James Island County Park | Charleston

James Island County Park is a sprawling, multifaceted outdoor recreation destination located just minutes from downtown Charleston, South Carolina. Encompassing over 640 acres, the park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions, and adventure-based amenities, making it a year-round favorite for both locals and tourists.

General Overview

Location: James Island, approximately 6 miles southwest of downtown Charleston

Size: 643 acres

Managed by: Charleston County Parks and Recreation Commission (CCPRC)

Open year-round: Daily from dawn to dusk, with extended access for certain facilities

This former farmland and tidal creek landscape has been transformed into one of the most versatile public parks in the Lowcountry.

Key Attractions and Facilities

1. Campground

Full-service campground with over 100 sites for tents and RVs

Includes amenities like:

Water, electric, and sewer hookups

Bathhouses, laundry facilities, fire pits

Popular for its quiet, wooded setting and proximity to Folly Beach and downtown Charleston

Also features climate-controlled cabins for year-round use

2. Splash Zone Waterpark

Seasonal water park open from late spring through summer

Features include:

A 500-foot lazy river

Two large water slides

Interactive play structures and a splash area for younger children

Designed to be fun and safe for all ages

3. Climbing Wall and Outdoor Adventure

One of the largest outdoor climbing walls in the Southeast (50 feet tall)

Offers:

Bouldering

Rappelling

Belay stations

Staffed by trained climbing instructors with equipment rentals available

Hosts youth climbing camps and team-building programs

4. Kayaking, Paddleboarding & Fishing

Access to tidal creeks for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing

Rental gear and boat launches available

Fishing and crabbing permitted at designated spots, with beautiful views of Salt Marsh Creek and Clark Sound

5. Trails and Natural Areas

Over 5 miles of paved and unpaved trails for walking, jogging, and biking

Winds through lush maritime forest, open meadows, salt marsh, and lakeside environments

Excellent birdwatching opportunities and peaceful nature observation

6. Dog Park (Off-Leash Area)

Large, fully fenced area where dogs can run freely

Includes dog-friendly access to a lake for swimming

Separate small dog area, shaded seating, and water stations

7. Picnic Areas and Shelters

Dozens of picnic tables and large covered shelters available for rental

Charcoal grills and restrooms nearby

Ideal for family reunions, birthday parties, and community events

Signature Events

Holiday Festival of Lights

Annual winter event (mid-November to December 31), one of the most famous in the Southeast

Features:

Over 2 million twinkling lights

Lighted displays throughout a 3-mile driving loop

Santa’s Village, marshmallow roasting, train rides, carousel, and holiday shops

Draws tens of thousands of visitors annually

Lowcountry Cajun Festival (Previously held here)

A celebration of Louisiana culture with:

Live zydeco music

Crawfish and Cajun cuisine

Games, rides, and family-friendly activities

Other Notable Features

Pedal boat and bike rentals

Educational nature programs and summer day camps

Meeting and event space in the Edisto Hall

Playground for children, with inclusive design elements

Saltwater and freshwater wetlands that support diverse ecosystems

Visitor Tips

Admission Fee: Small per-vehicle entrance fee; additional fees apply for water park, climbing wall, and event entry

Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities

Pet Policy: Dogs allowed on leash throughout the park and off-leash in designated dog park

Bugs: Bring insect repellent during warmer months, especially for marsh areas

Food: Bring your own picnic or enjoy seasonal concessions near high-traffic areas

Summary

James Island County Park is a model of multi-use recreational design. With its extensive natural habitats, high-quality amenities, and family-centered programming, it offers something for every type of visitor-from campers and paddlers to climbers, festival-goers, and nature lovers. Just minutes from the city yet surrounded by tidal creeks and forested trails, it provides a much-needed escape into nature and Lowcountry charm.