October 2025 events in Charleston County Parks
September 11, 2025
October 2025 Festivals & Events
Lowcountry Trail Half Marathon & 5K Run/Walk
Saturday, Oct. 4, 8 a.m.
Johns Island County Park
Join us on the scenic trails of Johns Island County Park for our annual Lowcountry Trail Half Marathon and 5K Run/Walk. 5K is open to runners or walkers. Let’s not forget the littles. Before the race (7:50 a.m.), we invite children ages 3-7 of all abilities, to dash across the finish, too. Registration is available for a separate fee of $5 and includes a finisher medal. Registration is required. Parent or guardian must be present. This is an untimed event. What to expect: Accessible parking is available near the event site. Route to restroom building and class site is natural, unimproved surface. Accessible restrooms in meadow near event site. Accessible port-a-let on course. All trails are of a natural, unimproved surface. Loop course with water stations. For more information, visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Fee: $55 for Half Marathon, $38 for 5K Run/Walk, $5 for Kids Dash
Ages: 10 and up
Half Marathon: 15799
5K Run/Walk: 15800
Kids Dash (ages 3-7): 15801
A Big Sit: Accessible Birding
Saturday, Oct. 4, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
James Island County Park – Group Campsite A
How many birds can we identify while staying within a seventeen-foot diameter circle? Join this accessible and inclusive birding event to help answer this question! Birding enthusiasts will be there to help with species identification and information. Drop in for 20 minutes or stick around for hours, as this is sure to be a fun learning experience about and for birds of many feathers. This program is free, but registration does not include the $2.00 per person gate fee. What to expect: This program is open to birders of all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains are available for you to use. Please feel free to bring food/snacks with you to enjoy at the accessible picnic tables available for you near the count circle. The count circle area includes a packed grassy surface that is mostly flat. Please bring your own seat from camp chair to wheelchair. Some binoculars and chairs will be available to share among participants.
Fee: FREE
Ages: 12 and up
Latin American Festival
Sunday, Oct. 5, 12 – 5 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park
This annual tradition brings people together to celebrate Charleston’s vibrant Latin and Caribbean cultures at one of the Lowcountry’s favorite county parks. Festivities include non-stop music, traditional dance performances, folkloric artwork and crafts, and authentic food and beverages. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com or call 843-795-4386 for more information.
Fee: $20 per vehicle in advance; $25 at the event
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/1699/Latin-American-Festival
The Boardr Series skateboarding competition
Friday, Oct. 10, 6 – 8 p.m., and Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
SK8 Charleston
The Boardr Series is a national, all ages and skills skateboarding contest series that is designed to provide a fun and fulfilling skateboarding experience for all participants. A portion of the entry fees benefit the Grind for Life non-profit organization. Spectators are welcome. For a schedule of events or to register, visit https://ccprc.com/3601/Boardr-Series.
https://theboardr.com/theboardrseries
Registration: $50
https://ccprc.com/3601/Boardr-Series
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Oct. 11, 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Join us at the Mount Pleasant Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest youth catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Mount Pleasant Pier at 843-762-9946.
Fee: $12 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $8 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders
Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments
Palmetto Park Jam
Sunday, Oct. 12, 11 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Palmetto Islands County Park
Come out to Palmetto Islands County Park to enjoy live music from Allman Brothers tribute band Idlewild Revival! Gates open at 11 a.m. Live music begins at 12 p.m. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Visit CharlestonCountyParks.com for more information.
Fee: $20 per vehicle in advance; $30 per vehicle at the event if not sold out; Free for Gold Pass members
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/3352/Palmetto-Park-Jam
Starlight Yoga
Thursday, Oct. 16, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park
The moon and stars enhance this flowing yoga class while sand serves as the classroom floor and crashing waves as the soundtrack. Participants will receive a special glow in the dark prize. Open to all fitness levels.
Fee: $10 in advance; $12 at the event
Ages: 10 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/2079/Starlight-Yoga
Fall Family Festival
Saturday, Oct. 18, 1 – 4 p.m.
West County Aquatic Center/Hollywood Town Hall
Charleston County Parks is providing a day of fun, food trucks, DJ, jump castles, face painting, and more. This event is free to the public.
Fee: FREE
Ages: ANY
https://ccprc.com/3758/Fall-Family-Festival
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Oct. 25, 6 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Folly Beach Pier
Join us at the Folly Beach Pier for a fun day of fishing during the Cast Off Fishing Tournament. Prize categories include Biggest 3 by Weight, Biggest Youth Catch (12 & under), and Best 5 Fish Total Weight. No preregistration required. Register on site the morning of each tournament. For more information, call the Folly Beach Pier at 843-762-9516.
