HUNTING ISLAND STATE PARK
This popular state park, located near historic Beaufort, is a 5,000-acre secluded barrier island of semitropical beauty.
As the name implies, the island was once used for hunting deer, raccoon, waterfowl and other small game.
As a state park, the island serves as a preserve for its abundant wildlife. With more than four miles of beach, a maritime forest and extensive saltwater marsh, the island is also a retreat for people who love a natural coastal environment.
An historic 19th-century lighthouse is Hunting Island?s most popular landmark, where guests can climb to the top for a spectacular view of the coastline. The lighthouse and its complex are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
Bridle Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
1. Hunting Island State Park offers a beautiful beach for swimming, stretching over five miles.
2. The park's lagoon also provides an alternative spot to swim and explore nature.
3. Lifeguards are on duty during peak season ensuring safe swimming conditions at the beach area.
4. Swimming is allowed from sunrise until sunset in designated areas only due to safety reasons.
5. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling as well along with regular swims near the shorelines of this state park.
Visitors can enjoy saltwater fishing from the surf, pier or lagoon. Species include red drum, flounder and spotted sea trout.
Fishing licenses are required for anyone over 16 years old.
The park's Nature Center offers rental equipment including rods and reels.
Crabbing is also popular in the area with blue crabs being a common catch.
Freshwater ponds within the park provide opportunities to fish for largemouth bass and catfish.
Hunting Island State Park is located near Beaufort, Hilton Head Island
Picnic Area and Shelters: A picnic shelter may be reserved for $25-32/day.
If the shelter is not reserved, guests may use it on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge.
To make a picnic shelter reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK.
Bicycling is a popular activity, with miles of trails available. However, caution should be taken due to uneven terrain.
The park's paths are not paved and can become muddy after rain; cyclists need to stay alert for these conditions.
There isn't any bike rental service within the area so remember to bring your own bicycle if you plan on cycling here.
Cyclists must also respect wildlife by keeping their distance and never feeding animals they encounter during their ride.
Riding at night is discouraged as there aren't adequate lighting facilities along most routes which could lead to potential accidents or mishaps.
Please note that helmets are highly recommended while biking in this location for safety reasons.
2005-07-22 LAGOON KAYAKING Become "one with the water"?. Or get as close as you can during our kayaking adventures! Carried on the whim of a tide, we will explore the Hunting Island lagoon, search for seashells on a sandbar, or observe various wildlife?..offerings vary weekly. Life jackets, equipment and instruction are provided by the Kayak Farm. No experience is required; however the program is limited to paddlers age 12 and older. An adult must accompany ages 12-17. Bring drinking water and sunscreen. Wear clothes and shoes that can get wet.
The park offers a diverse bird population, with over 180 species recorded. Birdwatchers can spot ospreys, pelicans and bald eagles among others. The lagoon area is particularly popular for spotting waterfowl and wading birds. There's also the option of joining guided bird walks during certain seasons.