Hunting Island in Beaufort, South Carolina
Located near Beaufort, Port Royal & Sea Islands, Hunting Island is conveniently situated to give visitors a taste of nature near charming and relaxing seaside towns. Along with Fripp Island, it is one of the six Beaufort Barrier Islands that naturally protect our area's mainland. This semitropical state park is home to an array of wildlife and is ideal for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. Hunting Island maintains 100 campsites with amenities that include water and electrical hookups, shower and restroom facilities, and a playground so families and guests of all ages can enjoy this beautiful park.
History of Hunting Island
The island was first named Reynolds Island after its first official owner, Richard Reynolds, whose family owned it through much of the 18th century. It was changed to Hunting Island because it was a favorite hunting ground for regional plantation farmers during the mid-1800s. Long before European settlers arrived, the island was inhabited by Native American communities who left behind relics of their culture.
About the Area
The island was declared a state park in 1941. Several notable aspects make it unique, from its flora and fauna to the famed and reportedly haunted lighthouse.
Hunting Island Lighthouse
The island’s iconic lighthouse, constructed in 1859, was destroyed by Confederate Army soldiers to keep it out of the hands of the Union Army during the United States Civil War. Rebuilt in the mid-1870s, it was moved farther inland to avoid beach erosion and remained a working lighthouse until 1933. It is said to be haunted by a former keeper’s daughter.
***Lighthouse closed for renovations***
Fauna
A variety of fauna is abundant within this 5000-acre park. Wildlife here includes deer, alligators, diamondback rattlesnakes, and many others. A conservation program exists for the inhabiting loggerhead turtles on the island, considered threatened under the Endangered Species Act. The island is a paradise for birders, boasting hundreds of different water-loving species.
Flora
The maritime forest is home to a myriad of trees, plants, and flowers, including the Sabal Palmetto. A type of palm, the Sabal is SC’s official state tree and can grow up to 90 ft. tall. Live oaks dwell here, too, some surviving up to 1,000 years. Cacti, such as prickly pear and yucca, also thrive in this environment.
Salt Marsh Ecology
The Atlantic Ocean-facing side of the island offers nearly five miles of soft white sand. Yet the salt marsh lagoon portion of the island enjoys a unique and dynamic ecosystem where dolphins, tiger sharks, shrimp, crabs, and certain turtle species flourish. Osprey and eagles are easily spotted hunting here.
These are just a few of the intriguing aspects of Hunting Island that make it a unique destination for all.
