Hiking in South Carolina is always an adventure, but sometimes you don’t want to head out to unfamiliar territory and search for trailheads and such. These occasions are perfect for visiting one of our many state parks to enjoy a hike or two. Trails and trailheads are always clearly marked in our wonderful state parks, making this an easy, enjoyable, fun-filled day. Below are the top 10 state parks to visit in South Carolina for hiking, as ranked by our friends over at AllTrails.com. We selected our favorite trail to share from each park. Add these to your bucket list and enjoy the adventures!
- Table Rock State Park - Pickens
AllTrails/Jessica Varney Our list of the best state parks to visit in South Carolina for hiking begins at Table Rock State Park. There are six trails at Table Rock State Park, ranging from the easy, 1.9-mile looped Lakeside Trail that circles Pinnacle Lake passing by a historic rock boat landing, below the historic lodge, and the 1930s CCC spillway. And, if you’re up for it, the park’s 3.6-mile Table Rock Trail is the cream of the crop. This hike will take you all day because it’s ALL uphill. The hike is rated as strenuous so come prepared to work. The payoff is worth the effort, though, as the views from the top of Table Rock are astounding! Learn more about all of the trails at Table Rock State Park here. And get more details about the difficult Table Rock Trail right here. Table Rock State Park, 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
- Jones Gap State Park - Marietta
AllTrails/Tyler Johnson There are 30 miles of hiking trails (eight trails, total) that network through Jones Gap State Park. The park is possibly the most sought-after state park ticket ever; it’s small and entrance is limited daily. Scoring an entry ticket for Jones Gap is akin to winning the state park lottery. Plan to spend all day, unless you reserve one of the handful of backcountry campsites and stay the night. All of the trails here are trip-worthy, but if we had to pick JUST ONE to recommend, we’d definitely recommend heading into the the middle of the forest to see Rainbow Falls. The hike is 2.2 miles each way and is rated as moderately difficult by AllTrails.com. Still, finding yourself standing at the base of this wondrous 100-foot spectacle that radiates colors of the rainbow at different times of the day is a stupendous adventure. Learn more about Jones Gap State Park and how to gain entry into the park, by visiting the official website for South Carolina Parks. Jones Gap State Park, 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA
- Caesars Head State Park - Cleveland
digidreamgrafix / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images The shortest hike on our list today is found at Ceasars Head State Park. While the park has other trails (like the 4.4-mile hike to an overlook for the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls), it’s the main overlook near the visitor center that you won’t want to miss. After a short 0.3-mile walk out to a massive rocky overlook on the Caesars Head Overlook Trail, you’ll be staring into a wonderland of the escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From here, even without the aid of the quarter-powered viewfinder, you can see all the way to Table Rock. What a view! Learn more about one of our favorite state parks right here on the official SC State Parks’ website. Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center, 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
- Paris Mountain State Park - Greenville
AllTrails/Rob Williams Visitors to Park Mountain State Park can easily wander in wonder for a full day if desired. The park has a number of trails worthy of exploration like the Fire Tower or the Sulphur Springs Trails (and more). But it’s the trail right inside that gate that will capture your heart. The Lake Placid Trail is less than a mile (0.8 in length) and circles the lake with water and mountain views at which to gawk with your jaw wide open and eyes that won’t want to blink for fear of missing a single moment. Over by the spillway, steps lead down to a wooden bridge that crosses the water flow after is pours over the hand-laid rocks that create the dam for reservoir #2. One of the dreamiest state parks in the system is located only miles from downtown Greenville. Have you visited yet? Get more info about the park here and learn about each of the trails from our friends over at AllTrails.com. Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, USA
- Keowee-Toxaway State Park - Sunset
AllTrails/Cathy Robertson Cross Poe Creek over a natural bridge (possibly the state’s only one of its kind) and then circle the park on this loop that has some awe-inspiring views of beautiful Lake Keowee from high above. At 4.4 miles, this trail is rated as moderate by AllTrails, but that is mostly due to the length. The total elevation gain is only 836 feet. Most people finish the Raven Rock Loop Trail right at about three hours of hiking. Pull out those boots and give it a go! Learn more from this link. Keowee Toxaway State Park, 108 Residence Dr, Sunset, SC 29685, USA
