South Carolina to Open Its First New State Park in 20 Years by 2026

 Georgetown County, SC – For the first time in two decades, South Carolina will welcome a brand-new state park. Scheduled to open in 2026, the park will highlight the beauty of the Black River while protecting vital ecosystems and expanding outdoor recreation opportunities.

This milestone project is a partnership between the

This milestone project is a partnership between the Open Space Institute (OSI), the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT), and the University of South Carolina’s Winyah Bay and North Inlet National Estuarine Research Reserve (NERR) program.

Expanding Black River State Park

The expansion includes the 330-acre Brown’s Ferry tract in Georgetown County, which offers two miles of pristine Black River frontage. Of this land, 150 acres will be set aside for recreational use, while 180 acres will remain preserved as scenic bottomland hardwood forest.

Additionally, nearly 850 acres from the Mingo and Cold Creek tracts have been transferred to SCPRT, officially adding them to Black River State Park. These tracts will open up new access points for paddlers and potentially offer low-impact camping on higher ground above the cypress-tupelo wetlands.

Protecting Nature and Supporting Communities

The initiative isn’t just about recreation—it’s also about conservation. The University of South Carolina’s NERR program secured $1.5 million in funding to safeguard water quality and habitat connectivity in the region.

“This project helps protect delicate aquatic environments while improving public access to one of our state’s most treasured rivers,” said Erik Smith, Ph.D., Research Coordinator for the North Inlet-Winyah Bay NERR.

By protecting land along the Black River, the project also reduces flood risks for nearby communities. These natural floodplains act as sponges, absorbing and storing water during heavy rains.

The Black River Initiative

Launched in 2021, the Black River Initiative aims to connect 13 riverside public parks into a recreational water trail. To date, over 6,200 acres have been preserved, combining environmental stewardship with community-driven ecotourism.

According to SCPRT Director Joy Raintree, the new park will boost local economies by attracting visitors who, in turn, support nearby restaurants, shops, and lodging. It’s a win-win for conservation and community growth.

Looking Ahead

“Great things take time, including Black River State Park—but it is time well spent,” said Maria Whitehead, OSI’s Senior Vice President of Land for the Southeast. “We are deeply grateful to our partners and could not be more excited to celebrate this milestone with the community.”

Funding for the project came from multiple sources, including the South Carolina Conservation Bank (SCCB), the Knobloch Family Foundation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetland Conservation Act, and the Lowcountry Land Protection Capacity Fund.

Explore More of Coastal South Carolina

With its mix of preserved wilderness, paddling trails, and cultural history, the Black River State Park will soon be a must-visit destination. As South Carolina prepares to welcome its first new state park in 20 years, there’s no better time to start planning your coastal adventures.

For more travel insights, outdoor activities, and vacation planning tips, visit Coastal Area Guide and explore the best of the Carolina coast.

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