Frequently Asked Questions
Below you will find information that might help you understand how to find things or learn about information you might need to know about your city or town.
Climbing
How do I get started climbing?
We recommend our Introduction to Climbing program as the best starting point, although you may also come in anytime to try it out.
Do I need to take a lesson in order to climb?
No. You can boulder in our facility without any instruction, and auto belays are available after a brief orientation. If you are a competent belayer you may take our belay test to demonstrate that you know how to operate all the equipment safely during any of our normal hours.
The belay test requires that you demonstrate your ability to: 1. Put on your harness correctly. 2. Tie into the climbing rope with a figure-eight follow-through knot. 3. Operate the belay device safely. 4. Catch two falls.
When you demonstrate these skills in front of staff, you will be issued a belay pass to attach to your harness that will exempt you from having to be tested each time you come in. If you cannot demonstrate these skills, you will be asked to come back another time to try again, or take our lesson.
If you don’t know how to belay, we recommend that you attend one of our Intro to Climbing classes.
What does the Introduction to Climbing Class cover?
The Introduction to Climbing Class covers:
- Putting on your climbing harness correctly
- Climbing gear, history, and terminology
- How to tie into the rope using a figure-eight follow-through knot
- How to operate the belay device safely to control the descent of your climbing partner
- Basic climbing techniques to make the experience easier and more enjoyable
What is the difference between bouldering, top-roping, and lead climbing?
Bouldering is the act of low climbing, without the use of ropes and harnesses. It can be done on your own and does not require any prior instruction. The use of a spotter is highly recommended. Top Roping is where the rope is already set up on the wall for you. The climber and belayer attach to opposite ends of the rope, and the climber ascends the wall, while the partner pulls up slack in the rope through a belay device. Lead Climbing is a more advanced form of climbing and one that is commonly seen when climbing outside. In lead climbing, the climber brings their rope up the wall with them as they climb, clipping into the carabiners attached to the wall. Lead climbing requires advanced training, and a well-developed climbing ability (5.9 or above) to be comfortable leading.
What is “Belaying?"
Belaying is the act of managing the rope for your climbing partner to keep them safe. Whenever a climber ascends beyond 10 feet, they must have a belay partner who has been certified by The Climbing Wall staff. On top-rope, the belayer’s job is to take up slack in the rope as the climber progresses, so that they can lower them safely and slowly back down to the ground when they complete a climb.
What is the minimum age to climb?
There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds.
There is also no maximum age limit.
What is the minimum age to belay?
You must be at least 14 or older to belay at The Climbing Wall. By age 14, most kids have both the physical capability and the mental maturity to handle the responsibilities of belaying, though be advised that staff can refuse to allow anyone to belay who does not demonstrate their ability to safely operate equipment.
Who can I call for more information?
Call the Climbing Wall staff at 843-762-9511.
Do I need a climbing partner?
Not necessarily. We have 12 auto-belays at the wall. If you want to top rope or lead climb, you will need to come with a partner who has passed one of our belay tests.
How can I find a climbing partner?
The climbing networking site ClimbFind is an excellent resource for finding partners. You may also put up a notice on the bulletin board at The Climbing Wall.
Do I need to make a reservation to climb?
The Climbing Wall at James Island County Park is now available for climbing sessions by pre-registration. A limited amount of walk-up space may be available based on pre-registrations.
What should I wear and bring with me?
Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move freely. Avoid very short shorts, which tend to bunch up above the leg loops when you climb. People with long hair should bring an elastic band to tie it up, since it can be a safety hazard if it is long enough to fall into the belay device. It is also a good idea to bring a water bottle, though we also have a drinking fountain.
Can I bring my children to climb?
Absolutely! There is no minimum age to climb, but there is a minimum weight to climb, which is 40 pounds.
