Hunting Island is a 5,000 acre secluded barrier island of semitropical beauty located near history Beaufort, SC. As the name implies, the island was once used for hunting deer, raccoon, waterfowl and other small game.

Developed into a state park by the Civilian Conservation Corps, the island is now a preserve for its abundant wildlife. Visitors may enjoy more than four miles of beach, a maritime forest, and an extensive saltwater marsh. The most notable attraction is the 19th-century lighthouse, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The wildlife includes loggerhead turtles, deer, alligators, raccoons, diamondback rattlesnakes, and hundreds of species of birds. Of the birds, many are impressed by the abundance of herons and egrets. The lagoon, created by sand dredging in 1968 has become a natural wonderland and home to such species as seahorses and barracuda.

Visitor Information

• Park Accommodations: Camping and Cabins
• Park Hours: M-Su 6am-6pm (extended to 9pm during Daylight Savings Time)
• Office Hours: M-Fri 9am-5pm Sat&Sun 11am-5pm
• Admissions: $3/adult; $2.50 SC seniors; $1.50/ child age 6-15
• General Directions: 16 miles east of Beaufort on US 21
• Driving Directions: Hunting Island is 16 miles east of Beaufort on Hwy. 21. or 42 mi. E. of I-95 on Hwy 21
• Tour and Programs Information: Barrier Island educational programs and tours of the historic lighthouse complex are held March through November.
• Pets: Pets are not allowed in the cabins or the cabin areas. Pets are allowed in most other outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet.

Contact Information

2555 Sea Island PKWY
Hunting Island,SC 29920
Phone: (843) 838-2011
Fax: (843) 838-4263