America's most visited national park is renowned for its diversity in plant and animal life, and the beauty of its mountains. These parks offer a variety of activities for people of all ages, including scenic overlooks, camping, hiking & biking trails, picnic areas, boating, bird-watching, historic tours, fishing . Waters from the Congaree and Wateree Rivers sweep through the floodplain, carrying nutrients and sediments that nourish and rejuvenate this ecosystem and support . For this guide, we've listed these national parks in North Carolina in alphabetical order. Distance: 206 miles. Astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Best national parks ( 1) #1 - Congaree National Park. Sadlers Creek State Park, Anderson County. Oct 28, 2022 6 min read. Zion National Park. The North Kaibab Trail is an excellent, albeit strenuous hike that delivers visitors into the heart of the canyon. The National Park Service explains that "astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree. She pointed to its 2.2 million acres of wilderness, 37 landmarks (such as the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring) and over 50 mammal species, many of which are most active during the fall. Sumter National Forest. By Mary from Bucketlist Places. Gullah/Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor. Explore nearby camping, photos, reviews, and more of all the official NPS units in South Carolina. Experts recommend completing it in no less than two days. in South Carolina. Weather: The average high is 66F (19C) and the average low is 46F (8C). Phone +1 305-230-1144. As you travel along the boardwalk, you'll notice tupelo, oak, bald cypress, and Loblolly pine trees. 2- Charles Pinckney National Historic Site. The 100-square mile park is probably best known for Fort Jefferson. This national battlefield site in Cherokee County close to the border with North Carolina is a unit of the national park service sites in South Carolina. With over 25 miles of hiking trails and 2.4 miles of boardwalk, there is always something amazing to see in one of the oldest and tallest forests east of the Mississippi. So consider this list of the best state parks in the Southencompassing Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, South and North Carolinas, Virginia and West Virginia, Florida, Tennessee, Kentucky, Oklahoma, and Texasyour starting line. Congaree National Park is one of the least crowded National Parks in the country, lying down in South Carolina along the Congaree River. Canoeing and fishing are also popular in this park. It was built in 1937 by private citizens and is now managed by . Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie Natioanal Historical Park. This scenic trail was conceived by forester Benton MacKaye, built by volunteers, and completed in 1937. Situated just 19 miles from Lexington in Columbia, South Carolina, Sesquicentennial State Park is nestled in the sandhills region. Ninety Six National Historic Site. Phone +1 864-878-9813 Web Visit website One of the Upstate's most pristine outdoor playgrounds, Table Rock State Park offers over a dozen miles of hiking trails ranging from half-mile excursions to strenuous paths that wind all the way up to Table Rock Mountain's 3,124-foot summit. It's true, with snorkeling and paddling opportunities abound, you'll be truly immersed in beauty at this beachfront national park. Length: 3.9 miles; Elevation Gain: 770 feet Difficulty: Moderate Location: Gorges State Park Hikers often find a full day of exploration awaiting them in the Rainbow Falls trailhead in one of North Carolina's best state parks. Rocky Mountain National Park. Official National Parks of South Carolina. Kings Mountain National Military Park. South Carolina National Parks Charles Pinckney National Historic Site Congaree National Park Cowpens National Battlefield Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park Kings Mountain National Military Park Ninety-Six National Historic Site Reconstruction Era National Historical Park South Carolina National Parks Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Boca Chita Key in Biscayne National Park (NPS photo) - East Coast National Parks. Great Smoky . Yellowstone. Sort By. Web Visit website. 3. Gatlinburg, Tennessee to Columbia, South Carolina. Why Visit Shenandoah in May: This is the best month to see wildflowers blooming in Shenandoah National Park. The property is surrounded by fields and is very private. