Caesars Head

Kathryn Gompers

Park Manager

Welcome.  My name is Kathryn Gompers, and I am the park manager at Jones Gap State Park.  For me, becoming a park ranger was all about chance. The first day on the job, I knew it was the perfect fit for my long-term career. I remember I was riding an ATV on the beach and couldn’t believe I was being paid to do it! It’s easy to fall in love with the resources and moments we get to experience in South Carolina's state parks.

My favorite spot at Caesars Head is the view of fall leaves from the overlook. At the overlook, you can see the daily progression of color as the leaves change at a different rate down the mountainside. Every year it becomes one of my favorite things to watch.

If you're a first-time visitor to Caesars Head, you must go to the overlook-- no matter what! It is a spectacular view and easy to access.

**Our Ultimate Outsider stamp can be found at the front door of the ranger station/visitor center.  There is an additional stamp in the visitor center at the front desk.

A granitic gneiss outcropping atop the dramatic Blue Ridge Escarpment gives Caesars Head State Park its name. Every fall, from the easily-accessible overlook atop the rocky peak of the Blue Ridge Escarpment, sight-seers are treated to the Hawk Watch program and a spectacular view that extends into North Carolina and Georgia.

Caesars Head connects to Jones Gap State Park in what is known as the Mountain Bridge Wilderness Area, a 17,000-acre area of pristine southern mountain forest. Hikers can take a number of loops and traverse hiking trails that connect the parks, and trailside camping is available for those who choose the longer routes.

One of the most popular trails at Caesars Head is the four-mile, round trip Raven Cliff Falls trail. This hiking trail leads to the scenic overlook, where you can view the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls. There is also a 6.6 mile round trip hike to a suspension bridge that crosses the creek above Raven Cliff Falls. The bridge offers a unique view of the falls as they plunge deep into the mountain cove below.

Check out other South Carolina State Parks! Explore another mountainous area at Paris Mountain State Park or observe nature at a blistering pace on South Carolina mountain bike trails.