September 2024 Events with Charleston County Parks
Sunrise Yoga
Saturday, Sept. 7, 7 – 8 a.m.
Beachwalker County Park
Stretch your body, awaken your mind, and fuel your spirit in this uplifting, intention-setting yoga class to enhance your day ahead. Inclusive and open to all abilities and fitness levels.
Fee: $10 in advance; $12 at the event
Ages: 12 and up
https://ccprc.com/3634/Sunrise-Yoga14218
Dog Day Afternoon: Whirlin’ Waters
Sunday, Sept. 8, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Whirlin’ Waters at Wannamaker County Park
This event is expected to sell out, so sign up today! It’s your dogs’ turn to cool off and enjoy Whirlin’ Waters for a day at the end of the summer. Select water attractions will open to cool down dogs from the summer heat; owners and children should not enter the water past knee depth. Concessions will be available for purchase on-site. Be sure to bring a collar, leash, waste bags, and verify vaccinations are up to date. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com or call (843) 795-4386 for more information.
Two sessions will be offered: 10 a.m.-12 p.m. (SOLD OUT) and 1-3 p.m.
https://ccprc.com/1182/Dog-Day-Afternoon
Fee: $15 in advance; $20 at the event if not sold out
Ages: any
Starlight Yoga
Thursday, Sept. 12, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
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: 12 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/2079/Starlight-Yoga14215
Dancing on the Cooper – The Cooper River Band
Friday, Sept. 13, 7 – 10 p.m.
Mount Pleasant Pier
Enjoy scenic views of the Charleston Harbor while dancing to live music from The Cooper River Band! Live music starts at 7 p.m.
Fee: $10 in advance; $15 at the event if not sold out
Ages: 4 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/1175/Dancing-on-the-Cooper
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Sept. 14, 7 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: $10 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
Boardr Series skateboarding competition
Friday, Sept. 13, 6 – 8 p.m., and Saturday, Sept. 14, 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.
Registration: $50
Moonlight Mixer
Friday, Sept. 20, 7 – 10 p.m.
Folly Beach Pier
Moonlight Mixers are back on the Folly Beach Pier! Dance the night away with DJ Bill Shelton spinning all the hottest oldies and beach music classics!
Fee: $10 in advance; $15 at the event
Ages: 4 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/1618/Moonlight-Mixers
Cast Off Fishing Tournament
Saturday, Sept. 21, 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: $10 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
Birds of a Feather
Saturday, Sept. 28, 5 – 7 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Birds of a Feather is the perfect new happy hour event for nature enthusiasts and social butterflies! So spread your wings and join us for an evening of live music, cold beverages, and good company.
Fee: $20 in advance; $25 day-of
Ages: 21 and up
https://ccprc.com/3756/Birds-of-a-Feather15419
Climbing Technique Essentials
Sunday, Sept. 1, 12:30 – 2 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
Embark on an exhilarating journey at our “Beginners Night” at The Climbing Wall. This event is tailored for those stepping into the climbing world for the first time, promising an evening of excitement and shared experiences. Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the essentials, from harnessing up to conquering your first climbing challenges. The atmosphere will buzz with positive energy as you connect with fellow beginners, creating memories and building confidence together. Join us for a night filled with laughter, encouragement, and the joy of discovering the thrill of climbing. It’s not just an introduction; it’s a vibrant and welcoming kickoff to your climbing journey. Registration includes harness and shoe rental.
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
Belay Basics
Sunday, Sept. 1, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Learn the ropes with our “Belay Basics” class, a comprehensive guide to the essential skill of top rope belaying in rock climbing. In this hands-on session, our experienced instructors will walk you through the fundamentals of belaying techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols. Whether you’re a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to securely manage the rope for your climbing partner. Join us for a practical and engaging session, where you’ll master the art of belaying, enhancing your climbing experience for you and your partner. Gear up and get ready to elevate your climbing skills!
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
Lowcountry Senior Series: Archery
Tuesday, Sept. 3, 1 – 3 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
In partnership with the Lowcountry Senior Center, this program empowers adults 50+ to continue to explore, discover, and grow. Come out and fling some arrows! We’ll start with the basics of archery, and you’ll soon find that inner child as you start hitting those bull’s-eyes.
