Renea Dauntes Becomes South Carolina’s 5,000th Ultimate Outsider
When Renea Dauntes crossed the final park off her list at Hampton Plantation, she officially became South Carolina State Parks’ 5,000th Ultimate Outsider, a milestone achievement for both her and the program. Her journey through the state parks took just eight months, beginning with a First Day Hike at Aiken State Park and ending with a whirlwind day that included Myrtle Beach, Huntington Beach, and Hampton Plantation.
“I had no idea about the Ultimate Outsider program at first,” she said. “I heard some rangers talking about it during that hike, and I got very excited. I’m a sucker for a reward challenge.”
Renea often explored on her own but sometimes brought along friends or family for beach days and fishing trips. Along the way, she even crossed paths with a park ranger who was also working toward Ultimate Outsider status, and together they managed to visit three parks in a single day. The hospitality and enthusiasm of park staff left lasting impressions as well. “Laura at Andrew Jackson State Park was an angel,” Renea recalled. “And the archaeologist at Colonial Dorchester was tremendous. I have a background in archaeology, and she let me ask all the questions.”
To commemorate her visits, Renea picked up a medallion from each park to add to her walking stick, a growing collection that tells the story of her adventure. “I also fill my water bottle at every artesian well I come across,” she says.
Originally from Texas, Renea moved to South Carolina in 2024 and decided to use the Ultimate Outsider program as a way to explore her new home. “Learning the history of the state and experiencing the wonders of the parks has been incredible."
When asked about her favorite park, Renea couldn’t narrow it down. Lee State Park became her place of peace. Sadlers Creek offered the best wildlife sightings. And at Kings Mountain, she discovered she was capable of more than she realized, even when the trail got tough. Some of her most memorable moments came as complete surprises, like watching a group of baby sea turtles make their way to the ocean at Edisto Beach State Park. “It was such an exciting treat,” she said.
Not every stop was easy, but each one taught her something. “It was rainy, and I was exhausted after visiting 14 parks in three days,” she said of her visit to Sadlers Creek. “But I pushed through a hike anyway and was rewarded with incredible bird sightings, including an indigo bunting, and even a deer family. It reminded me that pushing through is worth every step.”
For Renea, this accomplishment represents far more than stamps in a book. “I’ve dealt with depression for over 30 years,” she explained. “After moving to South Carolina, being unable to find a full-time job in my profession, and facing serious financial troubles, I was in a VERY dark place. Having the ability to go to a park gave me a place where I could just wander. There was no pressure, no stress. The parks became a haven. I knew, no matter where I was headed in the state, that a park would be close by. The parks, and the Ultimate Outsider program, kept me motivated at a time when I wanted to give up on everything else.”
Since the program’s launch in 2013, the Ultimate Outsider challenge has inspired thousands of visitors to explore all corners of South Carolina. What began as a way to encourage people to see more of the state’s natural diversity has grown into a community of explorers united by a shared love of the outdoors. Reaching 5,000 Ultimate Outsiders marks a major milestone for South Carolina State Parks, reflecting not only the dedication of participants like Renea but also the commitment of park staff who help create memorable experiences. “Ultimate Outsiders are some of the most passionate people you’ll ever meet—about nature, parks, and South Carolina itself,” said Mikaela Owens, program coordinator. “Their stories remind us why these places matter and why we do what we do.”
When Renea finally received her certificate, the emotions were overwhelming. “I cried,” she said. “I have a history of starting things and not finishing them, especially hard things. But this was confirmation that I can persevere. I was resilient. Even in my limited capacity, I could be the Ultimate Outsider.”
Renea hopes her story encourages others to take their time and savor the experience. She advises future participants to document their visits, return to parks in different seasons, and do more than collect stamps. “Walk a trail, fish, explore the exhibits, or just sit on a bench and take in the scenery,” she said. “Go slow, look up and down—you never know what small wonders you’ll see. And always carry water, snacks, and a walking stick.”
In her excitement to finish, Renea didn’t stop for photos at Hampton Plantation. So, we met her in person at the newly opened Pine Island State Park to properly celebrate her achievement. There, she finally got her photo with a ranger and a head start on her next adventure.
Though she’s achieved her goal, Renea’s adventures are far from over. She’s already opened a new book to start again, this time adding the Ultimate Outsider scavenger hunt to her plans. She hopes to revisit her favorite parks, try new activities like kayaking, and share the journey with a friend who’s begun their own challenge.
“I’m basically going to see them all again,” she says. “Because it will be like visiting an old friend.”
Check out photos from Renea's adventures below, and start your journey by ordering a Park Guide online or picking one up at any state park.
October 2025