Undiscovered Treasures of the SC State Parks

You know about Hunting Island and Table Rock. You’ve all been to Santee or Dreher Island. But how about Goodale, Calhoun Falls, Givhans Ferry or Sadlers Creek? I bet you’re saying to yourself, those places aren’t in South Carolina – much less state parks! Well, its time we let the cat out of the bag!

Did you know that there were 47 state parks from the mountains to the sea and everywhere in between? We’d like to introduce you to some of lesser known parks that even though are smaller and undiscovered, have a lot to offer you and your family during your next state park vacation or outing.

Calhoun Falls State Recreation Area, Calhoun Falls, SC

Arguably the best campground in the state park system, Calhoun Falls is located on Lake Russell in Abbeville County. Due to its out-of-the-way location, Calhoun Falls sometimes slips a campers mind, but its facilities and campsites are second to none. Along with camping the park offers picnicking, a tennis court, a playground and hiking.

Givhans Ferry State Park, Ridgeville, SC

A quaint, charming little park with a great location is Givhans Ferry State Park in Ridgeville, SC. Only about a 30-minute drive from downtown Charleston, Givhans Ferry is the perfect place to stay if you’d like to explore Charleston, but relax from the hustle and bustle in the evening. The park has five newly-remodeled cabins and 25 campsites. It is located on the Edisto River and is part of a canoe and kayak trail with its sister park, Colleton. The park is also ideal for picnicking, fishing, hiking and other outdoor activities.

Goodale State Park, Camden, SC

Just a skip and a hop from downtown Columbia, and right outside of Camden is the day-use state park named Goodale. Goodale offers picnicking, a fine community building, a nature trail, fishing and a 3-mile canoe trail that’s possibly the best in the state park system. This great little park is ideal for a day outing with kids or a large family gathering or reunion.

Poinsett State Park, Wedgefield, SC

If it’s all about location, then Poinsett State Park has a lot going for it. Located only about 40 minutes from downtown Columbia and a short drive from Sumter, Poinsett is a great place for getting out. The park has five cabins, 50 campsites, fishing, boat rentals, equestrian facilities and hiking and biking trails. It is also located next to Manchester State Forest with a plethora of trails and outdoor activities. The unique flora and fauna of Poinsett makes you feel as if you are in the mountains when you are actually in the Sandhills region of South Carolina.

Sadlers Creek State Recreation Area, Anderson, SC

Located on Lake Hartwell, Sadlers Creek is a fantastic park for picnicking and reunions, boasts over 60 campsites and is teeming with wildlife. The boat ramp provides great access to Lake Hartwell for fishing and other water recreation, and playground equipment and various trails offer lots to do for the land lubber. The picnic and Pavilion area are ideally located and make a great spot for a family reunion or other large group outing.