The Clemson Experimental Forest is used for research, education, and recreation. It is 17,500 acres strong and covers a large area surrounding Clemson University. Among the many ways to explore this huge resource is by way of a hike. And on the many trails in the forest, explorers can encounter any number of unexpected remnants and historic places in South Carolina. Now, let's take a closer look at one of the creepiest abandoned cemeteries in South Carolina.
It's here, along the Lawrence Cemetery and Lake Issaqueena Trail that hikers happen upon the old Lawrence Family Cemetery, where the eldest member of the family, Benjamin Lawrence, was interred in 1826.
Lawrence fought in the Revolutionary War, as a grave marker indicates.
Hikers will find the cemetery at approximately one-quarter of the way around the loop trail, provided the hiking direction is counterclockwise. (See map below for cemetery location.)
But don't turn around and go back once you find the cemetery. Continue on this short 2.4-mile loop because there's much more to see in this part of the Clemson Experimental Forest, including the beautiful Lake Issaqueena!
The old cemetery is fascinating to explore.
It's clearly labeled with an old sign and can't be missed.
And once you've paid respects to the individuals buried here, keep moving. The trail shouldn't take more than 90 minutes but there is plenty to discover just ahead.
An old dam and its spillway will fascinate anyone who admires water and waterfalls. From the trail you can get fairly close to the dam and further along the trail you'll have great views of the water spilling over the top for a very cool man-made waterfall.
Further along your hike, you'll encounter the old Council Ring at Lake Issaqueena. Found along the shore of the lake, this old meeting spot has its own tale to tell, and you'll find all of the details of how it came to be and what it was used for on a kiosk next to the site.
You have to love stumbling upon remnants from the past when you're exploring the wilds of the Palmetto State. And this is only one of the abandoned cemeteries in South Carolina. Check out another one of these amazing South Carolina cemeteries.
For more on the unique and astounding history of this state, check out one of the most historic places in South Carolina.
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