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22 Fun Things to Do in Berkeley County

April 21, 2025

PICTURED: Visitors paddle through the swamp at Cypress Gardens in Moncks Corner. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – Berkeley County is where the Lowcountry gets wild, but in the best way. Tucked just north of Charleston, this place is dripping with Southern charm, outdoor adventure, and small-town surprises that fly way too under the radar.

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If you’ve only ever driven through Moncks Corner, consider this your sign to make a whole day or weekend out of exploring everything Berkeley County has to offer.

Let’s break down 22 things that are totally worth the gas money.

1. Paddle Through the Swamp at Cypress Gardens

Located just outside Moncks Corner, Cypress Gardens is a must. Rent a boat and float past towering cypress trees, lily pads, and — yes — the occasional gator. Fun fact: this is where they filmed The Notebook‘s iconic rowboat scene. Plus, there’s a butterfly house, aquarium, and walking trails. It’s basically a nature-lover’s dream.

PICTURED: Statue located on the grounds of Mepkin Abbey. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

2. Clear Your Mind at Mepkin Abbey

The Trappist monks of Mepkin Abbey live in peaceful solitude — and lucky for us, they open their stunning grounds to visitors. Wander through the serene gardens, visit the columbarium, and stop by the gift shop to buy snacks, religious art, and handcrafted items.

PICTURED: At 47 miles, the Swamp Fox Passage is the longest section of the cross-state Palmetto Trail. The passage traverses four distinct ecosystems through Francis Marion National Forest, including swamps made famous as hideouts of Revolutionary War hero Francis Marion. (CREDIT: Swamp Fox Passage Reclamation Project)

3. Hike the Swamp Fox Passage of the Palmetto Trail

This section of the Palmetto Trail runs through the Francis Marion National Forest, offering miles of peaceful, wooded trails perfect for hiking or biking. If you’re into birdwatching or looking for that quiet, off-grid feel without actually leaving civilization — this is your spot. Click here for a printable guide and vicinity map.

PICTURED: A toddler walks along a nature trail at Old Santee Canal Park. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

4. Walk Through History at Old Santee Canal Park

Take a walk through time at Old Santee Canal Park, home to one of the first canals in America. Explore the interpretive center, boardwalks, and nature trails. There’s even a boardwalk over the Cooper River where you can spot herons, turtles, and maybe even an eagle or two.

PICTURED: A portion of Lake Moultrie in Bonneau Beach in Berkeley County, SC (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

5. Boat or Jet Ski on Lake Moultrie

Lake Moultrie is massive, and whether you’re into fishing, tubing, or just cruising with a cold drink, it’s a go-to destination. Launch your boat from Short Stay, Canal Lakes Fish Camp, or Tailrace Canal, and soak up the sun.

PICTURED: Music Man’s BBQ is located in the heart of downtown Moncks Corner on East Main Street and serves a delicious buffet-style menu with rice, hash, mac & cheese, green beans, fried chicken, baked chicken and much more! (CREDIT: Music Man’s BBQ/Facebook)

6. Feast at Music Man’s BBQ

In Moncks Corner, Music Man’s BBQ serves up whole hog barbecue with all the fixin’s. Their mustard-based sauce is Lowcountry gold, and the vibe is exactly what you’d hope for — laid back and full of flavor. Oh, yeah…they have vinegar-based, barbeque, too.

Pictured: Come check out East Main Street in Moncks Corner, the heart of the town. (CREDIT: Google Maps)

7. Shop Around Downtown Moncks Corner

Downtown Moncks Corner is full of charming, affordable stores like Barron’s Department Store, Collector’s Corner Antiques, Simply Charleston Boutique, Berkeley Boutique, CLM Resale Store, and more! Grab a cup of coffee at Howard’s Restaurant, then hit the shops. Trust us — it’s worth more than a quick drive-by. Once you’re done, relax or snap a quick photo at beautiful Unity Park.

PICTURED: Visitors pet one of the horses at R&R Acres. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

8. Experience Farm Life at R&R Acres

Nestled in the heart of Jamestown, R&R Acres is a family-owned apiary and homestead that offers a delightful mix of agriculture and agritourism. Visitors can explore a variety of farm animals, including dairy goats, emus, peacocks, and tortoises, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.

PICTURED: This museum, which is located inside Old Santee Canal Park, tells the history of Berkeley County, SC. (CREDIT: Berkeley Museum and Heritage Center)

9. Learn Something New at the Berkeley County Museum

Located inside Old Santee Canal Park, this museum dives deep into local history — from Native American culture and colonial trade to Berkeley’s unique role in the Civil War and Santee Cooper development.

PICTURED: The Francis Marion National Forest is contained entirely in the Charleston and Berkeley counties and is 263,904 acres in size. (CREDIT: Wikimedia Commons/Daniel Barcelona)

10. Get Lost in the Francis Marion National Forest

Drive out to Huger or Jamestown for hiking, hunting, camping, or just some good old-fashioned forest therapy. You might not see another person for hours — and that’s kind of the point. (NOTE: Make sure you don’t speed in Jamestown. It is a notorious speed trap!)

PICTURED: Originally settled by Huguenot refugees from France in the 17th century, Jamestown was established as St. James Santee in 1706. (CREDIT: Wikimedia Commons/Ammodramus)

11. Cruise the Backroads with the Windows Down

There’s something magical about driving the rural, winding roads through Cross, Lebanon, and Jamestown — Spanish moss dripping from the trees, gospel radio or country hits playing, and nothing but time.

