Recreation

If you're looking for outdoor adventure, look no further. Dorchester County's recreation opportunities are limitless, offering coastline appeal, community parks, as well as state parks and forests – all providing an ideal backdrop for swimming, community events, bird watching, and exploring.

Parks

With more than twenty parks and playgrounds in Dorchester County, each with their own charm,  you will likely have a difficult time picking a favorite. Explore them all!

Azalea Park

Located in Summerville, the gardens of Azalea Park put on a spectacular display of flowers every spring.

Rosebrock Park

Rosebrock Park stretches 76 acres along the Ashley River and is one of Dorchester County’s most prized natural landscapes.
Hutchinson Square

Hutchinson Square is a community park shaded by oak trees and bordered by shops and eateries.
Gahagan Park

Gahagan Park's 37 acres include four lighted ball fields, a computerized scoreboard, and picnic and restroom facilities.

Givhans Ferry State Park

Givhans Ferry State Park borders the Edisto River, and is situated at the end of the Edisto River Canoe and Kayak Trail
Sawmill Branch Bike Trail

A paved, 6.5-mile route, the Sawmill Branch Bike Trail is great for walking or cycling with minimal road crossings.
Francis Marion National Forest

One of the Southeast's leading wildlife reserves
Francis Beidler Forest

Located near Harleyville, the Francis Beidler Forest promotes the conservation of birds and bird habitats.

Recreation

There’s no shortage of outdoor recreation options in Dorchester County. From beaches to lakes and parks to state forests, there’s a little something for everyone to explore and enjoy.

Edisto River Treehouses

World-class treehouses are nestled among the largest, private wildlife refuge on the Edisto River in Dorchester County.
Edisto River Adventures

Located in Ridgeville, Edisto River Adventures offers a variety of kayaking excursions for the nature lover.

Beaches & Island Communities

As a Lowcountry county, Dorchester has the advantage of an East Coast location that affords easy access to the region's beautiful beaches.
Lakes

Local golf clubs include Coosaw Creek Country Club, Miler Country Club, Pine Forest Country Club, and Legend Oaks.
Jessen Boat Landing

Jessen Boat Landing, a two-lane public boat ramp, offers a tranquil place for fishing and picnicking.

YMCA

Dorchester County has three YMCA locations to serve local residents – each offering very distinct facilities and fitness programs.

Golf

Local golf clubs include Coosaw Creek Country Club, Miler Country Club, Pine Forest Country Club, and Legend Oaks.

History

It’s been said that Dorchester County is shaped roughly like a bow tie, which is perfectly appropriate for an area where bow ties continue to be in fashion.  Although one of the youngest of the state’s counties, our history is rich and storied. Dorchester County was established by the General Assembly in 1897. Our name was derived from a colonial town founded on the bank of the Ashley River by a group originally from Dorchester, Massachusetts.  From expansive rice plantations to a well-known railroad resort destination, Dorchester County has shown its ability to adapt to the times and needs of its citizens.

Summerville Dorchester Museum

In addition to showcasing relics from the area's past, the museum also offers various educational programs and activities
Drayton Hall

Located on the Ashley River, Drayton Hall is the oldest preserved plantation house in the U.S. open to public tours.

Magnolia Plantations

A 17th century estate with a Pre-Revolutionary War plantation house and one of the nation's oldest gardens.
Middleton Place

An 18th century plantation with one of the country's oldest landscaped gardens and is a National Historic Landmark.
Colonial Dorchester Site

Located on the Ashley River, Colonial Dorchester Site is an archaeological site with the remains of the Colonial-era village.
Campmeetings

Campmeetings are annual, old-fashioned revivals where parishioners can enjoy wonderful food and fellowship.

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