One of South Carolina’s 34 sea islands, Lady’s Island is situated just north of Beaufort and Port Royal in northern Beaufort County. Historically, the island was comprised of indigo plantations that were destroyed during the Civil War by Union troops. Many of those former plantations have since been developed into residential subdivisions. Lady’s Island is home to several parks in South Carolina, the newest being Crystal Lake Park in Beaufort which opened in January 2020.

Crystal Lake Park is a Beaufort County park in South Carolina consisting of 25 acres of enchanting forested habitats ...

... beautiful salt marsh ...

... and Crystal Lake.

The lake is a man-made seven-acre body of water populated with primarily redfish and mullet. There are docks for catch-and-release fishing in this beautiful South Carolina park. Other water activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming are not permitted.

Many species of birds have been documented at this South Carolina county park, including songbirds, wading birds, birds of prey, migratory waterfowl, and endangered species such as wood storks.

You may also see egrets and herons while exploring Crystal Lake Park in SC.

Other types of wildlife also live in the park, including frogs, turtles, snakes ...

... and, of course, alligators. So be cautious while exploring and keep your distance if you happen to spot one.

Take a hike along the 0.7-mile Crystal Lake Trail, an easy, partially-paved loop around Crystal Lake. About 75% of it is boardwalk, with the rest being a dirt trail.

Crystal Lake Park is one of the best parks in South Carolina to spend an absolutely delightful morning or afternoon out in nature.

There's even a Conservation Center at the park housed in a building that was formerly a boatyard! It now serves as office space for the Beaufort County Open Land Trust, the SC Soil and Water Conservation District, and the non-profit group, Friends of Crystal Lake, doubling as a Science Center used as a teaching tool for educating the general public.

There are bathrooms accessible from the exterior of the building for public use as well.

Be sure you take a good insect repellent while exploring Crystal Lake Park in Beaufort, South Carolina. Which South Carolina park is your favorite?

Have you discovered a little-known city or county park that you love? What is it you love most about it? Send us an attraction nomination. We'd love to check it out!