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Enjoy the South Carolina coastline as we explore the natural wonders of the Palmetto State’s beach parks. You’ll discover oceanside adventures, an amazing coastal state parks getaway deal and an 1870s lighthouse.

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SC State Beach Parks

Camp by the ocean, climb an 1870s lighthouse, enjoy scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean, play in the waves, visit the past, relax on the sand, explore the marshland. Explore the coastline in one of the Palmetto State’s four magnificent oceanside parks.

Check It Out

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Coastal Explorations

When land meets ocean, magic thrives. Take a coastal exploration with State Parks Director Phil Gaines and discover out-of-the ordinary experiences and the amazing natural wonders you’ll find in South Carolina’s coastal parks.

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Jo Anna White, Lake Hartwell Park Manager

Ranger Jo Anna White started her state parks career 19 years ago at Huntington Beach State Park, just after Hurricane Hugo wreaked havoc in the state. From this “baptism by fire” to her present day role as Lake Hartwell’s Park Manager, Ranger White most appreciates the camaraderie and opportunities to serve that the state park way of life offers.

Meet Ranger White

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Preserving Atalaya, an Unusual Home

The “Huntington Squeeze” is not really a new SC dance craze. It’s just one of the many unusual features of Atalaya, the former beachside home designed by philanthropist Archer Huntington and his wife, renowned 20th-century sculptor Anna Hyatt Huntington. Located in Huntington Beach State Park, the unique home is being lovingly preserved and restored.

Find Out More

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Historic Coastal Tour

The rest of 2008 is looking great for planning a family adventure at Givhans Ferry State Park. Book a four-night cabin stay at the park now through December 31, 2008 and enjoy free entry for four to these outstanding Charleston area attractions:

  • Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site
  • Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
  • Isaac Hayne Burial Site
  • Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
  • Huntington Beach State Park & Atalaya

Find Out More

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Hunting Island State Park ‘Lighthouse Life’

On the semi-tropical barrier island that is South Carolina’s single most popular state park, you will discover fascinating wildlife, five miles of beach, thousands of acres of marsh, tidal creeks and maritime forest plus the 170–foot–high Hunting Island Lighthouse.

Scale its heights for breathtaking views and a journey into the past.

Take a Tour

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Women in the Outdoors Weekend
Friday, Sept. 5 - Sunday, Sept. 7

Sharpen your outdoor sportswoman skills at Hickory Knob State Resort Park’s Women in the Outdoors Weekend. Attendees can select to take up to four classes during the weekend including Archery, Fishing, GPS Class, Hand Gun Safety, Interpretive Hikes, Kayaking, Outdoor Cooking, Outdoor Crafts, Skeet Shooting and Talking Turkey.

Gobble up some time from your busy schedule to come out and play!

Make Plans Now

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Pamela Cowin’s ‘Migrating Monarch’

Congratulations to our winning June Photographers in the State Parks’ 75th Anniversary photo challenge!

  • ProfessionalMushrooms and Poison Ivy
    Photographer: Ken DeCamp
  • AmateurMigrating Monarch
    Photographer: Pamela Cowin
  • PRT EmployeeOsprey with Fish
    Photographer: Nathan Maiwald
  • StudentRiding in Buggy
    Photographer: Jarrett Mason

View All June Selections

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Campground Cookoff
September 19 -21

Celebrity judges will be on hand to pick the winners of the very first South Carolina Campground Cookoff! Best appetizer, entrée and dessert must be prepared over a campfire of charcoal or wood with all food prepared from scratch.

Join the Fun!

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SC Coastal Trivia

How well do you know the many wonders of the Palmetto State coast? After you play SC Coastal Trivia, you can entertain and amaze friends and family with fun SC oceanside State Park facts.

Play the Game

SC Department of Parks,
Recreation & Tourism

1205 Pendleton St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Comeoutandplay.net