Palmetto Islands County Park
A 943-acre natural escape in Mount Pleasant with trails, a water park, and a 50-foot observation tower offering stunning marsh views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer bugs
Palmetto Islands County Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer bugs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 943-acre natural escape in Mount Pleasant with trails, a water park, and a 50-foot observation tower offering stunning marsh views.
"It's a great spot for a walk in the outdoors, a true escape with paved paths and trail-like paths."
🎯 Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget insect repellent, especially for marsh trails.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
$2 per person, kids under 2 are free. Gold Pass holders get in free!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
50-Foot Observation Tower
Overlooking marshlands
Ascend for breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding marsh and Charleston skyline. A must-see!
Nature Island Boardwalk
Nature Island
Wander through serene marshland on a scenic boardwalk, spotting wildlife and enjoying peaceful solitude.
Splash Island Waterpark
Near playground
A seasonal delight for kids, offering a toddler splash pad and a refreshing swimming pool perfect for hot days.
Extensive Trail System
Throughout the park
Explore miles of paved paths and unpaved trails, ideal for walking, biking, and discovering the park's natural beauty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and the Crowds
Bug Spray is Your Best Friend
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget insect repellent, especially for marsh trails.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
$2 per person, kids under 2 are free. Gold Pass holders get in free!
📸 Great for Wildlife Photos
Bring your camera for birdwatching and spotting marsh crabs.
🚲 Bike & Kayak Rentals
Explore the park's waterways and trails with convenient rental options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget insect repellent, especially for marsh trails.
💰 Affordable Entry Fee
$2 per person, kids under 2 are free. Gold Pass holders get in free!
📸 Great for Wildlife Photos
Bring your camera for birdwatching and spotting marsh crabs.
🚲 Bike & Kayak Rentals
Explore the park's waterways and trails with convenient rental options.
🌳 Nature Island Serenity
Enjoy the quiet, secluded feel of the nature trails.
☀️ Splash Island Fun
Perfect for families with young children on hot days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palmetto Islands County Park for its natural beauty, affordability, and family-friendly amenities like the observation tower and water park. It's seen as a great local escape for outdoor activities, though some note the potential for bugs and crowds during peak summer times.
"First time going here with 3 kids. They loved the observation tower. They also really liked the storybook walk it was short enough and had signs with little poems on them. Plus seeing all the crabs and lizards running around was really cool. It was super hot so we decided to go to the pool it was so nice for younger kids. The toddler splash pad type pool was super close to the swimming pool I could stand there with my toddler and still clearly see my older kids. The swimming pool didn't go deeper then 3 1/2 feet deep I think. It was really fun and decently priced."
Sarah Rogers
"Lovely place to get 'lost' in South Carolina. They have unpaved trails as well as boardwalks. It was quiet in early February. A good amount of wildlife or at least evidence of it. Bring a good lens and camera to get bird photos.
I imagine it's crazy busy during the summer, so time your visit right."
Kay
"BRING BUG SPRAY!!!
Great spot for a walk in the outdoors. It’s nice to have a place IN MT PLEASANT that truly feels like an escape. There are paved paths and more trail-like paths.
The girls had a great time on the playground and the staff was helpful when we were lost.
Love the county parks.
$2 per entry unless a child is under 2 (free)
Or free entry with the Parks Gold Pass
Cannot emphasize bug spray enough 🦟"
SOPHIE ANDERSON
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is located at 444 Needlerush Parkway, Mount Pleasant, SC 29464. It's easily accessible by car and offers ample parking.
Public transportation options to the park are limited. Driving is the most convenient way to reach Palmetto Islands County Park.
From Charleston, take US-17 N towards Mount Pleasant. Take the exit for SC-703 E/Long Point Road and follow signs for Palmetto Islands County Park.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available throughout the park, including near the main facilities and trailheads.
While there are bike paths within the park, direct bike access from outside the park might depend on your starting point. It's best to drive and utilize the internal bike trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entry fee is typically $2 per person. Children under 2 years old are free. Holders of the Charleston County Parks Gold Pass receive free admission.
