9 Places In South Carolina Way Out In The Boonies But So Worth The Drive

Some people actually prefer "the boonies" over city life. Imagine that. Maybe that's why these remote places to visit in South Carolina are thriving hot spots of awesomeness. It's because someone somewhere along the way figured it out. "The boonies" are where it's at. Check out these nine incredible places in the Palmetto State that are worth the effort and time to get there.

1. Grits & Groceries - Belton, SC

If ever there was a "destination restaurant" worthy of an endless journey, it would be Grits and Groceries! Fortunately, while this amazing eatery is theoretically in the middle of nowhere it won't take forever for you to get there. The journey is only a fraction of the adventure. At Grits and Groceries you'll find southern soul food with a special twist. Like this Praline Pecan Bacon, or the occasional surreal special shown above...the Frog Cobbler. If you're hours away, consider booking a room in the upstate so you can come back the next day for more great food! Learn more about Grits & Groceries at their website.

Address: 2440 Due West Hwy, Belton, SC 29627

2. The Big Mo' - Monetta Drive-In - Monetta, SC

The Big Mo is a big chill thrill out in the middle of nowhere. With three screens, this drive-in features three double feature movies each weekend for the price of one regular movie. Wow! Nostalgic and affordable. And the movies aren't those old outdated ones either. They range from recent releases to classic titles. Of course those titles will change so you can check for current listings and movie times on this page of their website. Is the Big Mo out in the boonies? Yes. They're about 8 miles off Interstate 20's exit 33. Driving directions can be found here.Address: 5822 Columbia Hwy N, Monetta, SC 29105

3. Biggin Church ruins - Moncks Corner, SC

By all accounts, the ruins here at Biggin Church are most likely from the fourth church structure erected on this property. The first church was established here in 1712 in what was the intersection of three important trade routes. Wander the 15 acres at this historic site and marvel at the architectural detail of the existing ruins that were built sometime in the late 1800s. Even though the church from 1712 is long gone, the cemetery is not. The graves of statesmen, dignitaries and regular citizens date from present day all the way back through three centuries. This remote church ruins and community graveyard are worth the drive over to Berkeley County. Address: Highway 402, Moncks Corner, SC 29461

4. Fletcher's Finds - Yemassee, SC

People who've been to Fletcher's Finds rave about the food, the atmosphere and the people. But mostly, they can't believe they actually found this hidden gem located several miles off Interstate 95's exit 38.You'll find great eats, like the double-decker bacon cheeseburger and fries shown here. Plus Fletchers has unique antiques and collectibles as well. A warning, or maybe it's a promise, you may be surprisingly caught off guard by the unassuming atmosphere of this marvelous "find" out in the middle of nowhere. Check for opening times and more by visiting the Fletcher's Finds Facebook page.

Address: 21 Castle Hall Rd # 17, Yemassee, SC 29945

5. The Canopy Walk at Lynches River County Park - Coward, SC

Walk among the treetops at Lynches River County Park in Coward, South Carolina, if you dare!

This former state park-turned county park has 676 acres of recreational opportunities including a canopy walk that may turn your stomach. But the good news is that it's absolutely free! Not that Coward is in the middle of nowhere, but it is "out there," and located about 15 miles south of downtown Florence, or several miles to the east of Interstate 95. You can read more about this fun spot in this other article

Address: 5094 County Park Rd, Coward, SC 29530

6. Firefly Distillery - Wadmalaw Island, SC

Seriously. In the middle. Of. Nowhere. And worth the effort to get there! Besides, it's a gorgeous drive.Firefly Distillery is South Carolina's largest distiller and creator of the original Sweet Tea Vodka, among other innovative concoctions. Take a tour of the grounds, wander about (most places) freely and then purchase an affordable "sampling" of the tasty sensations created here. Must be 21 to purchase a sampling, but you knew that, right? Visit the Firefly Distillery website to learn more.

Address: 6775 Bears Bluff Rd, Wadmalaw Island, SC 29487

7. Magnolia House & Gardens Inn - Clover, SC

Magnolia House and Gardens is a charming bed and breakfast located in the northern most part of South Carolina. And while the Town of Clover boasts a population of more than 5,000 residents, it's located so far to the north that it's really quite an escape for most South Carolinians.This charming inn occupies a circa 1890 home on Main Street in Clover. It's perfect for a weekend getaway or even for a small wedding party. Enjoy the comfort and hospitality of Magnolia House and Gardens. Nearby excursions include Kings Mountain State Park as well as Crowders Mountain State Park. More information here. Address: 221 N Main St, Clover, SC 29710

8. Hamilton Branch State Park - Plum Branch, SC

Whether you love camping with wheels under your bed, or you prefer it tent-style, Hamilton Branch State Park is the hidden gem in South Carolina that you've been looking for.Camp alongside Strom Thurmond Lake way out in the middle of nowhere, yet right off Highway 221 along the South Carolina/Georgia border. This well-kept and quiet state park is a peaceful way to get away from everything and spend a few days in nature. More information here at the South Carolina Parks website.Address: 111 Campground RD, Plum Branch, SC 29845

9. Riley Moore Falls - between Westminster, SC and Long Creek, SC

Riley Moore Falls is in the middle of nowhere and absolutely stunning. This great waterfall is located off Highway 76 in the western part of the state and is definitely worth the trip.The falls are no more than a 15-foot drop but they span the entire width of the Chauga River. Additionally, the colors seen at the base of the falls are breathtaking, as seen in the photo above and in this video taken by YouTube user James Joiner. Here is the Google Map location for Riley Moore Falls. Enjoy!

From destination restaurants to a remote waterfall and even a daredevil canopy walk, this list of places way out in the middle of nowhere will keep you busy for months to come. What do you say? Are you up for a drive in the country? Have you already visited any of these remote places to visit in South Carolina? Or do you know of others you'd like to add to the list? Feel free to tell us your suggestions on our nomination page!