Fee: $20
Ages: 50 and up.
Let’s Talk Hawks!
Thursday, Sept. 5, 1 – 3 p.m.
Johns Island County Park – Trailhead
Introduce yourself to some of the common raptors of coastal South Carolina and get acquainted with the specific attributes that make them unique. Learn tips on how to identify these birds in flight as you expand your skills as a hawk-watcher during fall migration. What to expect: Accessible parking is available at the park office and an accessible restroom is available in the meadow. There is no accessible route to the restroom building. All trails are natural and unpaved, and the program walk will be less than a mile. Program speed is moderately slow and requires periods of standing. Benches are available at park site.
Fee: $10
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Beginners Night
Thursday, Sept. 5, 5 – 7 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
Embark on an exhilarating journey at our “Beginners Night” at The Climbing Wall. This event is tailored for those stepping into the climbing world for the first time, promising an evening of excitement and shared experiences. Our friendly and knowledgeable instructors will guide you through the essentials, from harnessing up to conquering your first climbing challenges. The atmosphere will buzz with positive energy as you connect with fellow beginners, creating memories and building confidence together. Join us for a night filled with laughter, encouragement, and the joy of discovering the thrill of climbing. It’s not just an introduction; it’s a vibrant and welcoming kickoff to your climbing journey. Registration includes harness and shoe rental.
Fee: $15
Ages: 18 and up.
Wee Wild Ones: Bring On the Bugs
Friday, Sept. 6, 10 – 11 a.m.
Wannamaker County Park – Cottonwood
Young children will channel their inner explorers while enjoying nature through hands-on activities, games, music, and art. Learn about insects and what makes them special. We’ll “build a bug” and create art to take home. Ages 18 months to 6 years. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com for information on accessibility and what to expect during this program.
Fee: $10
Ages: 1.5 – 6 years
Essentials of Kayaking
Saturday, Sept. 7, 2 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Discover the joy of embracing a new sport with ease and pleasure. Dive into our entry-level course, where you’ll explore a diverse range of boats and acquire fundamental techniques and strokes, enabling you to relish your time on the water with absolute enjoyment!
Fee: $50
Ages: 16 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Essentials of Stand-Up Paddleboard (SUP)
Saturday, Sept. 7, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Embark on an exciting and laid-back journey with our engaging class, designed to introduce you to the world of Paddlesports. Discover essential skills and techniques, enabling you to advance at a pace that suits you best while focusing on safe practices essential for an enjoyable experience.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/3220/Learn-To-SUP
Basic Climbing Rescues
Sunday, Sept. 8, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
When things don’t go according to plan, have the skills and confidence to get you and your partner out of trouble. This class will cover basic climbing rescues for a top rope scenario.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up.
Lead Climbing Essentials
Sunday, Sept. 8, 1 – 4 p.m.
James Island County Park – Climbing Wall at Outdoor Zone
Embark on the next level of climbing mastery with our “Lead Climbing Essentials” class, tailored for those ready to elevate their skills and conquer new heights. This dynamic course delves into the intricacies of lead climbing, focusing on advanced techniques, risk management, and mental resilience. Our expert instructors will guide you through the fundamentals of clipping, rope management, and route reading, preparing you to take the lead on both indoor and outdoor climbs. Join a community of aspiring lead climbers, push your boundaries, and experience the exhilaration of ascending vertical challenges with confidence. Gear up for a transformative journey into the world of lead climbing? where each ascent becomes a personal triumph! To gain the most knowledge from this class, you should be able to climb a 5.9 route.
Fee: $40
Ages: 14 and up
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Lowcountry Senior Series: Archery
Tuesday, Sept. 10, 1 – 3 p.m.
Schroder Community Center – Multipurpose Field
In partnership with the Lowcountry Senior Center, this program empowers adults 50+ to continue to explore, discover, and grow. Come out and fling some arrows! We’ll start with the basics of archery, and you’ll soon find that inner child as you start hitting those bull’s-eyes.
Fee: $20
Ages: 50 and up.
