Summer day trip idea: Picnic in a new-to-you park. The Olde English District in north-central SC is home to nine state parks — here’s a peek at four:
- Chester State Park (~3 hours from CHS): A quiet park for campers, day-users + nature lovers, featuring a lake with a public boat ramp and boat rentals, 25 campsites, two camper cabins, and two disc golf courses (18-hole + 9-hole).
- Cheraw State Park (~2 hours): An 18-hole championship golf course winds through piney woodlands and Lake Juniper, which can be explored via kayak, canoe, pedal boat, or the boardwalk. Fun fact: This is SC’s first state park.
- Lake Wateree State Park (~2 hours ): A popular spot for fishing, boating, and other water activities, this park also features campsites and a loop hiking trail.
- Goodale State Park (~2 hours): Scenic cypress trees line a lake to a nature and canoe trail, giving visitors a chance to admire the native flora and fauna. Bonus: Leashed pets are allowed in most outdoor areas.*