As the warm weather begins to creep in, families everywhere are starting to finalize their summer vacation plans. Topping the list of must visit destinations once again is Hilton Head Island! If you’ve ever been, you understand the draw of our gorgeous beaches and our exceptional coastal community. And if you’ve never had the pleasure, this is your sign to pay us a visit!
When you’re looking for the ideal family-friendly activities to enjoy during your stay, visiting state parks near Hilton Head should be at the top of your list. With everything from nature and wildlife preserves to expansive unspoiled areas, our stretch of coastline offers something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll cover top state parks and preserves, highlight their amenities, answer some FAQs, and give you the scoop on booking a Hilton Head vacation rental near all the fun.
Read More: 10 Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Hilton Head
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Preserves and State Parks Near Hilton Head
Whether you want to hike nature trails, learn about coastal conservation, or just see a different side of the coastline, nature preserves, and state parks near Hilton Head have you covered. Here are a few of our favorite places to check out.
Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge
This Hilton Head reserve is an outdoorsman’s dream. With dedication to preserving a slice of the Lowcountry, the Pinckney Island Wildlife Refuge works to maintain the natural habitat and ecosystems for native animals for generations to come.
- Location: The vehicle entrance is located on U.S. 278 between two bridges that connect Hilton Head Island to the mainland. From I-95: Take SC Exit 8 east towards Hilton Head Island, approximately 16 miles to the entrance gate on the left.
- Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Hiking, Biking, Saltwater Fishing, White-Tailed Deer Hunting (when in season), Wildlife Observation Areas. Important Note: there are no bathrooms or water facilities here.
- Pets Allowed: No, only service animals are allowed.
Sea Pines Forest Preserve
Sea Pines Forest Preserve has over 600 acres of natural beauty to explore during your Hilton Head vacation. Since 1970, it has provided protected lands for native wildlife and given nature lovers open space to roam. Keep a lookout for alligators, a 4,000-year-old native shell ring, blooming wildflowers, and migrating birds.
- Location: 175 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928
- Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Cost: $9/day visitor’s fee for outside guests
- Amenities: Guided Boat Tours, Horseback Rides, Fishing Expeditions, Wagon Tours, Nature Trails, Wetland Boardwalks, Bridges, Fishing Docks, and Picnic Areas.
- Pets Allowed: Yes, on a leash.
Hunting Island State Park
With 5 miles of beach and 5,000 acres of Lowcountry landscape, Hunting Island is one of the most beloved state parks near Hilton Head. Located just over an hour from town, this quick road trip is a great way to spend a day when you want to enjoy some peaceful fishing or nature spotting. Their welcome center has many interactive displays, and park workers frequently offer educational programming. Bring your cameras and binoculars and catch a glimpse of protected shorebirds in their natural habitat.
- Location: 2555 Sea Island Parkway Hunting Island, SC 29920
- Hours: 6 AM - 6 PM, daily (extended to 9 PM during Daylight Saving Time) | Nature Center Hours: 9 AM to 4 PM, daily
- Cost: $8 for adults | $5 for SC seniors | $4 for children ages 6-15 | Free for children 5 and younger
- Amenities: Campsites, Picnic Areas, Nature Center, Open Beaches, Hiking Trails, and a Fishing Pier.
- Pets Allowed: Yes, if on a leash. Pay attention to posted signage for specific no-pet zones, such as the Hunting Island Lighthouse and the tip of North Beach.
Edisto Beach State Park
At just under two hours away from Hilton Head, Edisto Beach State Park is a great spot to visit when you want to incorporate some guided excursions into your day. Partnering with Plot Twist Characters, the park will offer dolphin and sunset cruises, as well as various eco-tours in the 2025 summer season. Additionally, you can see a great collection of fossils as well as live animals at the learning center, go for a bike ride through maritime forests, or swim in the Atlantic Ocean! Just be sure to use the buddy system, as there are no lifeguards on duty here.
