Whether you’re looking for a place to play with the kiddos or to decompress with some off-screen time, the City of Charleston and Charleston County Parks and Recreation feature 60+ parks and recreational spots for you to enjoy.
Ready to plan your trip to the park? Grab your shades and trusty water bottle — here are some of the Holy City’s best:
Nature parks
We’re loving these scenic views at Laurel Hill County Park. | Photo by @amandakahalehoe
Laurel Hill County Park, 1251 Park West Blvd., Mt. Pleasant
Wander through 745 acres featuring trails, open meadows, and a small lake.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve, 1750 E. Ashley Ave., Folly Beach
Explore marshland and maritime forests, view the Morris Island Lighthouse, and take an organized bird walk when the event is in season.
Hampton Park, 30 Mary Murray Dr.
Recognized as one of the city’s largest parks, this 60-acre site features an old rose collection and seasonal displays. Bonus: There is on-site parking.
We can see why White Point Garden is a popular photo venue. | Photo by @fortheloveofcharleston
White Point Garden, 2 Murray Blvd.
This 5.7-acre waterfront park in the historic district offers views of Fort Sumter and the Charleston Harbor plus a central gazebo.
Stono River County Park, 3580 McLeod Mill Rd., Johns Island
Stroll along the marsh boardwalk and soak in views of the Limehouse Bridge and Stono River at this 85.5-acre site.
Riverfront Park is home to several events during the year. | Photo by @richardbellphoto
Riverfront Park, 1061 Everglades Ave., North Charleston
This waterfront spot located along the Cooper River is home to the Charleston Naval Base Memorial and hosts various events year-round, including the Charleston Wine + Food Festival.
Angel Oak Park, 3688 Angel Oak Rd.
Head to this free park on Johns Island to admire the 65-ft high Angel Oak Tree that’s estimated to be ~300-400 years old.
Family parks
Charles Towne Landing, 1500 Old Towne Rd.
Visit this historic site recognized as the birthplace of South Carolina to explore six miles of trails, 664 acres of scenery, and an alley of oaks, plus a 12-room exhibit hall.
We’ll stroll on this tranquil path at Edisto Beach State Park any day. | Photo by @roxx_pics
Edisto Beach State Park, 8377 State Cabin Rd., Edisto Island
This 1,255-acre park has an Environmental Learning Center with interactive displays and two campgrounds, plus 1.5 miles of beach.
Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site, 300 State Park Rd., Summerville
Tour an interpretive trail featuring exhibits and kiosks, walk through the historic cemetery, and see the fort made of oyster shell concrete recognized as the nation’s best-preserved tabby fortification.
Folly Beach County Park has great sunset views. | Photo by @quintessent_holy_city
Folly Beach County Park, 1100 W. Ashley Ave., Folly Beach
Discover this spot on the west end of Folly Beach and check out a major Eastern Brown Pelican rookery.
Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy., Murrells Inlet
Experience three miles of beaches, spot 300+ species of birds, and view a National Historic Landmark.
Dog parks
James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr.
The lake is perfect for those hot summer days with your pup — just make sure you’re keeping an eye on them while they paddle.
Wannamaker County Park, 8888 University Blvd., North Charleston
Expect separate fenced-in areas for small and large dogs, a shade cloth, and a spray fountain for your pup to cool off called the Splash Paw.
Palmetto Islands County Park, 444 Needlerush Pkwy., Mt. Pleasant
Explore this off-leash dog park featuring separate sections for dogs based on size, a shaded area, and a water fountain for your pup.
Johns Island County Park, 2662 Mullet Hall Rd., Johns Island
Let your pup roam off leash at this dog park featuring benches, tables, and a dog washing area.
Sports parks
SK8 Charleston, 1549 Oceanic St.
Check out this 32,000-sqft concrete skate park that boasts a ~200-ft long snake run, a large viewing deck, and multiple bowls.
Corrine Jones Park, 36 Marlow Dr.
This park is complete with a playground, picnic tables and benches, and athletic fields in addition to a community garden.
Moultrie Playground, 41 Ashley Ave.
Get a little friendly competition going with lighted tennis courts, pickleball courts, a basketball court, and a ball field with views of Colonial Lake.
Hazel Parker Playground, 70 E. Bay St.
Between a basketball court, tennis courts, and a playground, there’s something for everyone at this local spot.
Tiedemann Park and Nature Center, 38 Elizabeth St.
You can’t miss this park’s large green space, basketball court, and playground.
Ackerman Park, 55 Sycamore Ave.
Bring your pup to this fenced-in dog area or explore the youth skateboard park or soccer fields.
Your park grab bag
Picked your perfect park? Make the most out of your experience with our favorite items for a relaxing day outside:
- Is there anything quite like sitting in the shade and enjoying a good book? Check out our guide to books by local authors to help choose your next great read.
- The Kindle Paperwhite is a lightweight e-reader option that stands up to bright sunlight.
- A good water bottle keeps you hydrated — we’re big fans of the best-selling Owala FreeSip + this insulated stackable tumbler from Asheville NC-based retailer Pirani.
- Heading to the park with kids? Check out the Owala FreeSip for kids.
- Don’t forget the travel-size bug spray and sunscreen.
- These sunglasses from Nordstrom Rack are available at discount prices + have a style for everyone.
- Keep it all together in a handy tote bag — these adorable tote bags are all crafted by small businesses and local makers.
Ready to visit these local parks but don’t know where to start? We’ve created this handy map so you can find all of these featured parks.
But that’s not all. We want to hear from you: What’s your favorite park activity to do in our city? Let us know.
