FAQs
Colonial Dorchester State Historic Site FAQ
If you have a problem or question not answered in our FAQs, please contact us.
What are the hours of operation for the park?
The park is open 9am-6pm, 7 days/week. It is closed on Christmas Day.
Are campsites available at the park?
Are weddings or other special events allowed at the park?
Small, informal weddings are permitted at the park. We ask that you arrange a time with a member of our staff to receive a “wedding tour”. During that time we will explain the rules and regulations and give you a copy of those rules to take with you.
The cost of having a wedding at the park depends on the number of guests attending. We charge the regular admission fee of $2/adult, $1.25/SC residents over the age of 65 and free for kids 15 and under. For more information, please contact the park directly.
Is fishing allowed at the park?
Yes, fishing is allowed at Colonial Dorchester.
Is grilling permitted on the park?
We do not allow grills on site. If you are interested in a picnic, you will have to bring pre-cooked food items. If you are interested in grilling at a park near Summerville, we recommend contacting
Givhans Ferry State Park.
Are there any bike trails at Colonial Dorchester?
Due to the sensitive nature of this unique archaeology site, we do not have biking trails. However, we do have a few short walking paths throughout the park. The paths lead you on a walking tour throughout the historic colonial town remains.
Are visitors allowed to participate in archaeology digs?
We have our Process of Discovery program on certain Saturdays (weather permitting) from 10 am-2pm. During this time the public can come out and observe archaeologists as they piece together the history of the town. These Saturday programs may include sifting through dirt, cleaning previously found artifacts or interpreting artifacts found throughout the site. Due to the scientific complexity of archaeology we recommend calling to verify the level of experience that the archaeologist will be presenting.
Are metal detectors allowed at Colonial Dorchester?
Metal detectors are not allowed at this historic site. Click here for a printable version of our guidelines concerning metal detector use on state parks and state park properties throughout South Carolina.
What are your metal detection guidelines for State Parks and State Park properties?
Is there river access for boating at the park?
There is no river access for boating at Colonial Dorchester.
Are pets allowed at Colonial Dorchester?
Pets are allowed, but must be on a leash or other physical restraint at all times. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife.
How can I provide my comments and feedback on my recent visit to a state park?
Does the park service have a comprehensive guide with information on all 47 state parks?
To access our online, interactive Official Guide to South Carolina's State Parks, please
click this link.
How do I make a reservation at a state park?
Reservations at state parks may be made up to 11 months in advance. There are three convenient ways to make reservations at South Carolina State Parks:
Call toll free 1-866-345-PARK (7275)
Online at
SouthCarolinaParks.com or
click here to reserve
At the park of your choice, by calling the park directly
Reservations for group camps or primitive camping must still be made through the state parks.
Camping Reservations: Reservations requested less than one (1) day in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park.
For example: If today is Friday and you are making a reservation checking in on today, Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly. Campsite reservations require payment in full at the time the reservation is made.
Cabin Reservations & Day Use Facilities: Reservations requested LESS THAN three (3) days in advance of check-in must be made directly through the park.
For example: If today is Wednesday and you are making a reservation for the upcoming Friday, you must make the reservation by contacting the park directly.
How far in advance may I make a reservation?
Reservations may be made up to 11 months in advance. For example: If you would like to check in on November 1, 2012 you can call or go online to make reservations on December 1, 2011.
What is the cancellation policy for park reservations?
Fees assessed to reservation cancellations or changes are based on the amount of notice given in advance of the arrival date. Transaction fees are not refundable. Below is more detailed information:
CANCELLATION POLICY:
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LODGING
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CAMPING
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DAY-USE
|
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Notice Given
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Fee / Penalty
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Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
|
30+ Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
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15+ Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
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15+ Days
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No Charge
|
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15-29 Days
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1 night charge
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4-14 Days
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1 night charge
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4-14 Days
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$10 Handling Fee
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0-14 Days
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Entire deposit
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0-3 Days
|
Entire deposit
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0-3 Days
|
Entire deposit
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TRANSFER / CHANGE POLICY *:
|
LODGING
|
CAMPING
|
DAY-USE
|
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
Notice Given
|
Fee / Penalty
|
|
30+ Days
|
No Charge
|
15+ Days
|
No Charge
|
15+ Days
|
No Charge
|
|
15-29 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
4-14 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
4-14 Days
|
$10 Handling Fee
|
|
0-14 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
0-3 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
0-3 Days
|
Cancellation Required
|
* Changes that result in additional nights reserved will not incur handling fees or penalties, but will be subject to non-refundable transaction fees for the additional nights.
EARLY DEPARTURE POLICY: Cancellation Policy applies in conjunction with Fee Policy for Emergency Waivers.
Are pets allowed in state parks?
Pets are allowed in most outdoor areas provided they are kept under physical restraint or on a leash not longer than six feet. Owners will be asked to remove noisy or dangerous pets or pets that threaten or harass wildlife. Pets are not allowed in or around cabins, cabin areas or other lodging facilities.
Which parks offer free wi-fi internet service?
The following parks offer free wifi in some capacity on the park: Caesars Head State Park, Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site, Devils Fork State Park, Dreher Island State Park, Edisto Beach State Park, Hickory Knob State Resort Park, Hunting Island State Park, Lake Greenwood State Park, Myrtle Beach State Park, Oconee State Park, Paris Mountain State Park, Poinsett State Park, Santee State Park, Table Rock State Park and Lake Hartwell State Park. For more detailed information, please contact the park you are interested in visiting, directly.
What is the discount policy for senior citizens, blind and disabled citizens?
South Carolina residents who are at least 65 years of age, legally blind or disabled, qualify for certain rate reductions. Proof of age or disability is required. These qualifying residents receive 35% off admission fees, camping, picnic shelters, golf greens fees and fishing pier admission. In order to receive the camping discount, qualifying individuals MUST occupy the site reserved. Also these qualifying residents may purchase a Palmetto Passport for $37.50 (50% off) for admission to all state parks for the period of one year. There are NO rate reductions for lodging, building or meeting facility rentals, leased facilities, resale items or equipment rentals.
Do out-of-state senior citizens, blind or disabled citizens receive any discounts?
The same rate reductions as listed in the question above are extended to out-of-state U.S. residents only at the following parks: Baker Creek, Calhoun Falls, Hamilton Branch, Hickory Knob, Lake Hartwell and Sadlers Creek, EXCEPT for the Palmetto Passport discount.
What are your metal detection guidelines for State Parks and State Park properties?
What are your geocaching guidlelines for state parks and state park properties?
How can I get printed information on state park camping and lodging?
Where can I find information about State Park employment, internships, etc?
What is the minimum age required to reserve/occupy a campsite?
To reserve and/or occupy a campsite, a member of the party must be least 18 years of age and present at the time of check in. They must also be present on the site with the camping equipment.
Are alcoholic beverages allowed on park property?
It is unlawful for any person to consume or display in public any beverage of alcoholic content, including beer and wine, except where specifically authorized by the Department.
Are golf carts permitted on state parks?
For information regarding the use of a personal golf cart, please contact the individual park that you plan to visit.
What are check in and check out times for cabins and villas?
Check in time for cabins and villas is 4pm and check out time is 10am at all parks except for Hickory Knob. Please contact the individual parks for late arrival instructions.
What are check in and check out times for camping?
Check in time for camping is 2pm and check out time is 12pm for all parks. Please contact the park for late arrival instructions.
How can I provide my comments and feedback on my recent visit to a state park?
Does the park service have a comprehensive guide with information on all 47 state parks?
To access our online, interactive Official Guide to South Carolina's State Parks, please
click this link.