Last Updated on June 5, 2025 by PorchLightReading
Explore Moncks Corner, South Carolina. 7 Family-friendly activities to do in Moncks Corner, SC. From gardens, boat tours, dirt roads, antique stores, and more!
Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is a delightful town that perfectly captures the charm of the Lowcountry. Located just a short drive from Charleston, this hidden gem offers a variety of activities and attractions that cater to history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those who appreciate small-town charm.
From exploring historic ruins to wandering through serene gardens, I hope you enjoy this guide to some of the best things to do in Moncks Corner, complete with admission details, trail information, and reasons why these spots are worth a visit.
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- Table of Contents: Moncks Corner, South Carolina
- Mepkin Abbey Monastery and gardens
- Explore Old Santee Canal Park
- Boat Tours and nature walks at Cypress Gardens
- Lake Moultrie – Fishing, kayaking, swimming
- Quick trip to Biggin Church Ruins
- Old Rice Mill in the Francis Marion National Forest
- Charming antique stores in the area
- Final thoughts
MONCKS CORNER SOUTH CAROLINA
Moncks Corner, South Carolina, is a historic town located in Berkeley County, founded in 1728. It is named after Thomas Monck, one of the early English settlers in the area. The town originally served as a trading post and was an important hub for the rice and indigo plantations that thrived in the Lowcountry.
Moncks Corner is known for its rich history, including its role during the American Revolution and its strategic location along the Santee Canal, the first true canal in America.
MEPKIN ABBEY MONASTERY AND GARDENS
Mepkin Abbey is a Trappist monastery set along the scenic Cooper River. Known for its serene atmosphere, the abbey features beautifully manicured gardens, a historic cemetery, a labyrinth and more. The monks live a life of contemplation and work, producing goods like mushrooms and handmade products, which are available in the abbey’s gift shop.
Visitors can stroll through the gardens, visit the gift shop, and explore the grounds, which offer a tranquil retreat from the outside world.
Mepkin Abbey is the perfect destination for anyone seeking peace, or simply a quiet place to enjoy nature. The lush gardens are particularly stunning in spring and autumn, and the serene environment makes it an ideal spot to relax and recharge.
- Location: 1098 Mepkin Abbey Rd. Moncks Corner, SC 29461
- Admission: Free, donations appreciated.
- Hours: Open Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
- Highlights: Walking paths, gardens, gift shop.
OLD SANTEE CANAL PARK, MONCKS CORNER
Old Santee Canal Park is a 195-acre park dedicated to the history of the first true canal in America. The park features four miles of boardwalks, nature trails, and interpretive exhibits that tell the story of the canal and its significance to the region.
This park is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The boardwalks offer scenic views of the surrounding wetlands, and the Berkeley County Museum within the park provides fascinating insights into the area’s history. It’s a great spot for a family outing, with plenty of space for picnics and exploration.
- Location: 900 Stony Landing Rd. Moncks Corner, SC 29461
- Admission: $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (65+) & military, $3 for children (6-12), and free for children under 6.
- Hours: Open daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Trails: Four miles of boardwalks and trails, including the Canal Path and Swamp Fox Adventure Trail, which offer scenic views and a chance to spot local wildlife. Admission includes visiting the Berkeyly County Museum located to the right as you drive in.
CYPRESS GARDENS AND BOAT TOAR
Cypress Gardens is a stunning 170-acre preserve featuring blackwater swamps, lush gardens, and walking trails. The gardens are home to an abundance of wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can explore the swamps by walking on the boardwalks or taking a flat-bottomed boat tour.
Cypress Gardens is a beautiful and serene spot that offers a unique glimpse into the natural landscape of the Lowcountry. The boat rides through the swamps are a highlight, offering a peaceful and picturesque experience. The gardens are also a great place for photography, birdwatching, and simply enjoying the outdoors..
- Location: 3030 Cypress Gardens Rd. Moncks Corner, SC 29461
- Admission: $10 for adults, $6.50 for seniors, 911, & military $5 for children (6-12), free for children under 6.
- Free admission to Berkeley County residents a few times each year. Visit their website for more details.
- Hours: Open daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Highlights: Swamp boat tours, butterfly house, small aquarium, nature trails.
LAKE MOULTRIE MONCKS CORNER
Lake Moultrie offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that cater to different interests, making it a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy nature, whether through fishing, boating, camping, or simply relaxing by the water. Note- Alligators do live in this lake.
Short Stay- Short Stay Beach is a recreational area on the shores of Lake Moultrie, offering a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a variety of water activities. It’s a popular spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and simply enjoying the outdoors.
- Admission: For military families and DOD cardholders.
- Hours: Open daily, with seasonal hours.
- Highlights: Beach, camping, picnic areas, boat rentals.
THE BIGGIN CHURCH RUINS SOUTH CAROLINA
The Biggin Church Ruins are the remains of a church built in the early 1700s. The church was destroyed and rebuilt several times before falling into ruin. Today, the site offers a glimpse into the area’s colonial history, with moss-covered walls and ancient gravestones adding to the site’s atmosphere.
- Admission: Free.
- Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk.
- Highlights: Historic ruins, gravestones, peaceful surroundings.
- Note- This is a quick stop on your way to another destination in the area. There is no designated parking area but you can park inside the cemetery near the ruins.
THE OLD RICE MILL
The Old Rice Mill is a historical site that reflects the importance of rice production in the Lowcountry. Though the mill itself is no longer operational, the site serves as a reminder of the agricultural practices that once dominated the region.
This old ruin is located in the Francis Marion National Forest, and the journey is part of the destination. First you’ll check into the National Forest by stopping in the parking lot and filling out a form asking who is visiting. Then you’ll make your way (by appropriate vehicle for the terrain) down a dirt road through the National Forest and onto the destination.
Must have bug spray and proper footwear.
- Location: Located just past Mepkin Abbey on Bonneau Ferry Dr. Must check in and drive down a dirt road until you reach the Old Rice Mill.
- Old Rice Mill, Moncks Corner, SC 29461
- Note- Your GPS may try and have you enter the National Forest by talking you down Sawmill Rd. You will not be able to enter as there is a gate. You’ll need to drive just past Sawmill Rd. to Bonneau Ferry Dr.
- Be sure to grab a map at the kiosk as there are many dirt roads in this area.
- Admission: Free.
- Hours: Open year-round, dawn to dusk.
- Highlights: Historical site, approximatly a 0.5 mile trail to reach the Old Rice Mill located along the Cooper River.
MONCKS CORNER, SC ANTIQUE STORES
Moncks Corner is home to several antique stores, each offering a unique selection of vintage items, collectibles, and rare finds. These stores are full of history and charm, making them a favorite stop for visitors who enjoy browsing and treasure hunting.
- Vintiques Artisan Market
- Collector’s Corner
- Doc’s Place Antique Mall
FINAL THOUGHTS
Moncks Corner, South Carolina, may be a small town, but it’s packed with history, natural beauty, and Southern charm. Whether you’re exploring the serene grounds of Mepkin Abbey, enjoying a leisurely boat ride through Cypress Gardens, or hunting for antiques, there’s something here for everyone. It’s the perfect destination for a peaceful getaway, offering a chance to slow down, appreciate the beauty of the Lowcountry, and discover some hidden gems along the way.
So, the next time you’re looking for a quiet escape or a new adventure, consider a visit to Moncks Corner. You won’t be disappointed!
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