Love the outdoors? In the Palmetto State we’re fortunate that the weather is rarely too cold to get outside and enjoy life, even when we have to wear a parka when it’s on the frigid side or when it’s hot and steamy and we resort to as few clothes as possible. Why not combine your activities on the next pretty day and go enjoy a hike – followed by a visit to the prettiest private topiary garden in South Carolina?
Gas up the car and hit the road to the tiny town of Bishopville (population, about 3,000) and hit the state park for a hike before checking out the number one attraction in Bishopville: a private topiary garden!
Developed in 1935, the park is bordered on one side by three miles of the Lynches River - officially deemed as one of the state's ten designated scenic rivers. Kayak, canoe, fish... all within the canopy of a beautiful hardwood forest setting.
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Day visitors as well as overnight campers can also enjoy any of several trails in the park. Seen here, the Boardwalk Trail is a short and scenic walk of only a half mile out and back, combined.
Or strive for something a little more challenging on the Floodplain Trail to Loop Road. This five-mile loop has only an 82 foot elevation gain and is perfect for a couple hours of scenic hiking.
In total, it circles nearly half the state park, and the views are incredible. Lee State Park will satisfy any urge to reconnect with nature! And when you're finished with your hike...
Literally consuming the enormous yard of a local area resident whose life mission has been to create and maintain this beautiful garden, Pearl Fryar's Topiary Garden is a must-see.
Visitors are welcome Tuesday through Saturday (closed Sunday and Monday) to walk through Fryar's yard (for free!) to check out his creations. The hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Road trips are in – specifically road trips to destinations right here in your own back yard! How about a hike at Lee State Park and a little look-see at Pearl Fryar’s Topiary Garden? Learn more about Lee State Park (where admission is always free) by visiting the official site for South Carolina Parks. Get trail maps and more information on the trails from our friends at AllTrails.com.
Want to add a meal at a legendary restaurant (located in Bishopville, of course) to the agenda? Carve out enough time to visit the state’s only Lizardman-themed restaurant: Harry and Harry Too!
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