Hello! My name is Daniel Bailey and I am the park manager at Croft State Park. I first realized I wanted to be a park ranger while working as a college intern at Paris Mountain State Park. I quickly discovered that the job combined many things I enjoyed—being outdoors, serving people, protecting natural resources and helping others experience the outdoors. I knew pretty quickly that I had found my career.
One of my favorite things about Croft is its history. From the families and communities that settled this area long before the park existed, to the creation of Camp Croft during World War II, there are layers of history throughout the property. I enjoy that visitors can experience the outdoors while also discovering the stories that shaped this place.
If you’re visiting Croft for the first time, I’d recommend spending time exploring the trail system. Whether hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding, the trails take you through beautiful scenery and quieter parts of the park. Along the way, you might come across old homesites, historic remnants, wildlife, streams, and other unique features that showcase just how much there is to discover throughout Croft.
**Our Ultimate Outsider stamp is located at the park kiosk just outside the park office. The park office is about three miles down from the main gate.
Once an army training base, Croft State Park covers more than 7,000 acres of rolling, wooded terrain just a few miles from downtown Spartanburg. The park offers over 20 miles
of biking and hiking trails, a playground, picnicking and camping, as well as fishing and boating in one of two lakes.
Horseback riding in South Carolina state parks is widely popular, and Croft is known around the region for its equestrian facilities. The park regularly hosts shows in its arena and boasts more than 20 miles of equestrian trails.