- Oconee State Park - Mountain Rest/Walhalla area
Google/Miss C If you have yet to experience the magic of Oconee State Park, then add this spot to the top of your bucket list of places to visit in South Carolina! With 139 standard campsites, 15 rustic tent sites, and 19 rustic cabins, the park offers every opportunity to spend more than just a day here. Adventure abounds on the park’s seven trails, including the Oconee Station Station Cove Falls Trail that leads to a 60-foot wide-berth waterfall on the 1.6-mile easy trail. Bring the camper, the tent, or rent a cabin and take a mini-vacation at this fantastic South Carolina State Park. Learn more here. Oconee State Park, 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA
- Sesquicentennial State Park - Columbia
AllTrails/Chastity K Last, but certainly not least on our list of the best state parks to visit in South Carolina for hiking is Sesquicentennial State Park. Sesquicentennial (called Sess’-key by the locals) is found 12 miles from downtown Columbia. Here, visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and non-motorized fishing boats to enjoy on the 30-acre lake. And if you really want the full Seski experience, then you’ll take a play from the park manager’s book and hike the 3.5-miles Loop Road Trail. Park Manager John Wells loves the 100-foot bridge that crosses Jackson Creek along this scenic trail. There is barely any elevation gain on this 3.5-mile loop through the forest. So enjoy a quiet stroll at your own pace and soak up the natural beauty. Learn more about Sesquicentennial State Park and all of its amenities with a visit the official website for South Carolina Parks. Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA
Can’t get enough of the amazing state parks to visit in South Carolina? Here are the state’s top 8th, 9th, and 10th state park trails at Landsford Canal State Park, Croft State Park, and Huntington Beach State Park!
AllTrails/Jessica Varney
Our list of the best state parks to visit in South Carolina for hiking begins at Table Rock State Park. There are six trails at Table Rock State Park, ranging from the easy, 1.9-mile looped Lakeside Trail that circles Pinnacle Lake passing by a historic rock boat landing, below the historic lodge, and the 1930s CCC spillway. And, if you’re up for it, the park’s 3.6-mile Table Rock Trail is the cream of the crop. This hike will take you all day because it’s ALL uphill. The hike is rated as strenuous so come prepared to work. The payoff is worth the effort, though, as the views from the top of Table Rock are astounding! Learn more about all of the trails at Table Rock State Park here. And get more details about the difficult Table Rock Trail right here.
Table Rock State Park, 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
AllTrails/Tyler Johnson
There are 30 miles of hiking trails (eight trails, total) that network through Jones Gap State Park. The park is possibly the most sought-after state park ticket ever; it’s small and entrance is limited daily. Scoring an entry ticket for Jones Gap is akin to winning the state park lottery. Plan to spend all day, unless you reserve one of the handful of backcountry campsites and stay the night. All of the trails here are trip-worthy, but if we had to pick JUST ONE to recommend, we’d definitely recommend heading into the the middle of the forest to see Rainbow Falls. The hike is 2.2 miles each way and is rated as moderately difficult by AllTrails.com. Still, finding yourself standing at the base of this wondrous 100-foot spectacle that radiates colors of the rainbow at different times of the day is a stupendous adventure. Learn more about Jones Gap State Park and how to gain entry into the park, by visiting the official website for South Carolina Parks.
Jones Gap State Park, 303 Jones Gap Rd, Marietta, SC 29661, USA
digidreamgrafix / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection via Getty Images
The shortest hike on our list today is found at Ceasars Head State Park. While the park has other trails (like the 4.4-mile hike to an overlook for the 420-foot Raven Cliff Falls), it’s the main overlook near the visitor center that you won’t want to miss. After a short 0.3-mile walk out to a massive rocky overlook on the Caesars Head Overlook Trail, you’ll be staring into a wonderland of the escarpment of the Blue Ridge Mountains. From here, even without the aid of the quarter-powered viewfinder, you can see all the way to Table Rock. What a view! Learn more about one of our favorite state parks right here on the official SC State Parks’ website.
