Inside: Local mom, Rebecca, shares all the details about Charles Towne Landing State Park after a visit with her young kids.
Have you visited Charles Towne Landing? If you’re heading to Charleston and looking for a way to spend the day without breaking the bank, you don’t want to miss this unique South Carolina State Park.
Charles Towne Landing has something for everyone — a history trail, a 17th-century sailing ship, an animal nature park, and beautiful grounds perfect for family photos and picnics. We think you should definitely put this one on your Charleston bucket list!
Charles Towne Landing is a historic site located off the Ashley River, where the first English settlers landed in 1670. These early travelers stayed, forming the beginnings of what would become the Carolina colony.
Things to Do & See at Charles Towne Landing State Park
That history may be a tough sell to the youngest kids — but the park’s mix of nature, animals, hands-on learning, and room to roam makes this more than just a history lesson.
🚢 The 17th-Century Replica Ship
Board a replica of a trading vessel from the 1600s, situated in the marsh with picture-perfect views of the water and Ravenel Bridge.
While the ship is moored and doesn’t set sail, it gives families a fascinating peek into history.
Kids can get an up-close look at how boats with sails worked before engines.
Explore below deck and imagine what life was like for the early settlers.
🦌 Animal Natural Habitat Zoo
Walk the trail through the Animal Forest, where animals that were found in the Carolinas in the 1700s live in natural habitats.
You’ll spot:
- Otters, bison, red wolves, deer, and more
- Bathrooms are located about midway through the trail
- The trail winds along the river — keep your eyes out for extra wildlife!
Ask a ranger if any animal enrichment activities are happening during your visit. They’re a great way to see the animals interact with their environment.
Please note: Bikes and dogs are not permitted inside the Animal Forest.
Walk Through History on the Trails
Set out on the trails to discover the deep history of this site, where settlers lived from 1670 to 1680.
Scan QR codes along the way or rent headphones for a self-guided tour.
Visit colonial homes, indentured servant quarters, cannons, and other historic displays.
The interactive museum inside the visitor center showcases life for early settlers and Native Americans.
💥 Keep in mind: The Black Powder Program includes cannon and musket fire. If you have a child with sensory issues, you may want to ask ahead if this will be happening during your visit.
The Legare Waring House & Gardens
This unique state park includes 80 acres of gardens and grounds to explore. The path to the Legare Waring House is lined with beautiful, moss-draped live oaks that are postcard-worthy.
- This nearly 200-year-old home is a popular venue for weddings and events.
- It’s also a perfect spot for vacation photos — we took so many in the gardens!
- Pack a travel tripod so everyone can be in the picture.
- The gardens make a great play space for kids while grown-ups relax.
During January, February, July, and August, ranger-guided tours of the grounds and house are available.
🧺 Bring a Picnic + Explore More
There’s an expansive picnic area that’s great for lunch, snack breaks, or just letting the kids run around.
Extras you can enjoy:
- Rent a bike ($8/hour or $20 for the day), or bring your own
- Go on a geocaching adventure
Important Tips for Visiting
This park is big — walking all the trails between exhibits adds up to about 7 miles!
- Strollers and wheelchairs are available at the ticket counter, free to use
- LOTS of walking, so a scooter or stroller for little ones is really helpful
- Bring plenty of water, especially in the hotter months
- Visitors can come and go throughout the day with a paid ticket
- Leashed dogs are welcome on the grounds, but not in the Animal Forest
- Guests can come and go from the park with the price of admittance. This is helpful if you are visiting during the hot summer months. You can leave and grab lunch and then come back for a few hours before the park closes.
- Note that the exit is through the gift shop. Prepare kids in advance if you do not plan to browse the shop.
Admission To Charles Towne Landing
Guests with a South Carolina State Park Passport get into the park for free! If you’re a fan of South Carolina State Parks, this pass is definitely worth considering.
Admission for all others:
- $12 – adults
- $7.50 – South Carolina Resident Seniors (age 65+)
- $7 – youth ages 6–15
- Free for children 5 and younger
📍 1500 Old Towne Road, Charleston, SC 29407
So, Have You Been?
We’d love to know: What was your family’s favorite part of Charles Towne Landing? Did the kids love the ship, the animals, or just running under the giant oaks?
Drop a comment to share your tips for visiting this one-of-a-kind state park!
Have you been to this unique state park? What was your favorite part?
Find lots more Things to Do in Charleston, SC!
