Discover Aiken County: History, Nature and Experiences

Aiken County brings together historic sites, river landscapes and a wide range of activities. Redcliffe Plantation tells the story of a mansion and its stables; parks and protected areas offer other experiences, from hiking to trails on the water. Art, equestrian sports and local traditions can also be highlights of your trip.

History and Culture in Aiken County

Redcliffe Plantation was completed in 1859. It includes the only surviving cabin for enslaved people in South Carolina’s state park system. The mansion is accessible only on guided tours. These tell the story of the Hammond mansion and the historic stables. Since the tour schedule is sometimes limited, check the availability of a tour before you arrive.

The Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum also focuses on an important part of local history: it honors 40 champion thoroughbreds that trained at the Aiken Training Track. The Beech Island Historical Tour offers a different perspective on the region. It covers historic Beech Island, Beech Island Barn and Zubly Cemetery.

The Aiken Center For The Arts regularly presents gallery exhibitions featuring artists from the region, South Carolina and the wider state. It also offers classes in a variety of artistic media for all ages. In North Augusta, the Arts & Heritage Center of North Augusta focuses on regional art and history; its exhibitions change every three months.

The Aiken County Farmers Market offers a glimpse into a local market tradition. It is the oldest county farmers market in South Carolina to have operated continuously at the same location. Its offerings include fresh produce, baked goods, and locally sourced meats and cheeses.

River Landscapes, Protected Areas and Trails

Silver Bluff Audubon Sanctuary covers 3,410 acres of protected land and stretches along 2.6 miles of the Savannah River. The sanctuary has eight miles of hiking trails; more than 200 bird species have also been recorded there. Hitchcock Woods offers a different way to enjoy nature: the urban forest is open 365 days a year, from sunrise to sunset.

For paved trails, North Augusta has the North Augusta Greeneway, a multipurpose trail more than 7 miles long for walking, running and cycling. Boyd Pond Park brings together a range of landscapes and recreational features: the park includes a 30-acre pond, a 2-mile hiking trail and an 18-hole disc golf course established in 2016.

Water Trails and Outdoor Activities

The options on the water vary in length and type. Aiken State Park is on the South Edisto River and has a 1.7-mile canoe and kayak trail along the South Fork of the Edisto River. The Horse Creek Water Trail is a 9-mile canoe and kayak trail along historic Horse Creek. In several sections, it runs from Graniteville through Langley Pond to Harrison-Caver Park in Clearwater.

Langley Pond Park has a 2,000-meter rowing course with eight lanes fully marked by buoys. The park also hosts regattas, triathlons, and water-skiing and wakeboarding competitions. If you are weighing up different water sports, the course length and the events listed provide a concrete indication of which activities are featured.

Equestrian sports and wildlife watching are also on offer. At Stable View, visitors can watch or take part in equestrian activities. Guided rides for beginners and advanced riders are offered on the Langley Pond Loop Trail. Eudora Farms combines a petting zoo with a drive-through safari. Animals there include a giraffe, alpacas, camels, lemurs, zebras and baboons. Since operating details can change, check the information before you arrive.

Unique Experiences and Choosing a Hotel

Built in 1951, The Big Mo is one of the few drive-in theaters still operating in South Carolina. Three double features are usually shown every weekend in spring, summer and fall. The program may change, so check the screenings before you set out. Along with historic tours, arts offerings and nature trails, the theater provides another way to spend your time in Aiken County.

Explore more destinations: Aiken, North Augusta, Marlboro County, Jasper County, Union County, Chester County, Pickens County, Dorchester County.

For the broader travel overview: South Carolina.