Kids of all ages love to climb, though typically kids age 7 and up will have more stamina for a longer session. Please note that anyone under 18 years of age must have a waiver signed by their parent or legal guardian, so if you are bringing along nieces, nephews or friends of your children, you will need to have them sign one ahead of time for you to bring with you to the Wall.
I already know how to belay, but my friend doesn’t. Can I teach them?
No. Only The Climbing Wall employees may instruct. This ensures a uniform safety standard in our facility, which makes our staff and insurance company very happy.
Isn’t climbing really dangerous?
Climbing may initially seem to be a very dangerous activity, since it involves scaling vertical walls many feet into the air. In reality, climbing is a very accessible sport that can be enjoyed by almost anyone. That said, there are real safety concerns that come with any vertical sport, and it is important to receive proper instruction on belaying before you get yourself into a dangerous situation. Anytime you are in doubt, please ASK our staff - they love to offer (frequently unsolicited) advice for any situation.
Fishing Pier
What will the tide be like for my visit?
NOAA tide charts are available through December 2009.
What is the present water temperature at the Pier?
The National Oceanographic Data Center displays present water temperature data for the nearest tide station.
Volunteering
Is there a minimum commitment required to volunteer?
No, any time from 2 hours to 1,000 is very much appreciated.
Who can volunteer?
Families, businesses, groups, and individuals, ages 13 and older, are eligible.
How do I get started?
All potential volunteers must fill out an application and may be asked to provide references prior to volunteering with Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission.
Nature & History Programs for School Groups
How do I arrange a program?
Start by reviewing programs before completing a preliminary booking and information form. The program coordinator will review the form and contact you to discuss your needs. At that time, we will help you through the steps needed to confirm the date.
How much does it cost?
Cost varies according to program length. Generally speaking, school program costs range from $75 for a 30-minute program to $130 for a 90-minute program per group of 25 students.
Each year the Charleston County Parks Foundation provides funding to offset the costs of field trips to a select number of Charleston County Public Schools. Funding is distributed on a first come, first served basis to schools that qualify. To apply to receive a free field trip, please submit the Information Request Form.
Which parks offer school programs?
Our education staff will meet you at nearly any county park. Information about which parks are used for specific programs is listed under program descriptions.
Can I leave feedback about a program?
Yes, please! We would love to hear about your school’s experience with our programs. Please complete a survey and let us know how your program went.
At the park, are there bathrooms? Picnic areas? Bus parking?
Your county parks are designed to accommodate school groups and have bathrooms, picnic areas, and bus parking. Depending on the park, there may also be other amenities like food, drinks, outdoor showers, etc. When the coordinator contacts you as a result of the preliminary booking and information form, we will answer any logistical questions you may have about a specific park.
Can our school bring multiple groups in one day?
Absolutely. Multiple groups enjoy several programs in a “round robin” format with groups rotating through several programmers.
How many students and chaperones can be in one program?
To keep the quality of the program high, we require a group size of no more than 25 students. We also require a 1:10 ratio of chaperone to students so for a group of 25, there would be 2 to 3 chaperones. We have found 2-3 chaperones and a teacher is optimal as long as the chaperones are involved and understand their roles.
Where can I find directions to the park?
Directions to any park can be found at our
Dog Park
When are the dog parks closed for maintenance?
The off-leash dog parks are closed for routine maintenance for a couple of hours each week:
- Wannamaker: Closed each Monday until 10 a.m.
- James Island: Closed each Wednesday until 9 a.m
- Palmetto Islands: Closed each Wednesday until 9 a.m.
Is the water quality of the lake at James Island County Park monitored?
At Charleston County Parks, we responsibly and safely monitor our natural recourses within our park system. The dog park at James Island County Park is situated on a peninsula that is surrounded by a retention pond that does not drain into storm water sewers. In addition, riparian buffers were created along the retention pond border. These buffers help protect the water from the impact of the adjacent land. Our staff worked with the S.C. Department of Health & Environmental Control (DHEC) prior to opening the dog park. We have contracted the services of a pond management company to conduct water quality tests multiple times throughout the year to ensure that we meet DHEC standards for recreational use for dogs and people
Do you have a warning about alligators?
