If You Love Nature, You Must Visit This Enchanting South Carolina City
Natures enthusiasts know we have no shortage of places to get outside and play here in paradise. The beaches and mountains alone offer countless opportunities. But the Midlands and the Piedmont also dole out some outdoor fun – and in some places you may not expect! South Carolina’s towns and cities are home to many outdoor attractions, but this one city in the Palmetto State boasts an abundance of spots to enjoy the outdoors. Let’s take a look at Sumter, the county seat of Sumter County, and discover the treasure trove of outdoor fun available.
Sumter was incorporated in 1845 as Sumterville and named after General Thomas Sumter, also known as the 'fighting Gamecock' of the American Revolutionary War.
In 1850, the U.S. Census recorded 1,350 people resided in the town. Today, Sumter has grown to more than 40,000 residents. But even with the population growth she's maintained that small town feel. Perhaps that's due to all the natural beauty the city has been able to preserve.
Sumter offers two state parks, a state forest, a multitude of municipal parks, and a botanical garden.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens, shown above and below, is the only public park in the U.S. where you'll find all eight species of swans.
The urban oasis is also known for the picturesque landscape which includes abundant water features and a natural botanical garden filled with purple Iris.
Elliotts Pond is known for being full of fish big enough to brag about for years. Plus the forest also offers trails for biking, hiking and horseback riding.
Palmetto Park is a charming city park that's well loved and also well maintained.
It's perfect for small kids (there's a playground) and has a walking path that's great for exercising your dog - or just getting some exercise for yourself.
Get outside by renting a standup paddleboard, kayak or canoe, or just go take a hike. The park has more than 25 miles of trails to choose from.
Of course exploring the outdoors doesn't always mean hitting a trail or going camping. Sumter's Historic District is comprised of 62 buildings that date from 1880 to 1912. Take a walk downtown to discover the beauty in the old architecture.
The Sumter Town Hall-Opera House (shown above) was built in 1893. The clocktower is one of the most iconic features in the historic district.
No matter the season – even in the height of summer, the Palmetto State is more often than not an optimal place to spend some time enjoying the great outdoors — and Sumter is no exception. For more places to find some outdoor fun, check out the ultimate bucket list for anyone in South Carolina who loves the outdoors.
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Robin Jarvis is a travel writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. She's lived in the Carolinas for nearly three decades and currently resides in Charleston. When she's not working, she loves to cook with friends and check out new adventures. General questions and FAM tours: rjarvis@onlyinyourstate.com.