Fee: $12 for ages 13 and up; $9 for members of the military; $8 for youth and seniors; $5 for fishing pass holders
Ages: 3 and up (adult chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
https://ccprc.com/2038/Cast-Off-Fishing-Tournaments
Trick Treat and Trail Fun Run and Festival
Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Wannamaker County Park – Small Meadow
Get ready to be treated during our spooktacular fun run and festival chock full of trick or treating, candy and entertainment including face painting, jump castles, local vendors, and refreshments. What to expect: The fun run is open to runners and walkers of all levels, including beginners. Accessible parking and restrooms are available. The route includes grass meadow and paved trails. Loop course with water stations and short cut option. To register or to see a schedule of the day’s activities, please visit CharlestonCountyParks.com.
Fee: $20 per vehicle in advance; $25 per vehicle at the event
Ages: any
https://ccprc.com/3715/Trick-Treat-Trail
McClellanville Fall Festival
Friday, Oct. 31, 5:30 – 8 p.m.
Lincoln Regional Center – Basketball Gymnasium
Come join us for a festive fall evening where costumes are encouraged and fun is guaranteed! Enjoy an abundance of candy, delicious food, exciting games, and much more with your family and friends. Registration is not required to attend.
Fee: FREE
Ages: any
16282
October Daily Programs
Gator Tales
Wannamaker County Park
Thursday, Oct. 2, 10 a.m. – 12 noon
Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of “keystone species.” Alligators captivate us with their ancient features, remarkable survival skills, and dangerous potential. Join us to learn about many of their fascinating behaviors and features while learning how you can keep yourself and alligators safe! What to expect : Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are composed of a natural surface and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.
Fee: $12
Ages: 12 and up.
Beginners Night at the Climbing Wall
Thursday, Oct. 2 and 30, 5 – 7 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
New to climbing? This is the perfect place to start. Join us for a relaxed, staff-supported session designed to help you learn the basics, meet other beginners, and enjoy the experience at your own pace. Free gear rental is included, and you’re welcome to stay and climb until close. No experience needed, just show up ready to try something new.
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up.
Belay Basics
Sunday, Oct. 5, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
New to belaying? This class will teach you the essential skills to belay safely and confidently on top rope. We’ll cover proper setup, communication, catching falls, and gear handling, all broken down step by step. No experience required, just a willingness to learn. By the end, you’ll be ready to belay a climbing partner outdoors or indoors. Gear is provided; feel free to bring your own.
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
Seashore Exploration
Monday, Oct. 6, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Folly Beach County Park
Early Fall is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as molluscs, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis. Held on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.
Fee: $12
Ages: 9 and up
Brick by Brick
Thursday, Oct. 9, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Palmetto Islands County Park – Peninsula Center
Join Cultural History Interpretation Specialist Ista Clarke at Palmetto Islands County Park for a walk and discussion on an often seen though not often discussed cash crop in the Lowcountry, Bricks! What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a loop, and benches are available along the trail route. Speed is moderately slow to medium. Trails are flat and are paved and consist of natural, unimproved surfaces.
Fee: $8
Ages: 18 and up
Homeschool in the Parks: Carolina Gold
Friday, Oct. 10, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Explore former rice fields and walk through the various steps required for the cultivation of rice. Examine the cultural roles and influences of enslaved Africans and African Americans in Coastal South Carolina. What to expect: Accessible parking is available. Accessible restrooms, water fountains and picnic tables are all available near the Welcome Center where program begins and ends. The park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. The program route is a stroll through the rice fields and benches are available along the trail route.
Fee: $7
Ages: 7 – 12 years
16506
Lighthouse Inlet Bird Walk
Friday, Oct. 10, 8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Lighthouse Inlet Heritage Preserve
This walk focuses on the incredibly diverse northeast end of Folly Island. Once the home of a Coast Guard station, this Heritage Preserve protects maritime forest, beach, dune, and marsh habitats for wildlife. This site boasts one of the largest bird lists in South Carolina. At this time of year, we hope to see a variety of songbirds, seabirds, and shorebirds such as Painted Bunting, Sandwich Tern, Whimbrel, and much more. What to expect: This program is open to birders of all levels, including beginners. No accessible parking is available. No restrooms are available. The park includes a paved surface that leads to a natural, unimproved surface out to a sandy beach. The program route is out and back and is approximately one-mile-long total. The program route is flat leading to moderate elevation when crossing sand dunes and no benches are available along the trail. The program speed is moderately slow and requires periods of standing and gazing upwards.