Alligators are a natural, normal, and important part of wetlands along the coast of South Carolina. Usually docile creatures, these reptiles can become aggressive as an unintended result of being fed by people. Once the alligator associates people with food, it must be killed. Remember: A fed gator is a dead gator. For this reason, the S.C. Dept. of Natural Resources can fine up to $2,000 and imprison anyone feeding, harassing, or approaching an alligator.
Is the dog park the only area where my dog can be off-leash?
Exercising, sniffing, and playing off-leash are important to a dog’s sense of well-being. Your county park system is proud to provide these facilities for our pooch patrons in several county parks. However, once your pet leaves the dog park, it must be leashed at all times. A leashed pet is not likely to:
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Stress songbirds & other wildlife.
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Be harmed or killed by poisonous plants, venomous snakes, ticks, or vehicles.
- Ruin the outing of another visitor who does not understand how lovable your pet is.
Geocaching & Letterboxing
Geocaching & Letterboxing Policies
Definitions and guidelines for geocaching and letterboxing participation at CCPRC facilities is available
Employment
What is the minimum age to apply for a job?
The minimum age to apply is 15 years old. In order to be a lifeguard or work at the Holiday Festival of Lights you must be at least 16 years old. In order to be a Camp Counselor or a Maintenance Assistant, you must be at least 18 years old due to FLSA requirements.
Will I be contacted regarding the status of my application?
Applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted directly by the hiring division.
May I submit my resume by attaching it to an email?
You may send your resume via email for the position in which you are interested. However, a resume does not substitute in any way for the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission Employment Application. When completing an application through our online application submission process, you may upload your resume before submitting, or you can email it to humanresources@ccprc.com.
Do I need to create a new user name and password if I have applied with CCPRC in the past?
Our new online application does not require a login, therefore your information will not be saved, and you are required to complete a new application each time you apply for a position.
How can I find the specific position for which I want to apply?
You can find jobs by location, by type, by job category, or by position title. Each of these columns may be sorted.
How will I know my application has been received?
Once you complete your application, you will receive an automatic response notifying you that your application has been received electronically.
How long after applying can I expect to hear from CCPRC?
Once you have submitted your application it will remain under review through the season. If you are selected for an interview, you will receive a call from a hiring supervisor.
What can I do if there are no positions currently available online?
Check back periodically to www.ccprc.com/jobs. If there is a position available, it will be posted.
May I apply for more than one position?
Yes. You may apply for as many positions as you are qualified, however you will need to complete a new application for each position.
Campground & Cottages
Can I view photos of the camp sites?
Yes! We have photos of each campsite available in our Campground gallery.
What does full hook-up include?
Each full hook-up site has a sewer connection, water spigot, and 20/30/50 amp electric connections. These sites also have a picnic table and fire ring. Wireless internet is available throughout the campground.
Is cable available in the campground or cottages?
Cable is not available. Each cottage has satellite TV, and there is satellite TV in the Activity Center for cottage and campground guests to use.
Are golf carts allowed in the park?
Golf carts are permitted at the campground and on the roadways within James Island County Park. All golf cart drivers must have a valid driver’s license and insurance. Golf carts are not permitted on park trails, paved or unpaved. Campers with golf carts are not permitted to drive their golf carts into the overflow or primitive areas.
How late can I check-in?
Check-in is anytime after 1 p.m. for campsites and anytime after 4 p.m. for cottages. The registration office closes at 8 p.m., and a ranger will be on duty all night to assist with late check-ins. There is a call box at the front of the registration building for guests to use to call the ranger.
Boat Landings
Safety Awareness
- Please follow all South Carolina Department of Natural Resources boating regulations.
- Caution should be exercised at all public boat ramps. Tides, currents, and natural conditions can greatly affect usage of ramps at any time. Serious drop-offs may be present at low tide.
