Often it's just the 'big name' state parks such as Hunting Island and Table Rock that get all of the press. And even though many of our 47 state parks from the mountains to the sea may be smaller and not as well-known, they are still beautiful, shining stars just waiting to be discovered.

Meet your parks

The South Carolina State Parks Archaeology Newsletter is here! Follow archaeologists as they report on their active digs and findings at important historic South Carolina sites such as Charles Towne Landing and Colonial Dorchester. Plus, read great feature articles, meet archaeologists and get a heads-up on coming events.

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Psychologists tell us that the human being experiences a more joyful, pleasing reaction to an unexpected, pleasant surprise than to an expected pleasant experience. Director Phil Gaines reminds us that in South Carolina's state parks, it’s the small stuff that can both surprise and delight.

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Will the Charles Towne settlers survive through the cold winter months? Will they have enough food and resources? Experience this living history event that showcases the trades that helped support the fledgling colony and focuses on the daily life chores that were essential to survival. A don’t-miss event.

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Join photographer, jon o. holloway and history author Cal Harrison, and foreword author Rudy Mancke for an evening discussion on their collaborative work, Beautiful Places: The Timeless Beauty of South Carolina State Parks. Sip a cup of hot cider, enjoy the open discussion and get your own signed copy.

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Help protect our parks and enjoy your own copy of Beautiful Places, The Timeless Beauty of South Carolina State Parks, written by Chad Prosser, with stunning photos by jon o. holloway and a fascinating look at the history of our parks by Cal Harrison.

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Watch nature’s mountain show live from our Table Rock webcam as autumn colors paint the face of Table Rock Mountain. With two lakes, a campground, mountain cabins, meeting facilities and an historic, renovated lodge, Table Rock State Park offers the perfect upcountry retreat.

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Here they are for your camping table enjoyment – the 1st prize main dish and dessert recipes from the 2nd annual South Carolina Campground Cookoff. Congratulations to Tiffany and Darryl Parsons for their Fo-Me Chicken and Fixings and to the Rhodes family for their Campfire Chocolate Éclairs!

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