Recreational Opportunities Expand

Barnwell County has been growing its recreational opportunities in recent years with some exciting additions.

A splash pad was installed at Fuller Park in August 2021 and quickly became a summer favorite for children and parents looking to escape the heat. Fuller Park is also home to the Barnwell County Farmers Market which gathers the community under the gazebo a few times a week.

Summer 2022 brought an aquatic center to The Barnwell County Family YMCA through a joint public-private partnership that fundraised for the $1 million project. It includes a large pool with a slide, a kiddie pool with water features, and a large deck area for picnics and shade. Day passes for the aquatic center are available if an individual does not have a membership to the YMCA.

If water activities are not your thing, Williston is home to a professionally sanctioned 18-hole disc golf course located at the Williston Town Park. The Williston Disc Golf Club frequently holds tournaments that draw players from across the region.

The fastest growing sport in America has already taken hold in Barnwell County. Pickleball courts are being built on the grounds of the YMCA and conversations are being held to bring them to Blackville and Williston as well.

Recreation committees and dedicated leaders have stepped into official roles as well. In Barnwell, Kevin Roberts started in June 2022 as the city’s parks, recreation and tourism director and has brought innovative ideas to the community’s indoor and outdoor opportunities – one of which being the Butterfly Kisses Daddy-Daughter Dance held around Valentine’s Day.

In Blackville, Tykesha Jenkins was appointed as the recreation director and led successful seasons of youth sports by bringing together various community facets.

In Williston, a newly formed Recreation & Activities Committee has worked to bring more opportunities to the youth, funded many uniform updates, and continues to bring innovative events to the community.

Recreation is not just being physically active but an activity done for enjoyment, and Barnwell County is full of plenty of things to enjoy.