Givhans Ferry State Park
Givhans Ferry State Park is nestled along the Edisto River. It’s the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Camping spots and cabins are available for rent. Four cabins with screened back porches overlook the river. Separate sites are available for tent, RV and primitive camping. There’s even a riverfront hall that’s available for events. The hall was built during the Roosevelt administration during the Great Depression as a part of the New Deal Program. As a matter of fact, the entire park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps, which provided jobs during the 1930’s which addressed the need for the country to conserve natural beauty and create recreational spots to enjoy nature.
Once upon a time, this site was the crossing point for a ferry to move travelers across the Edisto River on the road from Augusta to Charleston. It was named after Phillip Givhan, the area ferry master during the late 1700’s. His granddaughter’s burial site is located on park property. The park’s riverbanks are protected as a Heritage Trust Site.
Givhans Ferry State Park is a part of the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail. Bring your gear and have someone drop you off at the Colleton State Park for the 23-mile paddling adventure that will bring you back to the park. The Edisto River is the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America. View rare plants that thrive along the limestone bluffs as you paddle along the riverbanks. Plan on this trip taking between seven and nine hours.
A hike along the 1.5-mile River Bluff Nature Trail is another good way to see the flora and fauna found at Givhans Ferry State Park. Hike across moderately steep slopes and a canal and overlook the river from the bluffs. View Cypress trees that grow majestically from the river floor. Don’t forget to look for local wildlife along the trail. The trail is an excellent spot for birdwatching.
If you enjoy casting a line, fishing gear can be obtained at the park office. The park participates in the Park Loaner Program sponsored by the SC Dept. of Natural Resources. A valid SC fishing license is required. Fish for flathead, catfish, red breast, channel catfish, largemouth bass, striped bass, shellcrackers, blue catfish and eels. Fish from the riverbank or bring along the boat. Access to a boat ramp can be found just a few miles away from the park.
Swimming is permitted at the park. No lifeguard is on duty and all swimming is at your own risk. Geocaching is also permitted. Several are located throughout the park. Souvenirs are available at the park store. There you will find t-shirts, caps, mugs, patches and other goodies.
The park encompasses 988 acres of natural habitat. Amenities include 35 campsites with electrical and water hook-up, four 2-bedroom cabins, and a site for primitive group camping. Two picnic shelters and a playground are also available. The park also has volleyball courts, horseshoe pits and games that are available for check-out at the park office. A Wi-Fi signal can be found at the park office. Make your reservations today to enjoy all that nature has to offer at the Givhan’s Ferry State Park.
Givhans Ferry State Park
746 Givhans Ferry Rd.
Ridgeville, SC 29472
Park: 843-873-0692
Reservations: 1-866-345-7275
