South Carolina is home to more state parks than we have counties. Each one of them offers diverse opportunities to get outside and play. When narrowing down the field to just one that stands out above the rest, we have to say this one does it by leaps and bounds.

Hunting Island State Park is historically the most visited park in the system.

Although the park is fully operational now, visits to most of the park were put on hold for more than a year after Hurricanes Matthew (2016) and Irma (2017) caused extensive damage.

Thankfully, though, our beloved state park is back to nearly full speed just in time for spring and an expectedly busy summer season.

And even though hundreds of thousands of visitors flock to the park each year, since there is an entire island to explore it rarely feels crowded. If there is one place to see that's on everyone's list it's the lighthouse.

Hunting Island light stands 133 feet tall and is made of cast iron plates.

The light was built in 1859 and 1875, and then moved 1.3 miles inland in 1899 due to beach erosion.

The light may be the most recognizable feature of Hunting Island State Park, but there are many other popular attractions and activities to keep you busy for days.

The park currently has four miles of open trails for hiking through the forest and along the coast.

The campground on the north end of the island has reopened and the visitor center and nature center are both open as well.

Most people don't realize Hunting Island still has one rental cabin available. It's located on the north end of the island and books well in advance. More information at this link.

And of course, the biggest swimming pool in the state is located at this favorite state park. There's no better place to cool off on a hot day than the Atlantic Ocean!

(To be fair, Myrtle Beach State Park has the same swimming pool.)

From the 19th century lighthouse that is still open for exploration, to four miles of beaches and an entire island to explore, Hunting Island State Park definitely stands out from the rest of South Carolina's state parks. However, we do love them all!

Hunting Island State Park is located at 2555 Sea Island Parkway, Hunting Island, SC. Park hours are 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (6:00 a.m. to 6:00 during daylight savings time). Admission: $5/adult; $3.25 SC seniors; $3/ child age 6-15; Free for children 5 and younger. Lighthouse admission: $2/person.

Click here to learn why this park will soon be doubling in size!