South Carolina has quietly become one of the most picturesque and sought-after filming locations in the southeastern United States. Thanks to its charming small towns, rich historical backdrops, lush Lowcountry landscapes, and inviting coastline, the Palmetto State offers movie makers a diverse range of settings. Add in generous tax incentives, skilled local crews, and growing production infrastructure, and you’ve got a true Hollywood of the East.
Whether it’s the romantic streets of Charleston, the sleepy elegance of Beaufort, or the untouched natural beauty of the Blue Ridge foothills, South Carolina serves as the perfect stand-in for various times, places, and moods. Let's dive into the most famous films and shows shot here, and why the state is a screen favorite.
Iconic Movies Filmed in South Carolina
? The Notebook (2004)
Few romantic movies have left as deep a mark as The Notebook, starring Ryan Gosling and Rachel McAdams. Most of the film’s unforgettable moments were captured in Charleston, SC. Key scenes took place at Boone Hall Plantation, Cypress Gardens (where Noah and Allie paddle among swans), and the College of Charleston. The Southern charm of these settings made the film feel timeless and heartfelt.
? Forrest Gump (1994)
This Oscar-winning classic may be set across various American states, but much of it was filmed in Beaufort, South Carolina. Remember those shrimp boat scenes? Filmed along Lucy Creek and Hunting Island. The town doubled as Greenbow, Alabama, and the state’s marshy coastline provided a perfect visual backdrop for Forrest’s Gump slow but legendary journey.
? The Patriot (2000)
Starring Mel Gibson, The Patriot recreated the American Revolution with the help of several South Carolina landmarks. Filmed across Camden, Rock Hill, and Cypress Gardens, the movie used actual colonial towns and battlefields. The authenticity of these settings gave the film a gritty, real-world feel that helped it become a box office hit.
? Dear John (2010)
Nicholas Sparks’ romance-drama was mostly filmed on South Carolina's coast, especially in and around Charleston and Sullivan’s Island. The breathtaking beach scenes, quiet cafes, and historic military backgrounds were all real locations, lending genuine emotion to the story.
? Cold Mountain (2003)
Though set in North Carolina, many scenes were actually filmed in the Appalachian stretch of South Carolina. The Blue Ridge Mountain foothills provided dramatic, sweeping shots for this Civil War-era epic.
Popular TV Series Shot in South Carolina
? Outer Banks (Netflix)
Although set in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, this teen drama was filmed almost entirely in Charleston, SC. Netflix chose the Palmetto State because of better filming incentives and the state's perfect stand-ins for coastal and marshy scenes. Shem Creek and Morris Island Lighthouse play prominent roles in the storyline.
? Army Wives (Lifetime)
Filmed entirely in Charleston, this long-running drama about military spouses used Joint Base Charleston and its nearby neighborhoods for an authentic military environment. Its portrayal of the emotional lives behind service members connected with many viewers.
? Vice Principals (HBO)
This dark comedy starring Danny McBride was set in a fictional school but filmed in real South Carolina high schools in North Charleston. The unique Southern vibe added extra flavor to the show’s rebellious tone.
? Reckless (CBS)
A short-lived but stylish legal drama, Reckless was shot entirely in Charleston and took advantage of the city’s Southern Gothic feel. Scenes were filmed at local courthouses, mansions, and historic districts.
? Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Productions in South Carolina
While big names like The Notebook and Forrest Gump grab the spotlight, South Carolina has also hosted numerous indie films, student projects, and made-for-TV movies. Some hidden gems include:
- Chasing Ghosts (2005): A gritty crime thriller partially filmed in Columbia, SC.
- Asylum (2008): A horror flick shot on the University of South Carolina campus.
- Swamp Thing (TV reboot 2019): Though it ended early, parts of this show were filmed in swampy Lowcountry landscapes.
These lesser-known titles show off the state’s versatility and the diversity of filmmakers it attracts.
❓ FAQs About Movies and Shows Filmed in SC
1. What famous movie was filmed in Beaufort, SC?
Forrest Gump was filmed largely in and around Beaufort, including the shrimp boat scenes and town shots.
2. Why was Outer Banks filmed in South Carolina?
Netflix chose Charleston for Outer Banks due to more favorable tax incentives and visually similar coastal areas.
3. Are there any horror films shot in South Carolina?
Yes! Asylum (2008) and Swamp Thing (2019) featured horror elements filmed in SC’s eerie, moss-draped environments.
4. Can I visit The Notebook’s filming locations?
Absolutely. Cypress Gardens, Boone Hall Plantation, and the College of Charleston are all open to visitors.
5. Has South Carolina been used in Civil War films?
Yes. Cold Mountain and The Patriot both used SC landscapes to portray Civil War and Revolutionary War settings.
6. What TV shows besides Outer Banks were shot in SC?
Army Wives, Vice Principals, and Reckless are notable examples filmed largely in Charleston.
7. Where was The Notebook filmed?
The Notebook was filmed in several locations across South Carolina, most notably in Charleston. Iconic scenes were shot at Boone Hall Plantation (Allie’s family estate), Cypress Gardens (the romantic swan boat scene), and the College of Charleston. These settings helped capture the Southern charm and timeless beauty that made the film a classic.
South Carolina’s Place in Movie History
South Carolina may not be the first place you think of when it comes to movie magic, but it’s quietly been a star for decades. With a mix of coastal charm, historical richness, and Southern hospitality, it’s no wonder so many directors choose to film here. Whether you’re a die-hard movie buff or a curious traveler, exploring the filming history of the Palmetto State is a reel adventure worth taking.