- Two boat landings, Shem Creek and WO Thomas, Jr, have a life preserver (PFD) loaner program. This service is provided by a private business, and PFD availability is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Please lock your vehicles and remove valuables from view. The Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission is not responsible for any lost, damaged or stolen property.
Selecting a Boat Landing
When choosing a boat landing, please be aware that the following boat landings generally have the highest traffic volume, especially on weekends and holidays:
- Folly Beach
- Wappoo Cut (West Ashley)
- Remley’s Point (Mount Pleasant)
- Shem Creek (Mount Pleasant)
- WO Thomas Jr. (North Charleston)
- Battery Island/Sol Legare (James Island)
- Riverland Terrace (James Island)
The following boat landings are not used as frequently as those listed above:
- Dawhoo Landing (Edisto Island)
- Steamboat (Edisto Island)
- Pierpoint on Church Creek, West Ashley
- Penny Creek, Willtown Area
- Gadsonville on the Copahee Sound, Mount Pleasant
- Paradise on the Wando River, Mount Pleasant
The following boat landings are suited more for canoes and kayaks; launching standard-sized or larger boats at these landings is not recommended:
- Penny Creek, Willtown Area
- Gadsonville on the Copahee Sound, Mount Pleasant
- Pierpoint, on Church Creek in West Ashley
- Willtown Bluff, Adams Run
Boat Landing Etiquette & Tips
- Boat and trailer maintenance should be done prior to your arrival at the landing.
- When arriving at a landing or preparing to launch, please be courteous of other boaters. Use the make-ready lanes to prepare your boat for launching. After launching, please move away from the ramp to allow other boaters to launch. If you need to tie off your boat after launching, please do not stay at the dock for an extended period of time.
- It is unlawful to utilize the parking spaces dedicated for vehicles with boat trailers for parking vehicles on weekends or holidays.
- Understand the rules and regulations of the water. South Carolina Department of Resources is a valuable resource.
- Before leaving the house, make sure you have everything you need for a great day on the water.
- Check your fuel levels.
- Make sure someone who is not going with you knows your plan.
- Make sure the boat is plugged before launching your boat.
- Practice makes perfect! Weekdays and after work are great times to work on boating skills.
- Vehicles should be locked and valuables removed from view. CCPRC is not responsible for any lost, damaged, or stolen property.
- Pack it in. Pack it out.
America's Waterway Watch
America's Waterway Watch, a combined effort of the Coast Guard and its Reserve and Auxiliary components, enlists the active participation of those who live, work, or play around America's waterfront areas.To report suspicious activity, please call the National Response Center at 877-249-2824. If there is immediate danger to life or property, Call 9-1-1, or call the Coast Guard on Marine Channel 16.
Cooper River Marina
Don't forget that the Cooper River Marina ships' store is there for all of your boating needs, clean restrooms, and cold beverages. Conveniently located two miles north of the Arthur Ravenel, Jr. Bridge and 15 minutes from historic downtown Charleston, the Cooper River Marina is a great facility for recreational and transient boaters.
Features
- Deep water slips: long-term up to 42-feet, LOA; transients up to 125-ft.
- No draft or height restrictions
- Easy harbor access
- 30 amp/120V service
- Floating concrete docks
- Shore side and slip side pump-out service
- Clean, climate-controlled captains lounge, laundry facilities, showers, and restrooms
- Ships store/convenience store
- Experienced staff
- Fax and email service, WiFi
- Competitive rates
- Ample free parking
- Docking assistance
- Up-to-the-minute local and national weather information
- Gated security
- Boat yard storage
- VHF Channel 16 monitoring
Pack It In, Pack It Out.
In an effort to keep the boat landings clean and safe for both humans and wildlife, we encourage a pack it in, pack it out program that to reduce impacts during their visit by remembering that what is brought to the boat landing should be removed from the boat landing at the end of each visit. Pack it in, pack it out is part of the Seven Principles of the Leave No Trace program. The principles provide guidance to enjoy our natural world in a sustainable way that avoids human-created impacts.
