These 15 Incredible Places In South Carolina Will Bring Out The Explorer In You

Here in South Carolina, we're blessed with an abundance of beautiful places to explore. From the rolling mountains to the sprawling coast, every square mile of the Palmetto State seems to hold some kind of treasure. Living in a state as fascinating and beautiful as South Carolina means we can explore that grandeur with abandonment. Here are the 15 best places to explore in South Carolina, from natural preserves to chapels and just about everything in between. Don't forget to bring your camera!

1. Poinsett Bridge Heritage Preserve

This amazing preserve is located just north of Greenville. The bridge itself was built in 1820 and is thought to be the oldest surviving bridge of South Carolina. Plus, you can walk across this bridge for fantastic views of South Carolina.

2. Old Sheldon Church

The Old Sheldon Church ruins are found in Yemassee. First completed in 1753, this church has a positively fascinating history. In fact, if you're looking for a fun day trip in South Carolina, Yemassee makes for a great destination.

3. Sassafras Mountain

Sassafras Mountain is the highest mountain that is totally inside the South Carolina borders. And, surprisingly enough, Sassafras doesn't grow on on this mountain at all! But, it could be fun trying to find it anyway just to prove someone wrong. And just wait until you see the observation tower and highest overlook in South Carolina!

4. Stumphouse Tunnel

Stumphouse Tunnel Park is found near Walhalla. It was supposed to be a railroad tunnel but didn't get completed due to insufficient funding. From the 1950s to the 1970s, Clemson University used the tunnel to grow blue cheese. Now, it's a place to explore. You'll also find the Issaqueena Falls nearby. Would you walk through this fascinating and historic tunnel in South Carolina?

5. Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve

Forty Acre Rock is found in Kershaw. This is a spectacular place to go exploring and there is so much ground to cover...literally! Learn more about how you can explore colorful natural pools in South Carolina when you take this 1.7-mile trail. Unfortunately, vandals have defaced a lot of the rock so if you go there, please be sure to only leave footprints.

6. Landsford Canal State Park

Landsford Canal State Park is found in Catawba. This place is fabulous. It has the world's largest population of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies. They have a Lily Festival in May of each year when they bloom. The park is home to not only the lilies, but a well-preserved canal system that was built in 1820 to make the Catawba River navigable. When it comes to adventures in South Carolina, this abandoned 200-year-old canal certainly qualifies.

7. ACE Basin

The ACE Basin was established to promote conservation of the land. It's a combination of the Ashepoo, Combahee, and Edisto Rivers. Without a doubt, the ACE basin is one of South Carolina's natural wonders. It covers a huge amount of land so don't think you'll see it all in one day. There's always something new and exciting to see.

8. Kiawah Island

Kiawah Island is a barrier island found off the coast of South Carolina. There are resorts here and golf courses, but they haven't tamed the entire island. Just outside the borders of those places you'll find that adventure awaits you. Plus, there's a little-known public beach on Kiawah Island with the bluest water you've ever seen.

9. Congaree National Park

Found in Hopkins, the Congaree National Park has the most astonishing biodiversity. It also has the largest tract of old growth bottomland hardwood forest in the southeastern United States. Curious to learn more about this underrated national park?

10. Caesar's Head State Park

Caesar's Head State Park encompasses a lot of land like much of the state parks in the Upstate. When you're including mountains, the area tends to get pretty big, pretty quick. There are gorgeous falls such as Raven Cliffs and others as well as views that will stun you. Hiking this easy loop trail in South Carolina, you'll feel like you're on top of the world.

11. Jones Gap State Park

Jones Gap is not far from Caesar's Head, but they are all different sites including different mountains and different falls. The mountains are so beautiful and relaxing that exploring would be a treat. Learn more about why Jones Gap State Park is one of the best parks in South Carolina.

12. Jocassee Gorges

The Jocassee Gorges are found in Devils Fork State Park. They are a wonder all to themselves.

13. Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge

Located in Bluffton, the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge covers over 4,000 acres! Exploring here is a real treat for bird watchers. Bring a camera because you're definitely going to miss out on some amazing pictures if you don't. It's truly one of the most breathtaking destinations in South Carolina.

14. Chau Ram County Park

This is Oconee County's best kept secret! There's so much beauty to see here that you will go back again and again. Plus, there's even a waterfall campground to enjoy here.

15. Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge

Last but not least on our list of the best places to explore in South Carolina is the Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge. Carolina Sandhills covers approximately 46,000 acres. Talk about having a wide open space to explore! This place is known for its large population of birds. Learn more about this incredible South Carolina sand dune.

If these don't bring out your inner explorer then nothing will! South Carolina is such a beautiful place, and we're grateful for all the places that can be explored in our very own backyard. Another great thing about all of these places is that you can bring your children and make it a family affair. There is magic out there to be discovered! Do you agree that these are the best places to explore in South Carolina? Which destinations would you add to the list? Be sure to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you!