Caesars Head State Park Visitor Center, 8155 Geer Hwy, Cleveland, SC 29635, USA
AllTrails/Rob Williams
Visitors to Park Mountain State Park can easily wander in wonder for a full day if desired. The park has a number of trails worthy of exploration like the Fire Tower or the Sulphur Springs Trails (and more). But it’s the trail right inside that gate that will capture your heart. The Lake Placid Trail is less than a mile (0.8 in length) and circles the lake with water and mountain views at which to gawk with your jaw wide open and eyes that won’t want to blink for fear of missing a single moment. Over by the spillway, steps lead down to a wooden bridge that crosses the water flow after is pours over the hand-laid rocks that create the dam for reservoir #2. One of the dreamiest state parks in the system is located only miles from downtown Greenville. Have you visited yet? Get more info about the park here and learn about each of the trails from our friends over at AllTrails.com.
Paris Mountain State Park, 2401 State Park Rd, Greenville, SC 29609, USA
AllTrails/Cathy Robertson
Cross Poe Creek over a natural bridge (possibly the state’s only one of its kind) and then circle the park on this loop that has some awe-inspiring views of beautiful Lake Keowee from high above. At 4.4 miles, this trail is rated as moderate by AllTrails, but that is mostly due to the length. The total elevation gain is only 836 feet. Most people finish the Raven Rock Loop Trail right at about three hours of hiking. Pull out those boots and give it a go! Learn more from this link.
Keowee Toxaway State Park, 108 Residence Dr, Sunset, SC 29685, USA
Google/Miss C
If you have yet to experience the magic of Oconee State Park, then add this spot to the top of your bucket list of places to visit in South Carolina! With 139 standard campsites, 15 rustic tent sites, and 19 rustic cabins, the park offers every opportunity to spend more than just a day here. Adventure abounds on the park’s seven trails, including the Oconee Station Station Cove Falls Trail that leads to a 60-foot wide-berth waterfall on the 1.6-mile easy trail. Bring the camper, the tent, or rent a cabin and take a mini-vacation at this fantastic South Carolina State Park. Learn more here.
Oconee State Park, 624 State Park Rd, Mountain Rest, SC 29664, USA
AllTrails/Chastity K
Last, but certainly not least on our list of the best state parks to visit in South Carolina for hiking is Sesquicentennial State Park. Sesquicentennial (called Sess’-key by the locals) is found 12 miles from downtown Columbia. Here, visitors can rent kayaks, canoes, paddle boards, and non-motorized fishing boats to enjoy on the 30-acre lake. And if you really want the full Seski experience, then you’ll take a play from the park manager’s book and hike the 3.5-miles Loop Road Trail. Park Manager John Wells loves the 100-foot bridge that crosses Jackson Creek along this scenic trail. There is barely any elevation gain on this 3.5-mile loop through the forest. So enjoy a quiet stroll at your own pace and soak up the natural beauty. Learn more about Sesquicentennial State Park and all of its amenities with a visit the official website for South Carolina Parks.
Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA
What’s your favorite state park trail in South Carolina? Add it to this list by leaving a comment!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in South Carolina February 09, 2022 Beth C. What are the most beautiful state parks in South Carolina? South Carolina is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Not only does the state boast some of the most beautiful coastal views in the country, but there are also mountain landscapes, riverfronts, and breathtaking farmlands to enjoy. There are few better ways to enjoy all that South Carolina has to offer than by visiting one of the many state parks. These parks truly have something for everyone: beautiful outdoor scenery, recreational adventures, educational opportunities, and more. Some of the most popular state parks in South Carolina include the following: Table Rock State Park, Caesars Head State Park, Hunting Island State Park, Lynches River County Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, Paris Mountain State Park, Andrew Jackson State Park, Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, Huntington Beach State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, Jones Gap State Park, Poinsett State Park, Lake Hartwell State Park, Landsford Canal State Park, and Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Curious to learn more about these places? Check out our previous article: 15 Gorgeous State Parks In South Carolina That Will Knock Your Socks Off. Does South Carolina have any natural wonders? You bet! If you’re looking for some of the most impressive natural beauty that South Carolina has to offer, we’ve got you covered. And the good news is that no matter which region of the state you happen to be exploring, you’re bound to find yourself close to one of these natural wonders. These gems include Angel Oak, ACE Basin, Boneyard Beach, Carolina Bays, Congaree National Park, Edisto River, Raven Cliff Falls, 40 Acre Rock, Centennial Tree, Capers Island, Healing Springs, the Sandhills, and Peachtree Rock. Did you know about these fascinating natural wonders in South Carolina? You can learn more about each of them when you read our previous piece, Here Are The 13 Most Incredible Natural Wonders In South Carolina.