Children under 2 are free, and the Charleston County Parks Gold Pass offers unlimited access to all county parks.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Charleston County Parks website for the most up-to-date operating hours before your visit.
For general park entry, advance booking is usually not required. However, if you plan to rent equipment or reserve picnic shelters, it's advisable to book ahead, especially during peak season.
Splash Island Waterpark typically has a separate admission fee or is included with specific park passes. Check the Charleston County Parks website for current pricing and inclusions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking and biking on trails, explore the observation tower, visit Splash Island waterpark (seasonal), rent kayaks and pedal boats, fish, crab, and let kids play on the playground.
Absolutely! The marshy environment is a haven for various bird species. Bring binoculars and a good camera lens for optimal viewing.
Yes, there are playgrounds available for children to enjoy.
Yes, bike rentals and kayak/paddleboat rentals are available, allowing you to explore the park's extensive trail system and waterways.
You can often spot various birds, marsh crabs skittering along the boardwalks, and sometimes even deer.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants within the park. However, there are picnic pavilions available for rent, and you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Yes, Palmetto Islands County Park has numerous picnic sites and pavilions that can be reserved for gatherings. It's a great spot for a family picnic.
Vending machines may be available for snacks and drinks, but it's best to bring your own provisions, especially if you plan to spend a full day.
Mount Pleasant offers a wide variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining, just a short drive from the park.
Check the park's specific rules regarding personal grills. Some picnic areas may have designated grilling spots, while others may not permit them.
📸 📸 Photography
The 50-foot observation tower offers panoramic views, the boardwalks provide unique marshland perspectives, and the trails are great for capturing nature and wildlife.
While not as famous as the Mount Pleasant Waterfront Park for sunsets, the western-facing marsh views can offer beautiful golden hour light. +1
You can photograph various bird species, small reptiles, and the abundant marsh crabs that inhabit the area.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best natural light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a softer glow.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as while there are picnic areas, food options are limited. Remember that bug spray is crucial, especially for the nature trails. The park's affordability and variety of activities make it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly family day out.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers
+1Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the abundant birdlife and other natural wonders. The park's quiet atmosphere, especially during off-peak hours, makes it ideal for peaceful hikes and appreciating the Lowcountry landscape. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring insect repellent.
📸 Photographers
+1Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for capturing the best light. The park is also a prime location for wildlife photography, with opportunities to photograph various bird species and the ubiquitous marsh crabs. Consider bringing a zoom lens for capturing distant birds.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails and Boardwalks
Many visitors rave about the feeling of seclusion and the opportunity to 'get lost' in nature, even though the park is conveniently located within Mount Pleasant. The Nature Island boardwalk is frequently mentioned for its peaceful ambiance and the chance to encounter deer and various bird species. Remember to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on varied terrain, and as many reviews emphasize, bug spray is non-negotiable to ensure a comfortable experience, especially during warmer months.
Whether you're looking for a short, scenic walk or a longer trek, the park's trail system offers something for everyone. The storybook walk is a charming addition for families, featuring signs with poems that add an educational and engaging element to the stroll.
Splash Island: A Summer Oasis
The layout of Splash Island is particularly praised by parents, as the proximity of the toddler area to the main pool allows for easy supervision of multiple children. The park's affordability also makes it an attractive option for a family outing. While it can get busy, especially on weekends, visiting during weekdays or earlier in the day can provide a more relaxed experience.
It's important to note that Splash Island operates seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Always check the Charleston County Parks website for exact operating dates and hours, as well as admission fees, which are separate from general park entry.
Wildlife and Photography Opportunities
Beyond the avian life, the park is known for its abundant marsh crabs that skitter across the boardwalks and sandy areas. While sometimes described as 'unsettling' due to their sheer numbers, they are a fascinating sight and a testament to the vibrant ecosystem. Keep an eye out for other small creatures and evidence of larger mammals like deer, particularly in the quieter, more natural sections of the park.
The 50-foot observation tower is not only a great spot for panoramic views but also an excellent elevated platform for photography, offering a different perspective of the marsh and surrounding landscape. The golden hours of early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting conditions for capturing the park's natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit