Charleston, South Carolina, features some of the most beautiful outdoor parks and trails in the Southeast, offering lush gardens, waterfront views, family-friendly activities, and scenic hikes across the Lowcountry. Here is a guide highlighting the best outdoor parks and trails in this vibrant city:
Top Outdoor Parks
Waterfront Park
Famous for its picturesque Pineapple Fountain, harbor views, and lush landscaping, this downtown park is ideal for strolls, picnics, and enjoying sunsets over the water.
Hampton Park
Among the largest on the peninsula, this 60-acre park is beloved for its gardens, walking trails, pond, and year-round floral displays. It’s perfect for jogging, family outings, and community events.
White Point Garden and The Battery
At the tip of the peninsula, this scenic green space features historic monuments, walking paths beneath ancient live oaks, and dramatic views of Charleston Harbor.
James Island County Park
This 643-acre park offers nature trails, picnic spots, water activities (kayaking and paddleboarding), an extensive playground, and a leash-free dog park.
West Ashley Park
One of the largest parks in Charleston, with numerous sports fields, playgrounds, and scenic water views perfect for fishing or a family picnic.
Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
This 600-acre historic site features miles of trails, a small zoo, and archaeological attractions tracing Charleston’s colonial origins.
Best Trails and Nature Walks
West Ashley Greenway
A popular 10-mile trail for walking, biking, and running that winds through marshes and neighborhoods, offering glimpses of the Lowcountry’s unique landscapes.
Awendaw Passage (Palmetto Trail)
This 7-mile trail just north of Charleston winds through Francis Marion National Forest, offering sweeping views of salt marshes and maritime forest.
Marsh View Trail (Mount Pleasant)
A short, easy trail ideal for families, it leads through maritime forest to a panoramic marsh vista, with a butterfly garden at the trailhead.
Gateway Walk (Downtown Charleston)
A hidden gem, this self-guided walk links churchyards and gardens, offering a quiet escape in the city’s historic core.
Cypress Gardens
While a short drive from the city, these gardens feature dog-friendly walking trails and the option for a guided or self-paddled boat ride through tranquil swamps.
Charleston’s outdoor spaces offer a mix of history, community, and scenic beauty, making them treasures for both residents and visitors seeking to reconnect with nature.
SOURCES
[1](https://www.holidify.com/collections/parks-in-charleston)
[2](https://centerforimprovingrelationships.com/top-outdoor-activities-and-parks-in-charleston-sc/)
[3](https://www.trolleytours.com/charleston/best-parks-to-visit)
[4](https://jillianeversole.com/best-parks-in-charleston-sc/)
[5](https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/charlestons-natural-beauty-offers-plenty-of-ways-to-enjoy-the-outdoors)
