Colonial Lake Garden Revitalization
CHARLESTON, S.C. – May 2025 – The Conservancy is thrilled to announce the revitalization of Colonial Lake! Charleston Parks Conservancy has thus far completed the extensive clean-up of Colonial Lake, including the removal of invasive plants and trees that were causing critical infrastructure damage to the lake. Colonial Lake has long been a cornerstone of Charleston’s public parks, and the ongoing revitalization efforts will maintain its legacy as a vibrant community space. The project focuses on replacing overgrown and vulnerable plant materials with resilient, climate-adapted species designed to thrive in Charleston’s challenging environment, enhance biodiversity, and provide year-round beauty.
In Spring 2024, the Charleston Parks Conservancy launched a fundraising campaign to revitalize the three acres of gardens surrounding Colonial Lake—and our community responded with incredible generosity. Work began in Fall 2024 with the removal of overgrowth and invasive species, restoring sightlines, and preparing the gardens for a vibrant replanting effort. Volunteers helped rehome healthy plants to other parks and participated in our community “Dig and Divide” day—over 100 people came out to repurpose and adopt plants, keeping waste low and community engagement high.
In December 2024, the team brought on acclaimed Creative Director Molly Hendry to reimagine the gardens with her thoughtful and inspiring design vision. Known for her expertise in Southern native plants and sustainable design, Hendry’s appointment marks a new initiative by the Conservancy to bring world-class innovation to Charleston’s beloved public parks and green spaces. Planting began in April 2025 and will be fully completed by October 2025, creating a lush, welcoming landscape for all to enjoy.
We are excited to see the vision of the lake bloom our neighborhood!
About the Charleston Parks Conservancy
The Charleston Parks Conservancy is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring the people of Charleston to connect with their parks and create stunning public places and a strong community. For over 15 years, the Conservancy has been involved in renovating and beautifying 26 parks in partnership with the City of Charleston. Notable projects include the renovation of Colonial Lake, the Rose Pavilion at Hampton Park, Moultrie Playground, St. Julian Devine Community Center and Park, Magnolia Park and Community Garden, Medway Park, and Community Garden, and Corrine Jones Community Garden. For more information, visit www.charlestonparksconservancy.org