A Nature Lovers Definitive Guide To South Carolina’s Natural Beauty – Parks, Beaches, Hikes And More!

South Carolina’s brimming with so many gems, it’s really not that surprising that we can overlook some of them. That just makes discovering them all the more special. Of the 47 state parks in South Carolina, some are much lesser known than their popular counterparts. Jones Gap State Park in Marietta, for example, is all about gorgeous natural beauty, including cascading waterfalls and lush green scenery. Slip on your hiking boots if you’re up for a bit of exploration along one of the 28 miles of hiking trails. For simply spellbinding views, that includes a 100-foot waterfall, follow the 4.3-mile Rainbow Falls Trail. If a day at the park simply isn’t enough to give you your fill of nature, plan an overnight, pitching your tent among the canopy of forest trees. What other natural wonders will you discover on your visit to Jones Gap State Park?

Can you think of a more perfect place to find peace, quiet, and natural beauty than along one of South Carolina’s most pristine, unspoiled beaches? Every part of your journey to and at Driftwood Beach, including the drive under a gorgeous tunnel of trees, offers magical moments. The beauty of the driftwood, artistically shaped in different forms, will likely leave you breathless as you trek along the half-mile walking path that’s brimming with scenic views. The sand and the water, of course, boast spellbinding views, but if you happen to visit in the summer, you just might be treated to a scene of sunflowers. What stunning photos will you snap at Driftwood Beach?

A massive 7,500-acre manmade reservoir, Lake Jocassee oozes natural beauty with its crystal clear water and predominately undeveloped shoreline. While the water’s appearance is reminiscent of the tropics, the water is cold, so you’re sure to cool off on a simmering day. The sandy beach that leads into the cool lake is perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the views. If you prefer spending time on the water instead of in the water, go kayaking or boating. The best place to enjoy Lake Jocassee is Devils Fork State Park in Salem, which is open all year around. Chances are you’ll want to stay longer than a day, so consider booking a spot at one of the campgrounds. What’s your favorite part of visiting Lake Jocassee?

Finding unspoiled destinations to escape to in South Carolina isn’t too difficult, especially if you’re a fan of Edisto Beach. The somewhat remote island, which is more than an hour from the hustle and bustle of city life, is home to less than 400 full-time residents and offers plenty to explore. Stroll along the island that’s dotted with restaurants and shops. For a day of sheer tranquility among nature, head to Edisto Beach State Park, where you’ll find more than a mile of gorgeous, sandy beach. The beach can get busy, especially on the weekends, but it’s an ideal destination for kicking back and relaxing. What attraction draws you to Edisto Beach?

Hiking’s one of the best ways to explore all corners of South Carolina, and we have no shortage of trails, ranging from easy to difficult, to follow. One of the best trails in South Carolina features a full menu of stunning scenery – footbridges, winding staircases, and a breathtaking waterfall. Rainbow Falls Trail, in Jones Gap State Park, spans just under 4.5 miles, and you’ll have to work to get there. Rated difficult because of its steep climbs, the trail is certainly worth the effort, if you’re up for the challenge. Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be in for a real treat if you’re lucky enough to visit at just the right time. Rainbow Falls, which tumbles down 100 feet, richly deserves its name as it shows off a variety of colors at different times of the day. Carve out enough time to visit the rest of the state park, too.Will you see the colors of the rainbow along the Rainbow Falls Trail?

Separating South Carolina and Georgia, the Savannah River meanders 301 miles, making it the longest river in South Carolina. For some of the most stunning views of the river, make your way to North Augusta or to Calhoun Falls State Park in Calhoun Falls. The park is the perfect spot for a day in or on the water swimming, boating, and fishing. You might even want to have a picnic as you admire the views of the most beautiful river in South Carolina. Where’s your favorite place to explore and admire the Savannah River?

South Carolina’s home to a ton of unique destinations, and Kings Mountain in Blacksburg just might be one of the most unique. The creation of Kings Mountain was the result of an arc or a chain of volcanoes. Today, visitors can visit both the mountain and the fascinating arc of volcanos, which look like chiseled rock formations. You can explore the chain of volcanos, created by cooled lava, at Kings Mountain State Park or Kings Mountain National Military Park. You’ll definitely want to bring your camera along, because both parks are drenched with beauty, including a cascading waterfall, sensational mountain views, and the chain of volcanoes. Which park will you visit to explore the volcano chains by Kings Mountain?

A stroll through a garden often promises beautiful views of colorful flowers, towering trees, and other plant life. However, the most unique garden in South Carolina is a little bit different than what you’d expect from a traditional garden. The Audubon Swamp Garden, tucked in Magnolia Plantation and Gardens in Charleston, spans 60 gorgeous acres dotted with some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of South Carolina. Meander through the swamp garden, where you’ll pass towering trees, plenty of lush green, a winding boardwalk, and a picturesque footbridge. The garden’s teeming with local wildlife, too, making it extremely important to never venture off of the marked path. You might run into such beautiful wildlife as alligators, egrets, and herons. What’s your favorite part of The Audubon Swamp Garden?