Fall For State Parks

One of the joys of living in South Carolina is the opportunity to truly experience the four seasons. I’ll be the first to admit that winter can be rather short, summer often creeps into spring and extends into the fall. Regardless of their length, each season brings with it new discoveries and great opportunities to experience your state parks.

October is a special month when Mother Nature puts on quite a show before taking a restful winter break.



In South Carolina, you see, feel and sense the change. The days shorten, temperatures become crisp and summer’s often overlooked green foliage begins a slow transformation that signals something spectacular is about to happen.



With a vivid palette of red, orange and gold sprinkled with green and brown, the announcement is made that it is indeed a special time of year and there's much to see and do!



Ever notice the one tree in the neighborhood that seems to signify fall? The one tree ablaze with color before all the rest heralding the change that is to come.



Now imagine that tree beside hundreds just as brilliant, with a mountain backdrop, a lake, a 19th-century farm or a frontier outpost. This is fall in your state parks.



The early turning yellow poplars, red maples, and gums are beginning to show some color, and while the changing of the leaves seem to be a little earlier this year, they will as usual put on quite a show.



This great show only takes place once a year, so you don’t want to miss it.



During the 75th Anniversary Celebration we’ve made sure you have some ideas and help in making this a fall to remember.



So when will the leaves be at their peak? Here are some good indicators.



Watch for that neighborhood tree, that first cold snap and check out the fall foliage section of our website where we will have a live webcam facing Table Rock Mountain! Visit the site often and watch fall arrive and winter approach! Then make plans and “fall for your state parks."



Have a picnic with a backdrop of fall colors and memories that will last forever. Stay in a cabin or go camping, as fall is the perfect time to experience your parks. There’s something about the warmth a fire and the unforgettable smells of a campfire.



Don't miss the programs and festivals. At Kings Mountain's Living History Farm, the Fall Festival will include hayrides, a blacksmith in the forge, re-enactors, plenty of pumpkins and more. Enjoy mountain music at the Table Rock State Park Lodge and autumn hikes so you can explore the wonders of fall up close.



We are so lucky to live here in South Carolina where we have the four seasons and one of the most varied and long lasting fall color seasons anywhere. And it happens in our own backyard. There is truly no better time than fall to “come out and play”!



See you in the parks this fall!



Phil