Fee: $12
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
16528
Caw Caw: Walking on History
Saturday, Oct. 11, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
The Stono Rebellion, the largest uprising of people who were enslaved in the British colonies, took place in 1739 within a 15-mile radius of the Caw Caw Interpretive Center. Come and walk on the actual ground where a key event in the rebellion occurred. After the tour, a discussion of the event and the implications will be held. The Stono Rebellion changed the face of slavery and the consequences of the uprising centered the Gullah Geechee community. Join us for this very special walk. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program route is a flat loop and benches are available along the trail route. The trails are unpaved. The program speed is moderately slow.
Fee: $10
Ages: 15 and up
16256
Intro to Archery
Saturday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Schroder Community Center – Multipurpose Field
Enhance your archery skills on our six-target archery range and 3D course at Johns Island County Park. Bring the kids, enjoy basic instruction, and we’ll explore both ranges. Equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Fee: $30
Ages 10 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
16649
Family Archery
Saturday, Oct. 11, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Schroder Community Center – Multipurpose Field
Get your bull’s-eye! Bring the family, get a brief orientation, and fling some arrows at Johns Island County Park’s target archery range. Equipment will be provided. Each family member wishing to participate must pre-register.
Fee: $20
Ages 8 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
16650
Intro to Lead Climbing
Sunday, Oct. 12, 1 – 4 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
Ready to take your climbing to the next level? This class covers the basics of lead climbing in the gym. How to clip safely, manage rope drag, belay a lead climber, and fall safely with confidence. We’ll walk you through key techniques and safety protocols, with plenty of hands-on practice. No prior lead experience needed, but participants should be comfortable top rope belaying and able to climb at a 5.9 level or higher. All gear provided; bring your own if you prefer.
Fee: $40
Ages: 14 and up.
16614
Seashore Exploration
Thursday, Oct. 16, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Isle of Palms County Park
Fall is a great season to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as molluscs, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the Park Center where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.
Fee: $12
Ages: 9 and up
Better Birding: How to Sharpen Your Skills
Thursday, Oct. 16, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center – classroom
Master Naturalist advanced training opportunities provide exposure and skill development in areas such as natural history, natural resource management, and nature interpretation. In order to keep a Master Naturalist certification current, you must take at least eight hours of advanced training per year. Dive deeper into bird identification, observation, and behavior. Hone your listening skills too, as an emphasis will be placed on birding by ear through several distinct habitat types ranging from blackwater swamp to salt marsh. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at the Welcome Center where the program begins and ends. Park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. Program route is a loop, and benches are available along the trail. Program speed is moderately slow and includes periods of standing and gazing upwards.
Fee: $50
Ages: 18 and up
16557
Intro to Archery
Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Lincoln Regional Center at Multipurpose Field
Enhance your archery skills on our six-target archery range and 3D course at Johns Island County Park. Bring the kids, enjoy basic instruction, and we’ll explore both ranges. Equipment will be provided, but feel free to bring your own. A registered and paid chaperone is required for participants ages 15 and under.
Fee: $30
Ages 10 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
16651
Family Archery
Saturday, Oct. 18, 1 – 2:30 p.m.
Lincoln Regional Center at Multipurpose Field
Get your bull’s-eye! Bring the family, get a brief orientation, and fling some arrows at Johns Island County Park’s target archery range. Equipment will be provided. Each family member wishing to participate must pre-register.
Fee: $20
Ages 8 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
16652
Adaptive Climbing Day
Sunday, Oct. 19
Youth: 1 – 3 p.m.
Adult: 3 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
We’re partnering with Catalyst Sports to host a monthly adaptive climbing meetup, a welcoming and supportive space for climbers with disabilities. Whether you’re brand new to climbing or a seasoned pro, this community is all about overcoming obstacles together, fostering growth, and celebrating every step of the journey. Adaptive climbers will find an encouraging environment that highlights individual strengths and embraces the excitement of climbing. Empower yourself, reach new heights, and connect with a community where every achievement matters. Interested in Volunteering? We would love your help! Volunteers must register with both CCPRC and Catalyst Sports and complete a required training. Please sign up with Catalyst using the link below and reach out to us for more information. Register through Catalyst Sports This event is free, but registration is required for both climbers and volunteers through Catalyst, in addition to registering with CCPRC. For questions or more info, contact our Climbing Wall Manager [email protected]
Fee: FREE
For kids ages 6-15 and adults ages 16 and up
Ages: 16 and up.
