Nature meets prosperity: South Carolina unveils Black River State Park
March 26, 2026
South Carolina’s 50th State Park promises to be a shining example of how conservation and economic prosperity can coexist, reconnecting people to nature and each other.
Today, the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism (SCPRT) opened its 50th state park in Salters, SC to the applause and appreciation of elected officials, conservation partners, landowners and community members alike. This first phase, the Meadows at Black River State Park, is just part of a sprawling network planned along 70 miles of the Black River as it crosses Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties.
What started as an idea five years ago by South Carolina native and Senior Vice President of the Open Space Institute Dr. Maria Whitehead was realized through a herculean effort led by SCPRT in collaboration with a variety of conservation partners and public and private funders to create a public park and water trail network that will benefit the state for generations to come.
“This black water ribbon could connect people and communities with a totally unique experience, stretching 70 miles from Kingstree through Andrews to the Rocky Point Forest,” Whitehead shared as part of her pitch to SCPRT officials in 2021. “The park could be the best example of 21st century conservation coupled with safe access to recreation, economic opportunity in rural communities, and a shining example of resilience. Through its creation, we could ensure that those most connected to the river can access it, protect it and see it in their future.”
Among the other speakers at the ribbon-cutting celebration were Chris Crolley, founder of Coastal Expeditions and Mayor of the Town of Awendaw; Jayson Sellers, who is new Black River State Park Manager; Erik Kulleseid, president and CEO of the Open Space Institute; Duane Parrish, SCPRT director; State Senator Ronnie Saab; and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster, who was credited for his efforts to preserve more natural lands during his tenure than any other governor.
“In his 10 years as governor, we have been able to protect more than 400,000 acres of land through conversation,” Duane Parrish said. “Protecting nature and providing recreational opportunities are good for tourism, and the Black River State Park will be a catalyst for sustainable tourism growth in Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties. Tourism is $31 billion industry in South Carolina, and this park shows we can balance prosperity and preservation” with the anticipated economic development impact expected to occur in the two counties.
Senator Saab shared his pleasure with the creation of the new park, stating he had been concerned with the influx of new landowners who were installing gates and fences to limit river access to others. “Today we are saying that there are no limits – access to the Black River is available to everybody,” Saab said. “The future is rooted right here at the river, and we’re going to show how economic development and conservation can go hand in hand.”
Governor McMaster served as the event’s final speaker, commenting on the state’s beauty and diversity of natural assets. He predicted that the new state park will be the envy of other states and potentially lead the way for conservation across our country. “Nature renews our soul,” McMaster added. “We have a unique history and abundant resources that make South Carolina a very special place.”
Immediately following the prepared remarks, the key dignitaries and partners gathered for a ribbon-cutting photo opportunity, which was followed by a guided tour of the park’s trail system and lunch.
To learn more about the genesis of the Black River Initiative, visit here. And watch the park’s introductory video on YouTube.
To celebrate the park’s opening, the community is invited to come out Friday, March 27 and Saturday, March 28 from noon to 4:00 pm to explore South Carolina’s newest state park.
Activities include canoeing and kayaking, fishing, bird watching, picnicking, hiking and biking. Community recreational representatives will be on hand, and the Kingstree Lions Club will provide lunch.
The park is located at 6251 US-521 , Salters, SC 29590.
