Inside: A curated list of excellent parks and playgrounds in Charleston, SC, written by local parents.
If you’re looking for a fun, outdoor escape with the kids, here are the best playgrounds in Charleston, SC! These parks are free to visit (or very low-cost), encourage active play, and are perfect for picnic dates, meetups, or everyday adventures. Each one was chosen for its unique play features, scenic surroundings, and parent-approved perks. Get ready for some fabulous fun outdoors with the kids.
1. James Island County Park
871 Riverland Drive, Charleston, SC
James Island County Park continues to top Charlestonâs favorite park lists for good reason. The spacious playground, climbing wall, and splash pad in the warmer months make it a hit with families.
Kids can explore three separate play areas, each suited to a different age group. Whether your toddler wants to toddle or your tween wants to climb, thereâs space for everyone. The splash pad is conveniently located near the play area, making it easy to do both on hot days.
Parents appreciate the walking trails, pedal boat rentals, shady picnic areas, and even the option to rent cabins, tents, or campsites for a weekend getaway.
A few things to keep in mind!
- James Island County Park can get crowded, especially in the summer, and the small parking lot fills up quickly.
- The size of the park makes it a bit tough to spot your child from a distance, so bring a buddy if you have multiple little ones!
đ Parent Tip: There is a small entrance fee per car, but itâs well worth it. Bathrooms are clean and plentiful, and the variety of attractions makes this park an all-day destination.
2. Hampton Park
30 Mary Murray Drive, Charleston, SC
Located in the historic heart of the city, Hampton Park offers a large, shaded playground surrounded by beautiful gardens and duck ponds. The soft play surface and well-maintained equipment make this a safe, relaxing spot for little ones to run, climb, and play.
The stroller-friendly loop path is perfect for babies and toddlers, and there are plenty of shady lawns and benches for parents to kick back.
đ Parent Tip: Bring a blanketâthis is one of the most scenic spots in town for a family picnic.
3. Mount Pleasant Memorial Waterfront Park
99 Harry M. Hallman Jr Boulevard, Mt Pleasant, SC
One of the most iconic playgrounds in the Lowcountry, this pirate-ship-themed park lies beneath the Ravenel Bridge and offers three separate play zones for all ages. The design inspires imaginative play with nets, towers, and slides, all while you enjoy stunning water views.
The pier is a hotspot for fishing and dolphin-watching, and the park is currently expanding! Coming soon:
- Expanded parking (already decent)
- Splash pad
- Basketball and pickleball courts
- Dog park with small/large dog areas
- Outdoor fitness area
Despite the upcoming construction, this park is already a parent favorite thanks to its excellent visibility and smart layout.
đ Parent Tip: The shaded picnic tables and nearby bathrooms make it easy to spend a whole morning or afternoon here. Bonus if you’re planning a visit to nearby Patriots Point!
Check out more free and cheap things to do in Mount Pleasant, SC!
4. Ackerman Park
55 Sycamore Avenue, Charleston, SC
Ackerman Park is a hidden gem in West Ashley, featuring modern climbing equipment, slides, and spinning structures for a range of ages. There’s a large grassy field nearby for open play or tossing a ball, and the adjacent dog park makes it easy to bring your furry friends along.
đ Parent Tip: The park is cozy and intimate, but there’s limited shade, so come prepared with water and sunscreen. Pack snacks!
5. West Ashley Park
3601 Mary Ader Ave, Charleston, SC
As one of Charleston’s largest municipal parks, West Ashley Park offers a sprawling playground, complete with climbing webs, tunnels, and a toddler-friendly area. Itâs a great place for multi-age families, especially when paired with the ball fields, fishing dock, and miles of walking trails.
đ Parent Tip: There’s a shallow creek near the trailsâdonât be surprised if your kiddo ends up splashing around! Bring a towel and spare clothes just in case.
6. SkyZone Adventure Playground at North Charleston Riverfront Park
1001 Everglades Ave, North Charleston, SC
With a colorful, inclusive design, this newer playground at Riverfront Park includes spin seats, musical elements, climbing towers, and rampsâmaking it accessible and fun for all kids.
Located next to the Cooper River and an amphitheater, this spot is great for making a day of it, especially during seasonal events or concerts.
đ Parent Tip: Get there early for shade. The rubberized surface is stroller-friendly and gentle on little knees.
7. Etiwan Park on Daniel Island
453 Seven Farms Drive, Daniel Island, SC
This well-loved Daniel Island park features a classic playground with slides, swings, and climbing bars in a safe, visible layout. Itâs surrounded by a large open fieldâperfect for soccer or a game of tag.
Added perks include:
- Bathrooms on site
- Sand volleyball courts
- Plentiful street parking around the circle
- Excellent visibility of children at all times
đ Parent Tip: The coffee shops nearby make this an ideal park for a quick play session followed by a treat!
Want to know more about Daniel Island?
Check out our Day Riding the Trails at Daniel Island.
8. Bees Landing Recreation Center
1580 Ashley Gardens Boulevard, Charleston, SC
Though not brand-new, Bees Landing Recreation Center has a large inclusive playground, a toddler zone, and plenty of space to run. However, be cautious: some parents report exposed pipes or tripping hazards, so keep a close eye on young explorers.
That said, it offers great extras:
- Restrooms and picnic tables
- Baseball and large sports fields
- Very clear visibility for watching your child
- Ample parking in the rec center lot
đ Parent Tip: Itâs breezy thanks to the nearby marsh and treesâperfect for hot summer days, but bring a first aid kit just in case.
Bonus: Park Circle Playground
4800 Park Circle, North Charleston, SC
Park Circle Playground in North Charleston is a 55,000 square foot play space where every childâregardless of abilityâcan play, climb, swing, and explore. Thereâs a ninja course, zip lines, slides, a fully fenced-in layout, and shaded seating for parents (who are encouraged to join in too!).
Check out our visit to Park Circle Playground.
We couldnât even fit the whole playground in a single photoâitâs that big! đŽ
âď¸ Free to visit
âď¸ Open daily 7 am – 5:30 pm
âď¸ 20 minutes from downtown Charleston
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