Discover South Carolina: Nature, Waterways and History

Discover South Carolina through nature and cultural experiences that each focus on a specific place: from a marked canoe trail on Cedar Creek to lighthouse history and hiking trails. To plan your trip, first consider whether waterscapes, mountain routes, seasonal wildlife viewing or historic sights should shape your stay. The following places offer different starting points for making your selection.

Wetlands, Waterways and Distinctive Plants

At Congaree National Park, a marked canoe trail on Cedar Creek invites you to explore the stream from the water. Check current conditions before you travel. This is especially useful when planning a paddling trip, while keeping the canoe trail in view.

The Jocassee Gorges showcase a different kind of landscape: numerous streams have carved rugged gorges and created scenic waterfalls. The plant life also has a distinctive representative. Oconee bells is a rare plant species considered characteristic of the Jocassee Gorges.

The Ashepoo-Combahee-Edisto Basin system is one of the largest remaining undeveloped wetland ecosystems on the Atlantic coast. The Grove House is a visitor station at the Ernest F. Hollings ACE Basin National Wildlife Refuge. Built in 1828, the building was the mansion of a former rice plantation. The landscape and the building thus offer two different points of interest for visiting this protected area: the wetland itself and its history.

Lighthouses and Historic Sites

Hunting Island Lighthouse was built in 1859 and rebuilt in 1875 after being destroyed during the Civil War. Visitors can climb the 167 steps to the top; the lighthouse is currently open to the public. Check current park conditions before your visit.

Charles Towne Landing brings together several different attractions at a historic site: a replica of the 17th-century trading ship Adventure, an Animal Forest and an interactive museum. Some exhibits may close for maintenance. The South Carolina State House offers tours. Each tour begins with a 15-minute video about the building’s history and architecture; check the tour schedule before your visit.

Fort Sumter is located in Charleston Harbor and can only be reached by boat. Operating details may vary seasonally, so it is worth checking the latest visitor information. The site’s history can also be briefly summarized: in 1948, after being transferred from the War Department to the National Park Service, Fort Sumter was designated a National Monument.

Another distinctive cultural tradition is sweetgrass basket weaving, the official craft of the State of South Carolina. Along with historic buildings and exhibits, it offers a different way to experience the state’s culture than its landscapes and outdoor activities.

Hiking Trails and Fall Wildlife Viewing

Specific details about route type, distance and elevation help with planning hikes. The Carrick Creek Trail in Table Rock State Park is a moderately difficult, two-mile loop; access work may temporarily affect facilities. The Table Rock Trail is 3.6 miles long and climbs 2,000 feet to the summit of Table Rock Mountain. The round-trip distance on the Raven Cliff Falls Trail in Caesars Head State Park is four miles.

Caesars Head is connected to Jones Gap State Park within the 17,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area. Each fall, Caesars Head State Park hosts the Hawk-Watch program, a seasonal point of interest to consider when planning your trip.

Plan the Right Hotel Location

Next, compare a hotel’s stated location with the specific destinations you want to visit. That way, your choice is guided by your itinerary rather than broad assumptions about hotel categories or amenities.

Explore More Destinations

Explore more destinations: Berkeley, Newberry County, Laurens, Chester County, Marlboro County, Dillon County, Georgetown, Lee County, Bamberg County, Williamsburg County, Kershaw County, Oconee County, Lugoff, Horry, Richland, Lexington, Florence, Anderson, Greenville, Spartanburg, York, Darlington, Jasper County, Barnwell County, Pickens County, Aiken County, Chesterfield County, Clarendon, Orangeburg County, Allendale, Cherokee County, Dorchester County, Sumter County, Colleton County, Hampton County, Beaufort, Charleston, Saluda, Fairfield County, Beaufort County, Union County, Clay County, Abbeville County

For the main travel overview: USA.