Holiday Festival of Lights
Is the festival open on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
Yes! The festival is open 5:30 – 10:00 pm on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Where do I park to explore the attractions in Santa’s Village?
All parking lots for Santa’s Village are accessible from the left driving lane. Each parking lot offers easy access to all of the attractions. While in Santa’s Village, please keep a safe distance from and do not touch the light displays or decorations. Also, note parking is only allowed in designated areas – do not stop or get out of your car on the driving tour.
Can I bring my own marshmallows and roasting sticks for the marshmallow roaster?
Visitors are welcome to bring their own marshmallows and sticks for roasting. Please do not take branches from trees to use as marshmallow sticks. Destruction of natural resources in the park is prohibited.
Do you have an ATM available?
There is not an ATM located onsite, however credit cards are accepted at most locations.
How can I purchase tickets to the Holiday Festival of Lights?
Tickets may be purchased online in advance or at the gate. Visit the ticketing page for details.
Will I be able to visit with Santa?
Santa Claus is most definitely coming to town! Visits with Santa will be available on a first-come, first-served basis at the festival and during the day at the appointment-only Mingle with Kringle and Inclusive Visit with Santa.
How many times may I drive through?
You are welcome to drive around the light show as many times as you would like! Our visitors always spot something new on each trip.
May I walk or ride my bike around the festival?
For your safety, bicycles and pedestrians are not allowed entrance into the Holiday Festival of Lights. Bicycles are not allowed at anytime during festival hours; this includes Campground visitors. Also, note parking is only allowed in designated areas – do not stop or get our your car on the driving tour.
Are the gift shops open during the day?
Shops are open during festival hours, 5:30- 10 p.m. Outside of regular festival hours, the gift shops will be open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on December 6, 7, 13, and 14.
Are there alternate routes to try to avoid the traffic?
Visit our Directions page to learn more about the best routes to take to the park and on what dates you’ll find the heaviest traffic.
Which nights are less busy?
To enhance the visitor experience and to help manage wait times, the Holiday Festival of Lights used historical attendance data to create Green, Yellow and Red nights based on traffic. Admission prices vary based on the night, and guests can save money by purchasing their tickets online in advance. For more information see our festival admission page.
I'd like to bring my group out to the festival. Who should I call?
We ask that tour buses call ahead with the park office at 843-406-6990 so that we can prepare for your arrival.
Do you rent wheelchairs?
The Holiday Festival of Lights is a three-mile driving tour with a self-guided walking portion to see more lights and other amenities. A wheelchair is available to check out at the park office free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. Please call the park office at 843-406-6990 or ask a staff member for assistance.
How do I buy tickets for the train at the Holiday Festival of Lights?
Train tickets must be purchased at the train depot for $5 per person. Children two & under may ride for free if sitting in the lap of an adult. No food, drinks, or pets are allowed on the train. The train runs nightly from 6–10 p.m. Ticket sales end at 9:40 p.m.
How do I buy tickets for the carousel at the Holiday Festival of Lights?
The carousel runs nightly starting at 6 p.m. Each ride is $2 (2 tickets) per person. Children under 42" must be accompanied by an adult. Adults may stand on the ride for free when accompanying a child under 42". Tickets can be purchased at any location inside the festival and sales end at 9:40 p.m.
How can I buy tickets to climb the climbing wall at the Holiday Festival of Lights?
Two climbs are $4 (four tickets). The wall is open nightly from 6- 10 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at any location inside the festival and sales end at 9:40 p.m.
What forms of payment do you accept?
Cash and credit cards are accepted for admission, shopping and concessions. You may also purchase advance admission online.
Wannamaker North Trail
Are restrooms available?
Public restrooms are available at Wannamaker County Park.
Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Dogs are allowed, but must remain leashed at all times.