PICTURED: Debra’s Playground at Central Creek Park in Goose Creek. (CREDIT: City of Goose Creek)

12. Have a Blast at Central Creek Park

If you’re looking for a standout playground experience in Goose Creek, Debra’s Playground at Central Creek Park is a must-visit. This expansive, 26,145-square-foot play area is designed with inclusivity in mind, ensuring children of all abilities can enjoy the fun. Beyond the playground, Central Creek Park offers a variety of amenities, including pickleball courts, sand volleyball courts, walking trails, and a splash pad. The park also hosts events at its amphitheater and provides spaces for community gatherings.

PICTURED: A figure-eight motorcycle and OHV trail, this sandy course winds through fragrant pine woods with shimmering hardwoods in the understory. Along the way riders can glimpse vernal ponds with bald cypress as well as turkeys and white-tailed deer. (CREDIT: U.S. Forest Service)

13. Ride the Wambaw Cycle Trail in Huger

If you’re into mud-splattered fun and the kind of adrenaline rush you can’t find on a treadmill, the Wambaw Cycle Trail in Huger is calling your name. Tucked inside the Francis Marion National Forest, this off-road haven features 40 miles of sandy, pine-lined trail loops built for motorcycles and off-highway vehicles under 50 inches wide. Translation: it’s you, your ride, and miles of forest-fueled freedom.

PICTURED: Biggin Church was used through the mid-nineteenth century and the surrounding cemetery is still being used. During the American Revolution, ammunitions were stored in the church by British troops who, upon leaving, set the church on fire. (CREDIT: South Carolina Department of Archives and History)

14. Step Back in Time at the Biggin Church Ruins in Moncks Corner

Originally constructed around 1711 and rebuilt in 1761, this parish church has endured multiple fires, including one set by British troops during the Revolutionary War. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a quiet place to connect with the past, the Biggin Church Ruins are a must-visit landmark in Berkeley County.

PICTURED: Enjoy delicious strawberries at this locally-owned farm. (CREDIT: Wabi Sabi Farm/Facebook)

15. Pick Your Own Strawberries at Wabi Sabi Farm in Cordesville

Tucked away in the serene countryside of Cordesville, Wabi Sabi Farm offers a delightful U-pick strawberry experience that’s perfect for families and nature enthusiasts alike. Visitors can stroll through lush fields, hand-picking ripe strawberries while soaking in the tranquil surroundings.

PICTURED: Francis Marion’s tomb is situated at the former Belle Isle Plantation in Pineville, SC (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

16. Pay Your Respects at the Grave of the Swamp Fox

History buffs, this one’s for you. Nestled within the serene landscapes of Berkeley County lies the final resting place of General Francis Marion, affectionately known as the “Swamp Fox.” Renowned for his guerrilla warfare tactics during the Revolutionary War, Marion’s elusive maneuvers baffled British forces and earned him legendary status. His tomb is situated at the former Belle Isle Plantation, once owned by his brother Gabriel.

PICTURED: Fisherman holds 84-pound catfish. (CREDIT: Black’s Camp & Restaurant/Facebook)

17. Reel in the Good Times at Black’s Camp & Restaurant in Cross

Nestled along the scenic Santee Cooper Lakes, Black’s Camp & Restaurant in Cross is a beloved destination for anglers and food enthusiasts alike. Established in 1951, this family-owned establishment offers a full-service fishing camp experience, complete with a marina, boat launch, and cozy accommodations ranging from RV sites to lakeview cabins.

Pictured: The annual Shuckin’ in the Park Festival at Old Santee Canal Park in Moncks Corner. (CREDIT: Santee Cooper)

18. Catch a Festival, Any Festival 🎉🌽

Whether it’s the Shuckin’ in the Park Oyster Roast, Moncks Corner Pro Rodeo, or Hell Hole Swamp Festival — this place knows how to throw a party. Check out a list of upcoming events at this link.

PICTURED: A golfer takes a swing at Berkeley Country Club in Moncks Corner. (CREDIT: Berkeley Country Club/Facebook)

19. Hit a Hole-in-One

Whether you’re a weekend warrior or just looking to avoid double bogeys with style, Berkeley County has some golf gems you need to check out. Crowfield Golf Club in Goose Creek offers the public tree-lined fairways and water features that’ll keep you on your toes. Bonus: the grill hits the spot post-round. Berkeley Country Club in Moncks Corner is a semi-private 18-hole golf course with a full practice facility, grill room, and a classic “Low Country” style clubhouse. It’s a go-to for locals.

20. Jam Out at the Pickin Parlor

After a day on the greens, unwind with some toe-tapping tunes at this beloved local spot. Guy and Tina’s Bluegrass Pickin Parlor is a community hub where bluegrass music comes alive, keeping the spirit of the genre vibrant for generations to come. Open every Saturday around 6 p.m., this hidden gem is located at 534 Pickin Parlor Lane in Cordesville.

PICTURED: Target practicing at Boggy Headle Rifle Range. (CREDIT: Nikki Gaskins Campbell/The Berkeley Observer)

21. Aim High at Boggy Head Rifle Range

Tucked deep in the woods, this public rifle range in Jamestown is a hidden gem for both beginners and seasoned sharpshooters. It’s free to use (yep, FREE) and the perfect place to practice your aim in a safe, structured environment.

PICTURED: Gilligan’s sits adjacent to the Tail Race Canal in Moncks Corner. (CREDIT: Gilligan’s/Facebook)

22. End the Day at Gilligan’s for Shrimp and Grits

This local seafood spot sits right on the water in Moncks Corner and serves up classics like fried oysters, crab dip, and shrimp & grits. Grab a table on the patio and toast to a day well spent. View the menu at this link.

22 Fun Things to Do in Berkeley County