Last Updated on June 5, 2025 by PorchLightReading
How to visit the Daniel Island Treehouse in Charleston, SC. This hidden gem is a must see for families ready for a small adventure.
Treehouse, nature walk, antique store.
When we first moved to the area we were a bit lost on what to do or where to go. Traffic was tough, places were busy, and those “where to go in Charleston” posts all mentioned similar places. Downtown, Rainbow Row, The Battery, Angel Tree, ect.
But on a warm summer day we want something a bit slower. A small adventure and a day that holds a little something for everyone.
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- Table of Contents: Daniel Island Treehouse, Charleston South Carolina
- History of the area
- Two story treehouse
- Location and parking
- Things to do in the area
DANIEL ISLAND TREEHOUSE
Located on Daniel Island, Charleston, is a beautiful little treehouse overlooking the Wando River. Locals will argue that this is NOT HIDDEN, and that they’ve know about it for years! They are absolutely right. This place is not hidden and it has been around for quite some time.
However, for those new or visiting the area, this little gem is one that doesn’t come up much when searching for things to do.
*Note- Before we go on I want to be clear that this is a small adventure in a residential neighborhood. It’s important to be respectful while visiting and to remember that even though this is a public park, people live very close by.
A LITTLE HISTORY
Driving up to the small park you’ll see the treehouse located on the lefthand side. Next to the entrance is a small informational plaque explaining the history of the area.
Site of Mitchell Pier- Back in the early 1900’s Daniel Island was home to a large vegetable farm, and near this location they had a pier where a barge would come daily to pick up vegetables to sell in Charleston and further north.
The area continued to grow and in the 1920’s they added a post office, school, and housing.
Today it is now a small park with a two story treehouse with a long wooden ramp and steep stairs leading to the second story.
TWO STORY TREEHOUSE
The long wooden ramp invites you to the first floor of this treehouse and you’ll notice something like palm fronds are used for the roof along the sides. The frame of the treehouse creates a window that overlooks the river in front of you where boats hurry by ready to start their weekend out on the water.
The bright colors of the marsh, while being surrounded by a large live oak tree, give a fairy tale feeling as you enjoy the breeze coming from the river.
A steep staircase/ladder brings you to the second story of the treehouse where the large tree trunk comes through the floor and branches twist around the rails, making the canopy above.
Spanish moss drips from it’s branches and at the right time of day the moss holds a golden sparkle that makes you thankful for this quiet moment.
LOCATION AND PARKING
The Daniel Island Treehouse is located in a small park at 1428 Smythe St, Charleston, SC 29492. There is no designated parking lot but on street parking is permitted. Please remember to be respectful as this is a residential neighborhood.
Related Posts:
- 1428 Smythe St, Charleston, SC 29492
- On street parking
THINGS TO DO IN THE AREA
I mentioned earlier that this is a quick stop and a small adventure, leaving us with a bit of extra time. Downtown you’ll find a few nice restaurants to include brick oven pizza, Mexican, seafood, and more! Or pack a picnic and head to one of the local parks.
If you’re looking to stretch your legs a bit further, head over to the Daniel Island Trail. You can find this trail and ample parking at the Daniel Island Recreation Center. This scenic trail is approximately 1.5 miles one way and runs along the Wando River.
There are a few other parks in the area, but I’ll let you explore those on your own.
SHOPPING, ANTIQUES, AND SECOND HAND FURNITURE
Charleston has a great number of antique stores and if I tried to name them all then this would turn into a completely different article. However, I will include a couple of our favorites nearby to get you started.
- The East Cooper Home Store
- Mount Pleasant Mall
FINAL THOUGHTS
This weekend adventure on Daniel Island holds a little bit for everyone when you’re looking for something simple and different than downtown Charleston. With a treehouse for the kids to explore, a nature trail along the river, and a bit a shopping in a nice air conditioned thrift and antique stores, it’s a great way to spend a slow Saturday afternoon.
We’ll see you on our next adventure!
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