Off The Beaten Path | South Carolina

South Carolina is a beautiful state, filled with excellent destinations to visit. It is impossible to highlight all of the amazing places you could visit while on a trip to South Carolina. South Carolina has history, beautiful natural wonders and much more. Here are just a few of the places you could visit during a trip to the state of South Carolina.

Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, Mt. Pleasant

This National Park preserves this coastal plantation in remembrance of Charles Pinckney. Charles Pinckney was an author and signer of the Constitution, however, he is known as the "forgotten founder." This park tells the story of the life of Charles Pinckney, and the plantation history. Visitors to Charles Pinckney National Historic Site can walk on the 1/2 mile walking trail to learn all about the history of the site. In addition, visitors can explore the museum at the farmhouse on the former plantation.

Old Slave Mart Museum, Charleston

The Old Slave Mart Museum is housed in a building that was once used as a slave auction gallery. Today the museum gives visitors a glimpse into the history of the slave trade in South Carolina. The Old Slave Mart museum especially focuses on the history of the building, which was once part of a complex known as Ryan's Mart.

Fripp Island

Fripp Island is one of the South Carolina Sea Islands, and it is a wildlife sanctuary. This is a popular vacation destination during the summer season, but it is uncrowded during the off-season, with only a small population of permanent residents. Visitors to the island can enjoy a beautiful vacation at the resort, while also enjoying access to the islands beaches, kayaking, and golfing.

Congaree National Park, Hopkins

Congaree National Park preserves the largest remaining example of old-growth floodplain forest. This park has an amazing array of large old-grwoth hardwoods and pines, animals and plants. Visitors to Congaree can enjoy all sorts of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, educational and ranger led programs. One of the best ways to enjoy the wonders of Congaree National Park is by canoeing and kayaking tours, both self and ranger guided.

Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway

Another way to enjoy the great state of South Carolina is on the Cherokee Foothills National Scenic Highway. The highway passes along the northwest edge of the state. Travelers on the highway can enjoy views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Along the way there are many points of interest, including peach orchards, Cowpens National Battlefield, towns and much more.

Table Rock State Park

Located on the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Table Rock State Park is a great location for an outdoor adventure. The park has two lakes, a lodge and many opportunities for recreation. Table Rock State Park was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, and since its creation it has been a great South Carolina destination. Visitors to the park can enjoy camping, hiking and more. Table Rock State Park is the trailhead for the Foothills Trail.

Raven Cliff Falls, Cleveland

These falls are the highest in the state. The Raven Cliff Falls drop a spectacular 400 feet. Located in Caesars Head State Park, these falls are a great destination to enjoy the beauty of South Carolina and enjoy a day of recreation. Visitors can take a nice hike on the Gum Gap/Foothill Trail to reach the top of the falls, where they can enjoy the beautiful falls.