National Parks in South Carolina
8 NPS units in South Carolina — complete visitor guides with fees, hours, hiking, camping, and seasonal tips.
Visiting National Parks in South Carolina
South Carolina is home to 8 units managed by the National Park Service, ranging from 1 full national parks to historic sites, monuments, and recreation areas. Whether you're planning a weekend road trip or a multi-week adventure, South Carolina's national parks offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the United States.
Before your visit, make sure to check current entrance fees, operating hours, and any active alerts — all updated daily on each park's page. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all NPS units and is highly recommended if you plan to visit multiple parks in South Carolina.
National Parks in South Carolina
Other NPS Units in South Carolina
Charles Pinckney
National Historic Site
Charles Pinckney was a principal author and signer of the United States…
Cowpens
National Battlefield
A pasturing area at the time of the battle, this Revolutionary War…
Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie
National Historical Park
Two forts stand at the entrance of Charleston Harbor. Patriots inside a…
Kings Mountain
National Military Park
Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The…
Ninety Six
National Historic Site
Settlers struggled against the harsh backcountry to survive. Cherokee Indians hunted and…
Overmountain Victory
National Historic Trail
Stretching 330-miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the…
Reconstruction Era
National Historical Park
The Reconstruction era,1861-1900 the historic period in which the United States grappled…
Planning Your South Carolina National Park Trip
- →Best time to visit: Shoulder seasons (May and September) offer the best combination of good weather, open facilities, and manageable crowds across South Carolina's parks.
- →America the Beautiful Pass: At $80/year, this annual pass covers entrance to all 8+ NPS units in South Carolina and all other NPS units nationwide.
- →Book early: Lodging and campsite reservations at popular parks fill up months in advance. Plan and book as early as possible, especially for summer visits.
- →Check alerts: Road closures, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures can affect your plans. Check each park's page for current alerts before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many national parks are in South Carolina?
South Carolina has 1 designated national parks and 8 total NPS-managed units, including monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites.
What is the best national park to visit in South Carolina?
The best park depends on your interests. Congaree is one of the most popular options. Browse the parks above to find the one that matches your travel style.
Do I need a pass to visit national parks in South Carolina?
Most NPS units in South Carolina charge an entrance fee. The America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) covers entrance to all of them and is great value if you plan to visit more than 2-3 parks.
About the Author
James R. Mitchell
Founder & Lead Writer — National Park Data
James has visited all 63 designated US national parks and has been writing about outdoor travel for over 12 years. He spent 8 years as a wilderness guide in the Rocky Mountains before founding National Park Data to help visitors plan better, safer, and more enjoyable park trips.