Out of 47 state parks in the state of South Carolina, Hunting Island State Park is the most highly visited each year. The lighthouse, animals, beaches, Hunting Island lagoon, marshlands, and amazing inlet views attract more than one million visitors each year. When visiting the park, visitors can come for the day or stay awhile at the campsites. Check out the guide to visiting Hunting Island State Park.

Where Is Hunting Island Located

The island is located in the southern coastal region of South Carolina above Hilton Head to the south but below Charleston to the north. One of the most popular tourist islands is located one island over from Hunting called Fripp Island. 

When you’re in town and staying in Hilton Head or Charleston, this South Carolina State Park is an excellent day trip to help you escape the hustle and bustle highly developed areas.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Into Hunting Island State Park

The fee structure to enter the park is segmented by age ranges. As a result, the fee schedule is as follows-

Children 5 and under are free

8 dollars for adults between 16 and 64

4 dollars for children ranging from six to fifteen

South Carolina seniors over the age of 65 are admitted for 5 dollars

What Type Of Activities Are Available on The Island

You won’t run out of Hunting Island things to do while you are staying or visiting the barrier island. 

Beaching 

The most significant feature is the 5 miles of preserved beaches. As a result of this vast space at the Hunting Island state park beach, you can kick back in a chair, hunt for shells, play in the water, or walk from end to end. 

Biking and Hiking

Beyond the beach, hike or bike the eight miles of trails that meander past marshes, through maritime forests, and near the beach for ocean views. Check out a Hunting Island state park map before starting your adventure.

Boating

Bring along the boat or kayak and utilize the access ramp within the gates. The calm inland waters are perfect for exploring or fishing. Another option is watersports such as skiing or tubing. For the offshore boaters, travel out to sea through Fripp Inlet.

Pier Fishing

The Hunting Island fishing pier measures 1.120 feet in length. Therefore, if you don’t have a boat, anglers can still enjoy fishing in the Atlantic Ocean waters. In the event you don’t have gear, no problem rentals are available. Remember, you will be required to purchase a South Carolina saltwater fishing license. Lastly, read a Hunting Island fishing report before casting a line for tips on catching more fish.

History And Nature

Other fun activities for adults or children include the nature center, which has live reptiles. The park offers a museum to educate visitors about the historic lighthouse, and lastly, historical landmarks to learn about life on the island dating back hundreds of years. 

Climb The Hunting Island Lighthouse

Originally constrcuted in 1859 the lighthouse was in place to help keep mariners safe. During the civil war, the lighthouse was destroyed but rebuilt in in 1875. Interestingly enough, the lighthouse had to be relocated because of encroaching tidal waters. 

For a two-dollar fee, visitors have the opportunity to climb 167 steps to the top of the island’s lighthouse.  However, keep in mind that height requirements are in place. All climbers must be at a minimum of 44 inches.

Can You Camp In Hunting Island State Park

Camping is available within the state park. There are two campgrounds on the north end near the beach which can accommodate both tents and RV’s that are up to forty feet in length. Hunting Island campgrounds sites are equipped with power and water connections. 

For the more rustic camper, walk in spaces are available but do not include water or electric. Walking camping is for the rugged outdoor nature lover. 

Whether you coming in to stay in a tent or RV, remember to book a reservation in advance as they tend to fill up quickly. Lastly, you won’t find Fripp Island camping options which is located next to the state park.

Explore The Tranquil Beauty Of Hunting Island State Park

When your are looking for a day trip out of Charleston or Hilton Head or planning an extended getaway consider Hunting Island State Park. The park has everything you could ask for on an island between the beach, history, camping, nature trails and more. Stay on the island for a day or enjoy Hunting Island State Park camping for an extended trip. Put this on your list of places to explore in South Carolina.