Dock Discovery
Thursday, Sept. 12, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
James Island County Park – Crabbing/Fishing Dock
Join one of our naturalists at the fishing dock at James Island County Park. We’ll explore the marsh edges, the organisms that live underwater on the dock itself, and even microscopic plankton that drift their way down the creek. A net especially designed to trap tiny planktonic organisms will be used and microscopes will be set up at an indoor location to allow us to view this seldom seen world. What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. A portion of this program will take place in the salt marsh on a dock. Periods of walking and observing nature are part of this program. The program’s walking pace will be slow to moderate, and the trails are paved surfaces. Tables for sitting will be available where the second half of program takes place.
Fee: $9
Ages: 12 and up.
Lighthouse Inlet Bird Walk
Friday, Sept. 13, 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. Visit charlestoncountyparks.com for information on accessibility and what to expect during this program.
Fee: $9
Ages 12 and up (chaperone required for ages 15 and under)
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Seashore Exploration
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Beachwalker Park
Fall is a great time to explore the beach, and a trained naturalist will help familiarize you with several species who may be found here. Share in the discovery by learning intriguing stories about adaptations that allow for life near the ocean. 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.
Fee: $10
Ages: 9 and up
Junior Naturalist: Animal Trackers and Graduation
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Bring your curiosity and engage all of your senses while exploring natural habitats at your county parks! Led by Charleston County Park’s Education staff, the multi-seasonal Junior Naturalist program series offers a wide variety of fun and educational nature-based activities focused around a central theme. Children who attend 8 classes earn the title of a Certified Junior Naturalist! Brush up on your investigative skills as we learn about tracks, nests, and other animal signs through hands-on exploration. Emphasis will be placed on animals native to Caw Caw Interpretive Center. After the program, celebrate this year’s Junior Naturalists class in a graduation ceremony. All participants and family members are welcome to attend. 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. The park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. The program route is a loop, and benches are available along the trail route. The program speed is moderately slow to medium.
Fee: $7
Ages: 8 – 12 years
Intro to Archery
Saturday, Sept. 14, 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)
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Essentials of Kayaking
Saturday, Sept. 14, 2 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Discover the joy of embracing a new sport with ease and pleasure. Dive into our entry-level course, where you’ll explore a diverse range of boats and acquire fundamental techniques and strokes, enabling you to relish your time on the water with absolute enjoyment!
Fee: $50
Ages: 16 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Understanding the Rice Culture
Saturday, Sept. 14, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
To talk about land in the Lowcountry is an automatic invite to talk about rice, who grew it, where it came from, and how the cultivation changed the landscape in ways that are still evident today. Caw Caw Interpretive Center provides one of the best local looks in the Lowcountry. What to expect: Accessible parking, restrooms, water fountains, and picnic tables are available at the Welcome Center where the program begins and ends. The park includes natural, unpaved trails that are mostly flat. The program route is a loop, and benches are available along the trail route. The program speed is moderately slow and includes periods of standing.
Fee: $10
Ages: 16 and up
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Family Archery
Saturday, Sept. 14, 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)
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Belay Basics
Sunday, Sept. 15, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone
Learn the ropes with our “Belay Basics” class, a comprehensive guide to the essential skill of top rope belaying in rock climbing. In this hands-on session, our experienced instructors will walk you through the fundamentals of belaying techniques, equipment usage, and safety protocols. Whether you’re a novice or looking to refresh your skills, this class is designed to empower you with the knowledge and confidence to securely manage the rope for your climbing partner. Join us for a practical and engaging session, where you’ll master the art of belaying, enhancing your climbing experience for you and your partner. Gear up and get ready to elevate your climbing skills!
Fee: $25
Ages: 14 and up.
Dawn Patrol Adult SUP Surf Camp
Tuesday, Sept. 17 – Friday Sept. 20, 6:30 – 8 a.m.
Folly River Boat Landing at Off-Site Location
Greet the mornings with a surf session led by a certified instructor. Hone your skills and appreciation for the sport and culture over the course of a week. But be careful, this could be habit forming!