- Location: 8377 State Cabin Rd, Edisto Island, SC 29438
- Hours: 7 AM - 6 PM daily (extended to 8 PM during Daylight Savings Time)
- Cost: $8 for adults | $5 for SC seniors | $4 for children ages 6-15 | Free for children 5 and younger
- Amenities: Boat Tours, Environmental Learning Center, Oceanfront Landscape, Cabins, Hiking Trails, ADA Accessible Trails, Boat Ramp, Picnic Area, Gift Shop, Geocaching.
- Pets Allowed: Pets are not allowed in cabin areas, but leashed dogs are allowed in most other outdoor areas of the park.
Skidaway Island State Park
This popular state park near Hilton Head is a great addition to a day trip to Savannah, Georgia. Roughly an hour and a half from Hilton Head, you’ll find miles of nature trails, salt marshes, and unique wildlife. Explore the boardwalk and observation tower and see how many creatures you can spot!
- Location: 52 Diamond Causeway Savannah, GA 31411
- Hours: 7 AM - 6 PM
- Cost: $5 per vehicle
- Amenities: RV Sites, Picnic Areas, Cabins with AC, WiFi, Outdoor Fitness Equipment, Visitor Center, Bike Rentals ($6 per hour), Enchroma Color Blindness Glasses, Geochaching, Playgrounds
- Pets Allowed: Leashed, yes.
Audobon Newhall Preserve
Owned and operated by the Hilton Head Audubon non-profit organization, this 50-acre nature preserve is a nearby treasure you won’t want to miss. A number of trails wind through the property and give you easy viewing opportunities for native flora and the chance to see more than 140 bird species! Be sure to grab a trail guide before heading out – it’s full of info and helpful tips for incorporating native plants into your own yards and gardens when you return home. Pro Tip – be sure to enter the address exactly as seen below. Otherwise, you may be routed through Sea Pines where you’ll have to pay a fee, and there’s no access to the preserve.
- Location: 55 Palmetto Bay Road on the south end of Hilton Head Island
- Hours: Sunrise to Sunset
- Cost: Free
- Amenities: Free Guided Nature Tours on Tuesday and Friday, Boardwalk, Observation Deck, Benches, Trails.
- Pets Allowed: Yes, leashed.
FAQs About State Parks Near Hilton Head
Q. What is the Most Popular State Park in South Carolina?
A. Hunting Island State Park, with more than one million annual visitors, is the most popular state park in South Carolina. Climb to the top of the historic lighthouse, look for local wildlife, comb the beaches, and enjoy a day in nature when you visit.
Q. What is the Oldest State Park in South Carolina?
A. Cheraw State Park, located around four hours away from Hilton Head, is the oldest state park in South Carolina. While too far to make our list of parks near our beach community, it offers free admission, an 18-hole golf course, cabins, campsites, and great spots for kayaking or paddleboarding.
Q. Can you take shells from Edisto Beach State Park?
A. Yes! Hunting for unique shells is a popular pastime at the park. However, if you plan to visit Botany Bay Plantation while you’re here, it’s important to remember the shells, driftwood, and all other natural resources are protected, and it is prohibited to remove anything from that specific area.
Q. Do I need a fishing license to fish in South Carolina state parks?
A. Yes. Before your visit, head to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to secure your fishing license so you’re ready to go!
Book a Vacation Home Near Hilton Head State Parks
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As you plan your Hilton Head vacation, we hope you take time to incorporate some of these state parks and preserves into your itinerary. Not only will they introduce you to more of the stunning South Carolina landscape, but they’ll also open your eyes to the wonder of the Lowcountry in ways more populated areas simply can’t.
As you search for a vacation rental that will put you near all the top things to do in Hilton Head, be sure to check Island Getaway Rentals inventory! With homes ranging in size and offerings, we have something to suit every group’s needs. Choose from oceanfront rentals, pet-friendly properties, and Hilton Head homes with private pools, or browse the full list of vacation rentals.
When you find the one that’s right for you, be sure to book directly on this website for the best prices and service in the area! We can’t wait to welcome you and your family on your next Island Getaway!