every kind of nature lover.

Recommended For:

Equestrians, mountain bikers, campers, hikers, and families looking for an action-packed day in nature.

What we Love:

The equestrian center with its big arena, the diversity of trails, and the relaxing lake make this park a well-rounded outdoor adventure spot.

• Ride more than 20 miles of equestrian trails and make use of the on-site equestrian arena and stables with rental stalls.
• Bike or hike over 20 miles of multi-use trails, plus 2.5 miles reserved just for hiking.
• Camp at spacious wooded sites or just spend the day picnicking and enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Fish or swim in the lake, a relaxing centerpiece for this former military training site turned recreation haven.

Cost:

$3 per adult, $1.50 for SC seniors, $1 for ages 6–15, free for children under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take about 1 hour and 25 minutes.

How to Get to Croft State Park:

From Columbia, take I-26 W toward Spartanburg. Use Exit 22 for SC-296 W toward Reidville Road, then turn right on SC-56 S and follow signs to Croft State Park Road.

Address:

Croft State Park, 450 Croft State Park Rd, Spartanburg, SC
Phone: 864-585-1283

Location:

Salem, SC

Highlights:

If crystal-clear mountain lakes and quiet forest escapes speak to your soul, Devil's Fork State Park is a must-visit. It’s the only public gateway to Lake Jocassee—and the views, water adventures, and remote campsites are unforgettable.

Recommended For:

Nature lovers, campers, paddlers, SCUBA divers, and anyone looking for peaceful lake vibes in the Upstate.

What we Love:

The sparkling waters of Lake Jocassee, boat-in-only campsites, and those serene villas right on the shore—pure South Carolina magic.

• Swim or snorkel in some of the clearest waters in the Southeast, ideal for spotting sunken roads and natural rock formations.
• Paddle a kayak or canoe across Lake Jocassee’s quiet coves and lush forest-lined shores.
• Stay in one of 20 lakeside villas, more than 70 traditional campsites, or paddle in to a remote boat-in-only site for extra solitude.
• Dive with SCUBA gear to explore submerged historic features and enjoy some of the best freshwater diving in the region.

Cost:

$8 per adult, $5 for SC seniors, $4 for ages 6–15, free for children under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

How to Get to Devil's Fork State Park:

Take I-26 W from Columbia, then US-76 W to SC-28. Continue through Seneca and follow SC-11 N to Jocassee Lake Road. The park entrance is on Holcombe Circle in Salem.

Address:

Devil's Fork State Park, 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC
Phone: 864-944-2639

Location:

Prosperity, SC

Highlights:

Looking for a quick lakeside escape from Columbia? Dreher Island State Park is just 30 miles away and packed with everything you need for a relaxed day or weekend by the water.

Recommended For:

Boaters, anglers, campers, and families seeking an easy-access nature getaway on Lake Murray.

What we Love:

The unique island setting, the fishing shelters with Wi-Fi, and the peaceful lake views from almost every trail and campsite.

• Launch your boat from one of three ramps or drop a line from fishing shelters with catch-and-release tanks.
• Camp under the stars on lakeside tent or RV sites, many with beautiful views and shady spots.
• Hike three well-marked trails, perfect for light walks and spotting birds and wildlife along the shoreline.
• Picnic at one of the park’s shelters or find a quiet lakeside spot to relax and recharge.

Cost:

$3 per adult, $1.50 for SC seniors, $1 for ages 6–15, free for children under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take about 45 minutes.

How to Get to Dreher Island:

From Columbia, take I-26 W to Exit 91. Follow SC-48 N and SC-391 N, then turn left onto State Park Road. Look for the entrance signs near Lake Murray.

Address:

Dreher Island State Park, 3677 State Park Rd, Prosperity, SC
Phone: 803-364-4152

Location:

Edisto Island, SC

Highlights:

Want a quiet beach day with trails, shells, and ocean breezes? Edisto Beach State Park is a serene coastal retreat where accessibility, education, and natural beauty come together effortlessly.

Recommended For:

Beachcombers, families, nature lovers, cyclists, and anyone looking for a peaceful day by the sea.

What we Love:

The inclusive trail system, the oceanfront picnic spots, and the Environmental Learning Center make this park both beautiful and meaningful.

• Walk or bike the state’s largest handicap-accessible trail system, winding through maritime forest and salt marsh.
• Relax along 1.5 miles of beachfront, perfect for collecting shells or watching the waves roll in.
• Learn about the island’s ecology at the Environmental Learning Center, which offers engaging exhibits and programs for all ages.
• Picnic with ocean views from one of the park’s two covered beachside shelters.

Cost:

$8 per adult, $5 for SC seniors, $4 for ages 6–15, free for children under 5

Distance from Columbia:

Expect the drive to take about 2 hours and 10 minutes.

How to Get to Edisto Beach State Park:

Take I-26 E from Columbia toward Charleston. Exit onto US-17 S, then turn right on SC-174 to Edisto Island. Follow signs to State Cabin Road and the beachfront entrance.

Address:

Edisto Beach State Park, 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC
Phone: 843-869-2156