Charleston is full of natural wonders.
There are dozens of parks in and around Charleston that will offer you an endless number of activities you can get involved with. Enjoy beaches, palm trees, creeks, and many other natural wonders. Whether you’re into hiking, cycling, rollerskating, or simply strolling through the city, you’ll never run out of options.
Here are some popular parks you shouldn’t miss when visiting Charleston:
1. Brittlebank Park
Brittlebank Park is located right next to the famous Joe Riley Stadium. Enjoy the impressive views of the Ashley River while relaxing on the grass. There’s also a fun playground for children and several pathways for walking, bicycling, or rollerskating. Don’t forget to bring your pup! There’s a special area where dogs can be left off-leash to roam around freely.
Where: đź“Ť185 Lockwood Dr
Hours: ⏰Open daily 8:00am-7:00pm
2. Palmetto Islands County Park
This county park lets you rent a bike or a paddle boat. It also has plenty of picnic areas and play areas, so it’s ideal to visit with family. Make sure you stop at their observation tower. The views from the top are amazing and it has two fun slides your children will go crazy for.
Where: đź“Ť444 Needlerush Pkwy
Hours: ⏰Open daily 8:00am-8:00pm
3. Charleston Waterfront Park
This is where you’ll find the Instagram famous Pineapple Fountain. Waterfront Park is one of the city’s most visited parks and offers the best views of Charleston Harbor. Dogs are allowed but they must always be on a leash! Bring your book and take over a bench.
Where: đź“ŤVendue Range, Concord St
Hours: ⏰Always open
4. Folly Beach County Park
There’s no better place to walk on the sand, swim, fly a kite and take in the summer sun. Folly Beach has a beautiful Wishing Tree that you can’t miss. Get there early as it is a very popular spot and the parking lot fills up quickly.
Where: đź“Ť1100 W Ashley Ave
Hours: ⏰Open daily 8:00am-8:00pm
5. James Island County Park
Welcome to James Island County Park! This enormous park has a waterpark, playgrounds, bike trails, a fishing area, and a dog park. It’s only 15 minutes away from downtown Charleston and Folly Beach, yet, it’ll make you feel like you’re far away from the city, making it the perfect place to disconnect. It has a camping area, so pack your bags and stay as many days as you want.
Where: đź“Ť871 Riverland Park
Hours: ⏰Open daily 8:00am-8:00pm
6. Pickett Bridge Recreational Area
Beautiful, historic, and relaxing. Take a stroll down the old bridge that has now been turned into a park. There are a lot of benches where you can sit to watch the sunset holding the hand of that special person.
Where: đź“Ť998 Pitt St
Hours: ⏰Open daily 7:00am-10:00pm
7. Marion Square
An amazing place for a peaceful stroll. Marion Square is surrounded by impressive historical buildings.
Where: đź“Ť329 Meeting St
Hours: ⏰Always open
Featured image by @sporadicnomad.