The OIYS Visitor Center
state parks to visit in South Carolina
February 09, 2022
Beth C.
What are the most beautiful state parks in South Carolina? South Carolina is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Not only does the state boast some of the most beautiful coastal views in the country, but there are also mountain landscapes, riverfronts, and breathtaking farmlands to enjoy. There are few better ways to enjoy all that South Carolina has to offer than by visiting one of the many state parks. These parks truly have something for everyone: beautiful outdoor scenery, recreational adventures, educational opportunities, and more. Some of the most popular state parks in South Carolina include the following: Table Rock State Park, Caesars Head State Park, Hunting Island State Park, Lynches River County Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, Paris Mountain State Park, Andrew Jackson State Park, Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, Huntington Beach State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, Jones Gap State Park, Poinsett State Park, Lake Hartwell State Park, Landsford Canal State Park, and Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Curious to learn more about these places? Check out our previous article: 15 Gorgeous State Parks In South Carolina That Will Knock Your Socks Off. Does South Carolina have any natural wonders? You bet! If you’re looking for some of the most impressive natural beauty that South Carolina has to offer, we’ve got you covered. And the good news is that no matter which region of the state you happen to be exploring, you’re bound to find yourself close to one of these natural wonders. These gems include Angel Oak, ACE Basin, Boneyard Beach, Carolina Bays, Congaree National Park, Edisto River, Raven Cliff Falls, 40 Acre Rock, Centennial Tree, Capers Island, Healing Springs, the Sandhills, and Peachtree Rock. Did you know about these fascinating natural wonders in South Carolina? You can learn more about each of them when you read our previous piece, Here Are The 13 Most Incredible Natural Wonders In South Carolina.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
South Carolina is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. Not only does the state boast some of the most beautiful coastal views in the country, but there are also mountain landscapes, riverfronts, and breathtaking farmlands to enjoy. There are few better ways to enjoy all that South Carolina has to offer than by visiting one of the many state parks. These parks truly have something for everyone: beautiful outdoor scenery, recreational adventures, educational opportunities, and more. Some of the most popular state parks in South Carolina include the following: Table Rock State Park, Caesars Head State Park, Hunting Island State Park, Lynches River County Park, Sesquicentennial State Park, Paris Mountain State Park, Andrew Jackson State Park, Musgrove Mill State Historic Site, Huntington Beach State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, Jones Gap State Park, Poinsett State Park, Lake Hartwell State Park, Landsford Canal State Park, and Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Curious to learn more about these places? Check out our previous article: 15 Gorgeous State Parks In South Carolina That Will Knock Your Socks Off.
Does South Carolina have any natural wonders?
You bet! If you’re looking for some of the most impressive natural beauty that South Carolina has to offer, we’ve got you covered. And the good news is that no matter which region of the state you happen to be exploring, you’re bound to find yourself close to one of these natural wonders. These gems include Angel Oak, ACE Basin, Boneyard Beach, Carolina Bays, Congaree National Park, Edisto River, Raven Cliff Falls, 40 Acre Rock, Centennial Tree, Capers Island, Healing Springs, the Sandhills, and Peachtree Rock. Did you know about these fascinating natural wonders in South Carolina? You can learn more about each of them when you read our previous piece, Here Are The 13 Most Incredible Natural Wonders In South Carolina.
