What to do and see in South Carolina, United States: The Best Forests

September 17, 2021 Jana Sager

South Carolina has some great beaches along its eastern coast. Among the most notable of these is Myrtle Beach, the hub of the grand strand and the largest resort on the east coast of South Carolina. This silky stretch of white sand is great for water-sports such as sailing and surfing. South Carolina is also regarded as one of the top golfing destinations in America. South Carolina has some notable historic towns which are worth visiting such as Charleston.
Restaurants in South Carolina

1. Sumter National Forest

112 Andrew Pickens Cir, Mountain Rest, SC 29664-9629 +1 864-638-9568 https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/scnfs/home/?cid=fsbdev3_037346
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 2 reviews

Sumter National Forest

2. Hitchcock Woods

430 S Boundary Ave., Aiken, SC 29802 +1 803-642-0528 http://www.hitchcockwoods.org
Excellent
83%
Good
12%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 206 reviews

Hitchcock Woods

Reviewed By Lawrette46

In the middle of the city of Aiken, SC lies a beautiful 2000 acre urban forest. It is a delightful pine and hardwood forest with many trails perfect for horseback riding or hiking. Dogs are welcome also. During the hunt season, hunt clubs ride every Saturday. Hitchcock Woods is a blessing to Aiken!

3. Francis Beidler Forest

336 Sanctuary Rd, Harleyville, SC 29448-3324 +1 843-462-2150 [email protected] http://beidlerforest.audubon.org/
Excellent
76%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 100 reviews

Francis Beidler Forest

The largest virgin Cypress-Tupelo swamp forest in the world spreads over 11,000 scenic acres.

Reviewed By 526sarahr - Dublin, United States

We took a kayaking tour offered by Audubon. 2-3 hour morning tour. It was private, only the two of us and the guide. Fantastic tour. Very easy paddling. We saw gators (they’re apparently “shy” and avoid people), snakes, a huge spider, turtles, and so many gorgeous dragonflies. Forest is otherworldly. Very unique experience.

4. Harbison State Forest

5500 Broad River Rd, Columbia, SC 29212-3543 http://www.state.sc.us/forest/refharb.htm
Excellent
42%
Good
49%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 85 reviews

Harbison State Forest

Over 20 miles of mountain biking and hiking trails from beginners to expert. Trails are very well maintained.

Reviewed By gardengal8306 - Irmo, United States

I have been to Harbison Forest a handful of times and always enjoyed the experience. They do have a printed trail guide for visitors located in the front parking lot as this came in very helpful for my first two hikes. Like others have stated, the trails are well marked. There could be white paint on trees or sometimes I have also seen blue squares on them as well. I hike alone and the first two visits got turned around in which way to go, but never once felt I was "lost" and could not make it out of the forest. If you "look lost" and are gazing at one of their trail maps on the trail don't be surprised if someone passes by asking if you need help which is quite nice. Fortunately I have not run upon any snakes, but have encountered a turtle, deer and many squirrels. Firebreak and Spider Woman are two of the best trails at Harbison. The view of the Broad River from Spider Woman is awesome. Harbison rates this trail as difficult and it is a challenge. In my experience mostly due to the terrain and sharp turns. There is a section going down to the Broad River where you are literally on a very narrow ledge and you could feel the gravity pulling you to the right. Overall it is a great place to visit and definitely worth the $25.00 annual fee. However, you can also purchase a day permit for $5.00. Nice place nestled within the suburbs!

5. Manchester State Forest

6740 Headquarters Rd, Wedgefield, SC 29168-9418 +1 803-494-8196 http://www.state.sc.us/forest/refman.htm
Excellent
50%
Good
50%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2 reviews

Manchester State Forest

6. Twin Lakes Park

Winnebago Trail, Seneca, SC
Excellent
60%
Good
40%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 10 reviews

Twin Lakes Park

Reviewed By 938kj - Myrtle Beach, United States

We have never been here before and happen to find website while searching for a place to camp around Lake Hartwell. We have pop up trailer and normally stay at KOA to have good shower facilities. This park is beautiful. Big camp sites. You are not looking in your neighbors window. Bath facilities are great. Very well maintained. Great swim beach. Lots of lakefront and Lakeview sites. Definately coming back.

7. Parson's Mountain Recreation Area

454 Parsons Mountain Rd, Abbeville, SC 29620-6217
Excellent
50%
Good
50%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 6 reviews

Parson's Mountain Recreation Area

8. Francis Marion National Forest

2967 Steed Creek Rd, Huger, SC 29450-8608 +1 843-336-2202 http://www.fs.usda.gov/scnfs
Excellent
40%
Good
40%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
20%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.0 based on 10 reviews

Francis Marion National Forest

The Francis Marion National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker. It spans nearly 259,000 acres, and offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities ranging from hiking, biking, motorcycle and canoe trails to rifle ranges and a boat launch.

Reviewed By deannamancini08 - Central Arizona, United States

Spent a family day hiking and exploring/ clean picnic area and bathrooms. Hike was beautiful and path was well maintained. Kids had a blast! Can’t wait to come back again one day.

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