SOUTH CAROLINA STATE PARKS ARE A VISITORS’ FAVORITE When the great outdoors is calling, it’s likely a South Carolina State Park you’re hearing
By David Bodle
F
rom the Atlantic Ocean to the Blue Ridge Mountains, South Carolina’s diverse landscapes have been attracting generations of travelers. Couples, families and small groups have enjoyed a wealth of outdoor experiences in state park settings that feature a wide variety of camping, cabin and lodging options. Here are just a few to pique your interest.
OCONEE STATE PARK Mountain Rest
The definitive, relaxing mountain getaway features fishing and canoe rentals on a lake with a swimming hole, several nature trails for hiking and the Foot Hills Trail, the southern trail head on the Blue Ridge Escarpment. The Palmetto Connector Trail is a hike to the historic Oconee Station and the Station Cove Falls. In the winter months, there is trout fishing at Cabin Lake, one of two lakes in the park, while the spring has the picturesque laurel in bloom. There will be bluegrass music and square dancing on Fridays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. One of the 16 state parks built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), there are rustic cabins with upgrades available to rent. There are also lake-view cabins and others in a more secluded wooded area. The main campground’s individual campsites have electrical and water hookups. A tent camping area with tent pads and centralized water is just off the main campground. All
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campgrounds are conveniently located near restrooms and hot water showers.
KEOWEE-TOXAWAY STATE PARK Sunset
Marvelous views of the Blue Ridge Mountains have earned this park a designation as one of South Carolina’s pretty places. Natural Bridge Trail is a moderately strenuous, 1.3-mile loop. A pleasant place to connect with the Blue Ridge Mountain foothills, the trail features a rock natural bridge over Poe Creek. Raven Rock Trail is also moderately strenuous, but with a 4.4-mile loop. Both trails offer splendid spring wildflower photo opportunities. Canoe/kayak access to Lake Keowee is convenient in the park, while motorized boat access is about five miles away from the park entrance. Access to Lake Keowee for fishing is just a half-mile trail. Swimming is permitted in the lake. There are 10 paved RV sites that will accommodate units up to 40 feet in total length with individual water and electric hook up. Bigger vehicles will have trouble navigating the campground road. Check with the park directly for any concerns. There’s trailside camping at three designated sites on the shore of Lake Keowee. One primitive group area is available on the lake’s shore with a minimum of six campers and a maximum of 25. A completely furnished lodge with all basic amenities, including two fireplaces, sleeps 10 and overlooks the lake with a private dock. @SportsPlanGuide #SportsPG