Fee: $175
Ages: 16 and up
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Essentials of Kayaking for Seniors 50+
Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Designed for those not looking to slow down, this program is for those 50 and over. Explore and learn new activities through kayaking on the James Island County Park lake to keep you young at heart. We will cover the essentials of kayaking including basic rescues to increase your sense of independence and meet others with similar interests. https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Fee: $50
Ages: 50 and up
Seashore Exploration
Thursday, Sept. 19, 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Folly Beach County Park – Dunes House
Fall is a great time to explore the beach, and a trained naturalist will help familiarize you with several species who may be found here. 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: $10
Ages: 9 and up
Drop-In Dawn Patrol
Friday, Sept. 20, 6:30 – 8:00 a.m.
Folly Beach County Park
Alumni of SUP Dawn Patrol, treat yourself to some fun by dropping into some waves. Extend your journey from previous sessions with this open session format. Hone your skills and meet others that will give you the confidence to continue catching waves and grow as a SUP surfer.
Fee: $40
Ages: 16 and up
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Mystical Moths
Friday, Sept. 20, 7 – 8:30 p.m.
Caw Caw Interpretive Center
Extraordinarily diverse in color, shape, and size – moths not only pollinate plants, but feed birds, bats, and even people. We will examine our black lights and baits to see what species we can discover! What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, accessible water fountains, and accessible picnic tables are available at this location. The trails are unpaved and unlit, and benches are available along the trail route. The program speed is moderately slow.
Fee: $10
Ages: 12 and up
Homeschool in the Parks: Marvelous Marine Mammals
Friday, Sept. 20, 10 – 11:30 a.m.
Beachwalker County Park
Join us at the beach and learn about the importance of marine mammals to ocean ecosystems. We will discuss what makes this group of animals unique among mammals while attempting to spot a local favorite, the Bottlenose dolphin. What to expect: Accessible parking is available and 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.
Fee: $ 7
Ages: 7 – 12 years
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Adaptive Climbing Day
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
We are so excited to bring adaptive climbing to The Climbing Wall at James Island County Park and will launch this new program with a special event on Saturday, Sept. 21. Whether you have climbed before or are looking to learn, this FREE adaptive climbing clinic is an opportunity for anyone with a disability to climb within a supportive and fun environment! Food and refreshments are provided by Catalyst Sports. If you would like to volunteer for this program, please contact us. Volunteers must complete a two-part training. Part one is online and will be sent to you after registering. Part two is a mandatory in person training on Friday Sept. 20th, 6pm – 8pm at the Climbing Wall. This event is free, but you must register to climb or volunteer using the link below in addition to here https://www.catalystsports.org/charleston-kick-off. For more information, please contact the Climbing Wall Manager at robert.lavarnway@ccprc.com.
Fee: $ FREE
Ages: 6 and up.
Essentials of Kayaking
Saturday, Sept. 21, 2 – 5 p.m.
James Island County Park – Boat Launch
Discover the joy of embracing a new sport with ease and pleasure. Dive into our entry-level course, where you’ll explore a diverse range of boats and acquire fundamental techniques and strokes, enabling you to relish your time on the water with absolute enjoyment!
Fee: $50
Ages: 16 and up
https://www.ccprc.com/107/Paddlesports
Dragon Boat in the Park for Seniors 50+
James Island County Park – Park Center Boat House
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 9 – 10:30 AM
Experience dragon boating on James Island County Park lake. Come with friends or meet others for this unique paddling experience. No experience necessary.
Fee: $40.00
Ages: 50 and up
Gator Tales
James Island County Park – Park Center Terrace
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 10 a.m. – 12 p.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”. “What to expect: Accessible parking, accessible restrooms, and accessible water fountains are available at this park. The trails are paved and flat and the program speed is moderate to slow. Benches are located along the program route.
Fee: $10 Ages: 12 and up.
Advanced Climbing Systems
Sunday, Sept. 29, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
James Island County Park – Outdoor Zone / Climbing Wall
This course is designed for climbers eager to learn or refine their skills in tackling longer routes and more complex terrain. Throughout the course, you’ll cover essential techniques such as rope management, belaying on multi-pitch climbs, anchor building, and efficient communication strategies. Our experienced instructors will provide hands-on instruction in a supportive environment, focusing on safety and skill development. Whether you’re aiming to conquer the next level of climbing or enhance your existing abilities, this course will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to explore vertical adventures with proficiency.
Fee: $ 40
Ages: 6 and up.
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