Hampton Plantation was once a sprawling rice plantation along the Santee River. Built by generations of the Horry and Rutledge families with the labor of enslaved Africans, Hampton stands as a testament to the development of a distinct Lowcountry rice culture. As the plantation era ended, Hampton found new life as the subject of numerous works by South Carolina Poet Laureate Archibald Rutledge, the last private owner of Hampton. Today the park covers the history of Hampton through the lives of those who once called it home.
Hampton Plantation State Historic Site
1950 Rutledge Road
McClellanville, SC 29458
(843) 546-9361
hplantationsp@scprt.com
Students will be able to explore how life changed for former slaves at Hampton and in the American South in the years after the Civil War, in an era known as Reconstruction.
Online Field Trips Start Here:
Students explore the development of South Carolina, including the rise of plantations and the inequality between plantation owners and the enslaved Africans who made it possible.
Approximately $5.00 a student. Maximum of 60 students per day.
Call at (843) 546-9361 or email us at hplantationsp@scprt.com. Reservations can be made for any day between September and May.
We allow one free chaperone per 10 students. Additional chaperones/teachers are $7.50 each. Chaperones should come ready to participate and assist with activities. We also ask that chaperones refrain from using their cell phones during the programs.
From Georgetown: Head 16 miles south on Highway 17. After crossing the South Santee River Bridge, take your first right onto Rutledge Road. Hampton Plantation will be on your right after 2 miles.
From Charleston: Head north on Highway 17 for 40 miles to McClellanville. Continue 6 more miles and turn left onto Rutledge Road. Hampton Plantation will be on your right after 2 miles.
We have 10 picnic tables available in our picnic area. There are no covered shelters at Hampton Plantation.
Restrooms are on site, but we ask that students use the restroom before arriving so that we can begin promptly.
Programs take place on the grounds of Hampton Plantation and will take place rain or shine, so please dress appropriately for the weather. If weather is severe, the program will be moved to the interior of Hampton Plantation.
We recommend that you wear closed-toe shoes and bring insect repellent. We recommend that teachers have a first-aid kit in case of ant bites or bee stings.