Seashore Exploration
Monday, Oct. 20, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Beachwalker County Park
Early Fall is a great time to explore the beach. Join an experienced naturalist to familiarize yourself with many species that may be found there. We’ll search for artifacts and living creatures along the beach such as molluscs, sponges, corals, and more. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the snack bar where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first-come, first-served basis. This program takes place on a sandy beach and requires periods of slow walking, standing, and gazing upwards or downwards to observe wildlife.
Fee: $12
Ages: 9 and up
Benefits of Bats
Friday, Oct. 24, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center – classroom
No matter where you live, there are likely bats nearby, which is good since we rely on bats to have healthy ecosystems. They eat insects, pollinate plants, disperse seeds, inspire innovation, and serve as prey to other animals. A single bat can eat up to its body weight in insects each night. Come celebrate Bat Week with us and learn about what we can do to help the conservation of this unique mammal. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The program speed is moderately slow and will require periods of standing and gazing upwards.
Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up
16558
Wee Wild Ones: Pumpkins in the Park
Friday, Oct. 24, 9 – 10 a.m. and 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center – classroom
Young children will channel their inner explorers while enjoying nature through hands-on activities, games, music, and art. Explore the parts of plants by learning about pumpkins. We’ll scoop seeds, role-play plant life cycles, and have fun decorating a pumpkin to take home. What to expect: Accessible restrooms, water fountains, and picnic table are available near the classroom where the program begins and ends. The program will start in an air-conditioned indoor classroom. We will be decorating the pumpkins outside in a picnic area with seating for the last portion of the program. We will be using non-toxic paint to decorate the pumpkins.
Fee: $10
Ages: 18 months to 6 years old
16496
Big Momma’s Sweet Potato Pie
Friday, Oct. 24, 11 a.m. – 12 noon.
McLeod Plantation Historic Site
Big Momma’s Sweet Potato Pie is a fun, flavorful program that playfully debates the age-old question: Is pumpkin pie better than sweet potato pie? Join food historian and documentarian Julian Gooding for a demonstration where he will share his family’s beloved sweet potato pie recipe and the secrets behind making the perfect pie. We’ll dive into the rich history of the sweet potato and its deep cultural significance, particularly for African Americans after the Civil War. Through the lens of this iconic dessert, Big Momma’s Sweet Potato Pie celebrates the role of sweet potatoes in African American history and invites you to join in the debate—once and for all—on which pie reigns supreme! What to expect: This program will take place at the McLeod Plantation Historic Site Pavilion where seating is available for all participants. The program location is outside in a shaded area. A small, tasting portion of food will be provided to each participant. McLeod Plantation Historic Site has accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables. Trails throughout the property are of a natural, unpaved surface. Thanks to the generous support of the Charleston County Parks Foundation, this program is offered at a discount. Registration is strongly recommended to guarantee you have a spot.
Fee: $5
Ages: 16 yrs and up
Gator Tales
Caw Caw Interpretive Center – Garden area
Saturday, Oct. 25, 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us as we search for alligators and separate fact from fiction to learn why these large reptiles carry the special title of “keystone species.” Alligators captivate us with their ancient features, remarkable survival skills, and dangerous potential. Join us to learn about many of their fascinating behaviors and features while learning how you can keep yourself and alligators safe! What to expect : Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are composed of a natural surface and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.
Fee: $12
Ages: 12 and up.
Monarch Migration
Saturday, Oct. 25, 1 – 3 p.m.
Folly Beach County Park – Dunes House
Did you know monarch butterflies are the subject of tag and release research? Join a naturalist to search for and potentially tag monarchs while learning about their amazing annual migration. What to expect: Accessible parking is available, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available near the Dunes House where the program begins and ends. An accessible route to a natural sand beach is present and beach wheelchairs are available for checkout on a first come, first served basis. For more information about wheelchairs at Folly Beach County Park, click here. The program will require periods of slow walking and standing.
Fee: $12
Ages: 9 and up
Junior Naturalist: One Earth
Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier – Entrance
With a population around seven billion, humans can have quite an impact on the environment we all share. Learn about natural resource use, land development, and ways you can make a difference to keep our home planet healthy. What to expect: Accessible parking, water fountains, restrooms, and picnic tables are available at this location. The program will take place on a flat, paved surface. The program includes games and activities where participants will run, but accommodations can be made onsite.
Fee: $10
Ages: 8 – 12 years
Register in advance at www.CharlestonCountyParks.com
