Hinson Lake

Cheraw State Park kind of seems like an unexceptional place. It's got your typical small-park facilities: car camping, golf course, boat launch, tiny public beach. But row a boat (canoes and kayaks are available to rent) about 2 miles southwest of the visitors center and you'll find yourself paddling through mysterious black water under a crowded forest of towering cypress trees. Not exactly an...

This hike starts with mellow terrain changes allowing you to get a feel for the trail. For the first 5 miles you will have one or two steep inclines that take a toll on the calf muscles. The remaining 6 miles include a more difficult terrain including a section of the hike called Hallucination Hill, which is named appropriately for its lengthy and incredibly steep incline. You conclude the last...

By all appearances, Sand Hills State Forest is well-maintained and seldom-used. This particular adventure refers to the Sugarloaf Mountain Recreation Area, but there's more of the forest to explore.  Sugarloaf mountain is a geographical oddity that provides a pleasant view of the scrub-pine forests of Central South Carolina. Don't mistake this for a nature trail (there's a nice one just down t...

A very nice hike down to the river behind the Hart Plantation home. Explore this very historic home from the Civil War along with the Jacob Kelley House a mile away. The trail goes down a well maintained walkway seeing many different flora and fauna along the trail. As the river winds around the walkway and trail you will go through swamp and river seeing many different birds and fish. Thi...

This 2,267 acre preserve is known for its hiking, birding, and a 14-acre granite flatrock with a variety of wildflowers to observe. This moderate hike will take you past the flatrock, as well as a small waterfall and pond. Start from the upper parking, where you'll follow Conservancy Rd for a short stretch. The hike begins through the forest, then follows along Flat Creek to Beaver Pond. After...

This loop hike near Kershaw, SC is somewhat strenuous at some points, but altogether not too bad.  The scenery is beautiful with great views and a waterfall! Be sure to pack plenty of water if you hike on a hot day.