The Tiny Amish Town in South Carolina That’s the Perfect Day Trip Destination

When considering a road trip to South Carolina, most people think of local eats, the southern culture, and the Lowlands. But, as you cruise through the backroads of the Palmetto State, you’ll soon discover rural communities, rich in history, that have been thriving for decades. For instance, while there may not be many Amish churches or communities in the state, there is one that's worth a detour.

Although the entire small town of Blackville, South Carolina, isn't Amish, there is a strong community of Amish people and businesses here. If you love Amish-inspired places, a day trip to Blackville is certainly in order. Take a look at a few of the things to see and do in this tiny South Carolina town.

Is There Really an Amish Town in Blackville?

Technically, the answer is no, but with nuances. While there is no prominent Amish community in Blackville, there is a small group of Mennonites that has settled in the town since the 1960s. Known as "Beachy Amish Mennonites," you won't see them riding in the traditional horse and buggy that we normally associate with the Amish.

Instead, this community chose to include modern conveniences like cars and the internet in their everyday lives. So, don't expect to see the traditional buggies; however, the members will be dressed in traditional clothing while driving modern cars. So, for our purposes, we'll use the term Amish loosely.

What Makes Blackville, South Carolina Unique

While the population of the small town of Blackville hovers around 1,900 residents, the "Beachy Amish" community is a tiny part of that. We couldn't find any records of exactly how many are in the town, but their presence in the community is a main factor why people visit.

Their businesses are a major draw for those wanting home-cooked Amish food, goodies, and handmade items. And of course, the small community is interesting because they don't fit into the blueprint of our vision of traditional Amish people. They've paved their own way, making them an interesting community with old Amish roots.

What You’ll See When You Visit

Blackville is a small, close-knit community located approximately 45 minutes northeast of Augusta, GA. It's one of the few places in the state with Amish-run businesses; another is Abbeville. Although Blackville contains other churches, it is also home to one of the few Mennonite churches in the state: Calvary Fellowship Mennonite Church. The church was formed in the 1960s and is certainly just as friendly as the very first day it opened its doors. Additionally, the Mennonite community in Blackville also has a private Mennonite School.

Right in the middle of town on Main Street, Miller's Bread Basket is an Amish-Mennonite restaurant and bakery you'll want to visit (we recommend lunchtime!). Their Amish cafeteria-style buffet is filled with delicious food and paired with fresh bread that is baked on-site at Miller's. Treat yourself to a delicious South Carolina Amish-inspired community meal.

Over on Healing Spring Road sits the Healing Springs Country Store. It's operated by the local Mennonites and is filled to the brim with dry goods, fresh preserves, canned items, and some locally-made crafts. They also serve some of the best local food you'll ever eat. Look forward to browsing their homemade remedies, including this signature lye soap created to keep the no-see-ums and mosquitoes at bay.

Speaking of home remedies, it's not Amish-related, but the South's famous God's Acre Healing Springs is worthy of a visit during any trip to Blackville or even if just passing through; although, we think it's one of the best day trips you could take in South Carolina. The spring has been the source of water for healing whatever ails you for quite a long time. Upon the death of the last owner, it was deeded to God so that it would always be available to everyone (for free!) to partake in the healing properties of the water from this spring. Bring containers and fill them all!

Is Blackville, South Carolina Worth Visiting?

Yes! There are undoubtedly so many things to love about Blackville, one of the coolest small towns in South Carolina to explore. Come for a day, but stay for the food, the handmade goodies, and the local people! You could also make it a weekend getaway. Barnwell State Park in Blackville offers both cabin rentals and campsites, and it's a great place to hike, paddle, fish, and relax. We're sure you'll love it!