Kings Mountain State Park Is an Underrated South Carolina State Park For Fall

Fall is in the air, which means it’s time for you to start planning your epic fall adventures in South Carolina. Watching the leaves change is one of my favorite fall activities, and we are lucky that there are plenty of state parks in South Carolina where we can view the fall foliage. While popular parks like Table Rock and Devils Fork are deserving of a day trip, there’s one underrated state park in South Carolina that will dazzle you this fall. 

Boasting nearly 7,000 acres, 16 miles of hiking trails, two fishing lakes, and a living history farm, Kings Mountain State Park is pure perfection in the fall. Kings Mountain State Park sits on the North Carolina/South Carolina border in York County, South Carolina. It’s actually only about 40 miles southwest of Charlotte! The park was established in 1934, mostly developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. 

Speaking of the CCC, make sure you check out the spillway at Kings Mountain State Park. Not only is it a fabulous example of CCC dam construction, but it’s also a beautifully scenic area in the fall, and it’s honestly a perfect picnic spot. Grab some grub beforehand and enjoy a picnic or some snacks by the dam. 

Things to do at Kings Mountain State Park

One of the best reasons to visit Kings Mountain State Park is the wide range of activities. Whether you’re a history buff, a hiker, an equestrian, or an angler, you’ll find something to keep you entertained. It’s also a dog-friendly park, so bring the whole family out for a fall adventure. 

Living History Farm at Kings Mountain State Park

Kings Mountain State Park is home to a Living History Farm where visitors can wander around a replica of a 19th-century South Carolina yeoman farm. The farm includes a barn, farm animals, a cotton gin, and a blacksmith/carpentry shop. 

The historic garden at the Living History Farm is also a must-see. Lower-class yeoman farmers needed to grow their own food (as well as make their own medicines and grow cotton to make their own clothing). Here, you’ll learn about the variety of crops grown, which range from herbs to fruit trees and even a small grape vineyard. It’s a fascinating time capsule that gives you a glimpse into what life was like over a century ago. 

Trails at Kings Mountain State Park

There are several hiking trails at Kings Mountain State Park, plus a 30+ mile horse trail. The 16-mile Kings Mountain Hiking Trail is a moderately difficult loop trail that takes you on a scenic hike through the hardwood forest, rolling hills, and granite outcroppings. History buffs will appreciate this trail, which makes its way through Kings Mountain National Military Park, the site of a famous Revolutionary War Battle. 

Shorter trails at Kings Mountain State Park include the 1.2-mile Kings Mountain Nature Trail and the 1.5-mile Living History Farm Trail. 

The Kings Mountain Horse Trail is a lengthy loop trail that’s an idyllic adventure for equestrians. The 30+ mile trail begins at the park and heads into Kings Mountain National Military Park before heading back to the state park. The trail is mostly flat with some rocky areas, but don’t worry; a local saddle club tends to the trail to ensure that it’s safe for your gentle giant. 

Please read South Carolina’s equine regulations if you plan to bring your horse to the state park. Here’s a trail map of Kings Mountain State Park to plan your trip.

Boating and Fishing at Kings Mountain State Park

There are two lakes at Kings Mountain State Park: Lake York and Lake Crawford. Non-motorized fishing boats can be rented from the park ($20/day), though you are welcome to bring your own non-motorized vessel. Personal kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards are perfect for exploring either lake. 

Bank fishing is allowed on Lake Crawford; just remember your South Carolina fishing license. Potential catches include bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill (also known as bream). Swimming is not allowed in either of the state park’s lakes. 

Camping at Kings Mountain State Park

Fall is the best time of year to go camping. Kings Mountain State Park features 115 campsites, all of which are packed gravel and equipped with individual water and electrical hookups. Tent campers may also choose to stay in the primitive group area, which includes central water. 

Admission to Kings Mountain State Park is $3 for adults, $1.50 for seniors (South Carolina residents only), and $1 for children between the ages of 6 and 16. Kids five and younger are free. Visit the official website of Kings Mountain State Park to learn more. 

Read on to check out some of the best places in South Carolina to see the fall foliage, or plan your own trip to Kings Mountain State Park with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.