The SC State Park Backpacks at Richland Library inspired me to explore the 47 state parks in South Carolina so that I can become an #ultimateoutsider.
During 2020, I really wanted to travel around South Carolina but, because of Covid-19, all my plans did not go through. Now in 2021, with the help of the Check Out SC: State Park Backpack Program and Richland Library, it is my quest to become the “Ultimate Outsider.” My name is Keith. Come with me as I explore the 47.
To become the Ultimate Outsider, you must visit all 47 state parks, get a stamp from each park, and have a park ranger verify your book. You will then be rewarded with a Ultimate Outsider shirt, your picture taken on their Facebook, and invited to an annual cookout at Lake Greenwood. Now, let’s be honest for a second, am I really out here driving city to city for some stamps? No, I’m taking advantage of finally getting outside the house and seeing the beauty of South Carolina.
In the “Official Guide to South Carolina State Parks”, all the parks are broken up into three regions. The mountains that have 14 parks from Fair Play to Blacksburg and all in between the Greenville and Spartanburg area. The coast has 9 parks from Hilton Head to Myrtle Beach. The midlands have 25 parks from Abbeville to Dillion, Rock Hill to Hampton, Aiken to Cheraw, and all in between interstate I-20.
Today, I'll be giving you my top five personal favorites from the coast region. This part of South Carolina has amazing shorelines, a lighthouse, and a piece of history from the 1700s.
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1. Givhans Ferry State Park
A delightful park with a lot of fun and excitement. Kayaking down the Edisto River is tough but rewarding. Finding some of the best fishing spots or tubing shade areas is what make this park an all-day adventure.
2. Huntington Beach State Park
If you’re looking for a great bird watching area with breath-taking views, then look no further than Huntington Beach. This state park has one of the low-country best features: the Atalaya Castle. From a haunted house to arts and crafts, this castle on Huntington Beach is great in any weather. Plus, sea turtles hatch here in October.
3. Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
A perfect way to start your weekend is right here in Charles Towne. From having an animal walk, an actual boat from the 17th century, and a museum, what Charles Towne lacks in size it more than makes up for with history about the low country.
4. Hunting Island State Park
You know you doing something right when you have over one million people coming to see you. Hunting Island is more than a beach, it is an experience. From sail fishing, pier fishing, the famous Marsh Boardwalk, and South Carolina’s only accessible lighthouse, Hunting Island can fill your thirst for adventure, fun, and relaxation.
5. Myrtle Beach State Park
One whole mile of fun, water, and shark teeth. Myrtle Beach State Park gives you everything from a swamp trail, nature center, boardwalk, and a gift shop that sell everything from ice cream to state park swag. If you do come down to this state park, you got to stay in one of the cabins. Each cabin has easy access that leads straight to the beach itself.
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