What is the "Pack It In, Pack It Out" rule?
If you pack it in, pack it out. Pack out all trash, leftover food, and litter.
Where do I park?
Parking is available on-site near the trail, and vehicles must park in the designated area.
When might the trail be closed?
Riding or hiking on a wet trail will cause damage to the trail surface that results in erosion and widening. The Wannamaker North Trail is closed when heavy/excessive rain has resulted in fragile trail conditions so that the trail has time to dry out.
Team Charleston Climbing
What are competitions like?
All climbers, including adults, youth, new climbers, and veteran climbers are invited to attend competitions. Generally, climbers get to choose what climbs they want to do. Each climb is worth a point value. The harder the climb, the greater the point value. Standings are based on points accumulated in a given amount of time, based on their five highest value climbs. Competitions are usually one-day events held on weekends. Past competitions for our Southeast Region have been in Charlotte, NC; Raleigh, NC; Jacksonville, FL; and August, GA.
Can my child climb at The Wall outside of practice hours?
Part of their membership on the competitive teams entitles them to an Annual membership at The Climbing Wall. They may come in to climb whenever they like. Club members will need to pay for visits outside of scheduled practice times. Regardless of membership status, the minimum age for belaying at The Climbing Wall without an instructor is 14.
How do I register my child?
The Recreational Club is available for online registration on a first-come, first-served basis. The Competitive Program requires a climber tryout prior to enrollment.
How many children are on a team?
Each team is limited to 12 members in order to ensure that adequate supervision and high quality instruction is provided. Club level programs often fill well in advance, so act early for best availability. Team level programs require a climber interview.
Nature & History Programs for Other Groups
How do I arrange a program?
Start by reviewing programs before completing a preliminary booking and information form. The program coordinator will review the form and contact you to discuss your needs. At that time, we will help you through the steps needed to confirm the date.
Which parks have group programs?
Our interpretation staff will meet you at nearly any county park. In some cases, they will come to your facility. Information about which parks are used for specific programs is listed under program descriptions.
At the park, are there bathrooms? Picnic areas? Bus parking?
County parks are designed to accommodate groups of all sizes and have bathrooms, picnic areas, and bus parking. Depending on the park, there may also be other amenities like food, drinks, outdoor showers, etc. When the coordinator contacts you as a result of the preliminary booking and information form, we will answer any logistical questions you may have about a specific park.
Can I bring multiple groups on one day?
Yes. Often the groups enjoy several programs in a “round robin” format with groups rotating through several programmers.
How many people can be in one program?
To keep the quality of the program high, we require a group size of no more than 25 people.
If I am bringing a group of children, do you require chaperones?
We require a 1:10 ratio of chaperone to children so for a group of 25, there would be 2 to 3 chaperones. We have found 2-3 chaperones is optimal as long as the chaperones are involved and understand their roles.
Skate Park
Why are BMX bikes only allowed on Tuesdays?
BMX bikes are allowed at SK8 Charleston because this is an underserved group of people with no place to ride. BMX bikes are ONLY allowed on Tuesday because this is a much smaller population of riders than skateboarders.
Why are skateboards, in-line skates, and quads not allowed on Tuesdays?
Skateboards, in-line skates, and quads are not allowed on Tuesday for safety purposes. Skaters and BMX bike riders approach obstacles differently and have totally different lines. Separating the two groups will prevent collisions between riders and skaters.
What are the rules regarding pads and helmets?
Pads are recommended, and helmets are required. This park is entirely concrete and contains a number of skate obstacles designed for advanced ability levels. If you’re not falling, then you’re not charging hard enough!
My kids want to learn to skate, but I don’t know how and can’t teach them. Are there any resources out there?
In addition to local skate shops being a great resource, we are offering lessons at SK8 Charleston. See our lessons webpage for more details.
Why do I have to pay an admission fee?
