Add Givhans Ferry State Park to your list of outdoor adventures in the South Carolina Lowcountry! This beautiful riverside park near Ridgeville, SC, is packed with kid-friendly outdoor fun — from fishing and hiking to tubing and picnicking.
If your family loves being outside, splashing in rivers, and exploring trails, Givhans Ferry makes for a great day trip or weekend getaway!
What Can Families Do at Givhans Ferry State Park?
Here’s a breakdown of all the ways your family can enjoy time together at this scenic state park.
Explore the River Bluff Nature Trail
The 1.5-mile River Bluff Nature Trail is perfect for families. It’s a short loop with scenic overlooks, and kids will love spotting birds, trees, and maybe even a turtle or two!
- Easy terrain for younger kids
- Great for geocaching and birdwatching
- Shaded areas and scenic river views
Go Fishing (No Gear? No Problem!)
Did you know you can borrow fishing gear for free? Givhans Ferry is part of South Carolina’s Tackle Loaner Program, so you can stop by the park office to pick up rods and reels for the day.
With a valid SC fishing license, you can fish for:
- Catfish
- Bass
- Flathead
Hit the Water from the Kayak Launch
Right near the park’s bluff is a kayak launch area with a shallow riverfront that’s a local favorite during hot summer months. Families use it for:
- Wading and cooling off
- Launching personal kayaks or tubes
- Picnicking by the water
👙 No lifeguards, so swim at your own risk — but the beach area is calm and perfect for little splashers.
Camp or Stay Overnight
Want to turn your visit into a weekend? Givhans Ferry offers:
- 4 cozy cabins (built by the Civilian Conservation Corps)
- 25 full-service campsites (RV and tent friendly)
- Clean restrooms and hot showers
The cabins sit up on the bluff with beautiful views, and the campsites are shaded and well-maintained — perfect for beginner campers or seasoned pros.
Have a Picnic with a River View
There are two picnic shelters at Givhans Ferry, plus plenty of open grassy spots for a blanket picnic. Bring a cooler, spread out some snacks, and let the kids run around while you relax under the trees.
- Shelters are available to reserve for birthday parties or reunions
- Grills available on-site
- Easy parking near the picnic areas
Wildlife Around the Park
Keep your eyes peeled — this park is home to lots of local wildlife! Kids might spot:
- Birds like kingfishers or blue herons
- Small reptiles along the trail
- Fish swimming near the kayak launch
Need-to-Know Info for Visiting
Givhans Ferry State Park
746 Givhans Ferry Road, Ridgeville, SC 29472
843.873.0692
Admission
- $6 adults
- $3.75 SC seniors
- $3 children ages 6–15
- Free for kids 5 and under
🕒 Open daily | Gates close at sunset
Have you visited Givhans Ferry with your family?
Tell us your favorite part in the comments, or tag us in your park photos!