GIVHANS FERRY STATE PARK
By land or by water, Givhans Ferry State Park has been a favored destination since the Civilian Conservation Corps built it among the limestone bluffs along the Edisto River in the 1930s.
The Edisto is the longest free-flowing blackwater river on the continent, and Givhans Ferry State Park is on the 56-mile stretch known as the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail. It?s at the end of a popular 21-mile paddle from Colleton State Park upstream.
Overland travelers used a ferry at the site to go to and from Charleston and the inland in the area?s early days, while the 988-acre park ? with its cabins, camping, fishing, scenic beauty and diverse wildlife ? attracts local residents and visitors from far afield year round to this day.
The park?s riverbanks are protected as a Heritage Trust site because of several species of rare plants that live there. The park also is in the National Heritage corridor that extends more than 240 miles through the state.
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the
SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
Water/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
The rental meeting building is ideal for meeting and special occasions.
The facility which can accommodate up to 100 people is handicap accessible and includes a kitchen, a large porch overlooking the Edisto River and rents for $140-175/day.
To make a meeting facility reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK.
1. Givhans Ferry State Park offers a sandy beach along the Edisto River for swimming.
2. The park's river is ideal for casual swimmers and families with children.
3. Lifeguards are not on duty, so visitors swim at their own risk.
4. Swimming areas can be accessed during regular park hours from dawn to dusk.
5. Canoeing or kayaking in the river also provides opportunities to take refreshing dips while exploring nature trails nearby.
Enjoy fishing along the Edisto River, known for its abundance of catfish. Other species include bass and bream. You can fish from a boat or riverside bank.
Givhans Ferry State Park is located near Charleston, Ladson and North Charleston
Givhans Ferry State Park offers picnic tables and shelters, perfect for outdoor meals. Grills are also available on-site.
In the heart of South Carolina, a park offers several bicycling options. However, caution is advised due to varying terrains.
The 1.5-mile River Bluff Nature Trail caters for casual cyclists and families but requires careful navigation around walkers.
For more experienced riders seeking challenges, there's an off-road bike trail that winds through dense woodland areas; be prepared for rough patches.
Remember always wear helmets when biking as safety should never be compromised even on less challenging trails or roads within this location.
Please note: cycling after dark isn't permitted in order to prevent accidents and protect local wildlife habitats from disturbance at night time hours.
Lastly, ensure you respect all signage regarding restricted access areas - these are put in place both for your own protection and preservation of natural resources found here.
The park offers birdwatching opportunities with diverse species like woodpeckers, warblers and wading birds. Bird checklists are available for enthusiasts.
General Directions: Off SC 61, 16 miles west of Summerville.
Driving Directions: From I-95: Canadys exit. Turn left and drive 17 mi. Turn left onto Givhans Ferry Rd. From I-26 take exit 187 to Hwy. 27. Follow Hwy. 27 to Hwy. 61. Look for park signs. Park is 3 mi. on the right