The county park’s business model is that we charge individual users a fee for our various parks and attractions. By charging a fee, we are able to decrease our reliance on tax dollars while offering nice facilities and amenities. The fee allows us to operate and maintain our parks, restrooms, furnishings, lights, etc.
Fishing Spots
Safety Awareness
- Please follow all South Carolina Department of Natural Resources fishing regulations.
- Caution should be exercised at all public fishing locations. Tides, currents, and natural conditions can greatly affect usage of these areas at any time.
Gold Pass Members
How many membership cards can I have?
You will only be given one membership card. A second card would require a second Gold Pass membership to be purchased. Gold Pass cards must be present to be used for entry. Receipt of purchase or digital photos of your card will not be accepted. If you have lost your card, please contact Park & Program Services at 843-795-4386 or visit your nearest park office to replace it. There is a $5 replacement fee.
By downloading the Charleston County Parks membership and programs app, you may present your Gold Pass on your phone to be scanned.
Is there a Gold Pass App?
Gold Pass members can use their phones as their membership card at park entrances with the Charleston County Parks app. On the app, you can also see a schedule of your upcoming and past registered activities and book your next adventure. Whether you're heading to the park for a day of fun or joining one of our programs, you’ll have easy access to your cards, registrations, and notifications —all at your fingertips. It’s simple to get started. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play to download the app., sign in, and you’re ready to go!
What happens if I lose my card?
Once reported as lost, your membership card will be deactivated, and you will need to receive a new card. Please contact Park & Program Services (843-795-4386 or email) or visit your nearest park office to replace it. There is a $5 replacement fee.
What is the difference between an Individual membership and a Gold Pass membership?
The Individual Pass is a non-transferable picture ID valid for walking, biking, and driving into select Charleston County Parks. The Gold Pass offers admission per vehicle to additional parks and facilities and select special events.
How will the charge appear on my credit card when I purchase or renew my Gold Pass?
ACT*CharlestonCoParks
Will my membership auto-renew every year?
You were asked during the original purchase process if you would like your pass to auto-renew. If you checked "yes," the credit card you used in your initial purchase will be charged when your membership term ends and it is time for renewal. You will not need to receive a new membership card.
How can I cancel my membership?
If you need to cancel your membership, please call Park & Program Services 843-795-4386.
Can a family member use my pass if I’m not in the car?
The Gold Pass is transferable between vehicles and members in your household. The primary purchaser does not need to be present.
How do I get my ticket(s) or register for one of the events that allows Gold Pass members into for free?
Gold Pass members do not need to go online for advance tickets; just bring your Gold Pass with you to the event entrance to be scanned. Gold Pass must be present for admission; receipt of purchase will not be accepted. Gold Passes will not be sold on-site at events.
How do I get my membership card after I purchase it?
If you purchase your membership in one of our park offices, you will be given your card at that time.
If you purchase your pass online, you will be given an option to have us send a new membership card, renew to your existing card, or pick up a new card at a park office. Please allow 5-7 business days for your membership to be processed.
If you are renewing your membership, you may keep your existing card. If you ask for a new card to be sent, your existing card will be deactivated.
Does my Gold Pass membership give me free admission into the State parks?
No, Gold Pass membership benefits are only valid at parks and facilities offered by the Charleston County Park & Recreation Commission. You can find more information on the parks and facilities managed by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism by visiting their website.
Do Gold Pass members get discounts on campsite or shelter rentals or program registration?
No. Gold Pass membership benefits do not include rental or reservation discounts or program registration discounts.
Do you offer Military or disabled person discounts?
No, we offer Charleston County resident and Senior 60+ discounts only.
Can I renew my pass online?
Yes. Login to your account to renew your pass or to see when the pass is up for renewal.
If you are renewing your membership, you may keep your existing card. If you ask for a new card to be sent, your existing card will be deactivated.
If you have changed your email address, you will not be able to log in with your new email address. Please call Park & Program Services at 843-795-4386 to update your account.