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 75% 8 Reviews. Here are four awe-inspiring national parks near Charlotte, North Carolina. The Fort is named after Thomas Jefferson and was a place where soldiers served and died. Route: This short route begins on the Tennessee side of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the most biodiverse in the . Best of all, Kings Mountain National Military Park is free to enjoy! Listings Map. The best way to understand them, of course, is to visit. Choose from recommended vacation rentals in and near North Carolina. - 2020 visitors: 461,532 (#32 highest among all national parks) - Park area: 107,341.87 acres. A gorgeous park situated in a quaint inner city local with mother nature's best; river, streams, waterfalls, mountain. Cowpens National Battlefield. Weather: The average high is 63F (17C) and the average low is 40F (4C). Location: Passes through Hot Springs, North Carolina Open year-round and accessible from many locations, the Appalachian Trail is the longest hiking-only trail in the world, extending between Maine and Georgia.. Boasting the rights to being the USA's most visited national park, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was also awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1983 for its biodiversity and historical significance. View Map. For Kate Brassington, co-founder of The Family Vacation Guide, the best national park to visit in the fall is Yellowstone. 04 of 51 Buffalo,. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail. There are multiple areas of the property to set up camp whether you want to be covered by trees or want to play in the grass and gaze at the stars, Wolff Woods is the place to be. Best parks ( 193) #1 - Congaree National Park. 5. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, South Carolina in May 1780, and the park preserves the site of this important battle. Kings Mountain Blacksburg, SC Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The battle of Kings Mountain, fought October 7th, 1780, was an important American victory during the Revolutionary War. Canoeing and fishing are also popular in this park. Along the way, myriad other waterfalls, gully's, and natural . The four-mile path follows a roaring river to one of the most scenic waterfalls in North Carolina.. South Carolina. Featuring a beautiful 30-acre lake surrounded by trails and picnic spots, this 1,419-acre park is perfect for a day trip or camping excursion at any time. You may also like: Highest and lowest paying health care jobs in Greenville. South Carolina. Bryce Canyon National Park. March is one of the driest months of the year to visit Guadalupe Mountains National Park. Kings Mountain Blacksburg, SC Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The battle of Kings Mountain, fought October 7th, 1780, was an important American victory during the Revolutionary War. Glacier National Park. On the Congaree River, this park is the largest portion of old-growth floodplain forest left in North America. National Parks in North Carolina also include 1 World Heritage Site (check out this list of all of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States), 569 places recorded by the Heritage Documentation Program and there are over 2.6 million pieces in the North Carolina National Park Museum Collection along with 600 archeological sites. Address. Coligny Beach. Hopkins, SC. The National Park Service explains that "astonishing biodiversity exists in Congaree National Park, the largest intact expanse of old growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States." Location: West Virginia. Florida, USA. Hopkins, South Carolina Those who love spotting wildlife will enjoy a trip to Congaree National Park. Shenandoah National Park is one of the few National Parks that allow dogs on trails. We've got you covered with more than 3,000 diversified campsites to choose from! 7. The Biscayne National Park has the distinction of being 95 percent water, and the water portion of the park is open 24 hours per day. - Date founded: September 24, 2004. Nevertheless, this hidden gem is perfect for an October getaway. 8 Beautiful East Coast National Parks Great Smokey Mountains National Park Acadia National Park Cape Cod National Seashore Everglades National Park Congaree National Park, South Carolina New River Gorge - National Park on East Coast Shenandoah National Park Assateague Island National Seashore 8 Beautiful East Coast National Parks South Carolina has 47 state parks, 5 state forests, 2 national forests, and 1 national park, in addition to many wildlife management areas and local parks. On the Congaree River, this park is the largest portion of old-growth floodplain forest left in North America. Distance Highest Rated Most Reviews Category. The 30.5 miles of trails are also open to hikers. You don't need to dole out much cash to experience the best of South Carolina. New River Gorge National Park. This site commemorates the location of a major battlefield during the American Revolutionary War. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC in May 1780. Occupying a 703-acre peninsula on Lake Thurmond, Hamilton Branch State Park is an ideal destination for watersports enthusiasts and anyone who wants to spend some time admiring the views from the shore of a 70,000-acre lake. Congaree National Park. Coming in at the top spot with a whopping 12.1 million visits, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the country's most-visited national park. Ninety Six, South Carolina. Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie National Historical Park. Congaree National Park, South Carolina (Photo courtesy of Mary from Bucketlist Places) Congaree National Park, South Carolina. Another of the national parks in South Carolina for history buffs is the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site. Spread over the North Carolina-Tennessee border, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is over 500,000 acres of Southern Appalachian natural beauty, wildlife and culture. The park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. gorgeous, peaceful, secluded, great example of the biodiversity of this ecosystem, litter-free, and well preserved. National parks are ranked by closest straight line distance, measured from representative points in Charleston-North Charleston, SC Metro Area and each national park. Congaree, South Carolina. Established in 1929, the battlefield site spans 842 acres in total land area. Grand Teton National Park. Great Sand Dunes National Park (Colorado) - Distance: 1,304 miles. Hopkins, South Carolina Those who love spotting wildlife will enjoy a trip to Congaree National Park. Ninety-Six National Historic Site Visit this National Historic Site in South Carolina's Piedmont region to learn about the 18 th century history of the Palmetto State. However, dogs are prohibited on the falling trails: Fox Hollow Trail (mile 4.6) Stony Man Trail (mile 41.7) except for portion that follows the Appalachian Trail. With more than 90,000 acres of protected lands stretching from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sand dunes of the Atlantic Ocean, South Carolina state parks protect some of the most inviting natural, cultural and recreational destinations in the country. Lake Norman State Park, Troutman. There is currently seven National Park Service Site in South Carolina and three associated sites. Named as one of the best national parks in South Carolina by Vacationidea.com, Sadlers Creek State Park is set in an idyllic position on a peninsula jutting out into Lake Hartwell. Here are the list of National Parks in surrounding states. Wolff Woods is 18 acres of pine forest, grassy fields, and other trees and shrubs. A visit to the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site is a must to get an in-depth view of life in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Find American history and really big trees at South Carolina's top national parks. Historic Sites National Parks By 866TaylorB Located about 10 miles northeast of Charleston, on 25 acres of Wando Neck, a peninsula formed at the confluence of th. 1. 17 campgrounds. Congaree National Park 584 National Parks By Annainthewild . An easy 30-minute drive from Columbia lies Congaree National Park, one of the best national parks in the East Coast for wildlife lovers. South Carolina RV Camping: Campendium has 1427 reviews of South Carolina RV parks, state parks and national parks making it your best South Carolina RV camping resource. Congaree National Park is home to one of the country's most extensive collections of champion trees, the largest species of their kind. The Appalachian National Scenic Trail is over 2,180 miles and crosses through the scenic, wooded, pastoral, wild, and culturally resonant lands of the Appalachian Mountains. Sunrise & Sunset: Sunrise is at 7:10 am and sunset is at 7:10 pm. 7. One of the best national parks in East Coast of the United States is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Reconstruction Era National Historical Park. Estimated driving times are from Here and are only available within the lower 48 states. It is a location rich in southern and American history. Plus, the weather is warm, the trees have leaves, and the entire park is lush and green. South Carolina National Parks - South Carolina is home to Congaree National Park and 6 other units. . The National Park System spans monuments, historic sites, and points of interest beyond well known National Park campgrounds. Looking for inspiration for your next outdoor adventure? 4. And the state park built around it not only offers beautiful views of the water, but also some of the area's most popular trails for mountain biking. Falls Park on the Reedy. 2. 3. Highlights | Seeing black bears & wildflowers, hiking to Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Rainbow Falls, Clingmans Dome, Fontana Lake. Kings Mountain National Military Park. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC in May 1780. Planning to visit a few of the National Parks in North Carolina and wondering about what national parks are in neighboring states. Some of the trees are the tallest in the Eastern US, and the Boardwalk Loop is an elevated walkway through the swamp. Some of the trees are the tallest in the Eastern US, and the Boardwalk Loop is an elevated walkway through the swamp. 4. Sesquicentennial State Park. Grand Canyon. Georgia National Parks - Gerogia has 11 NPS units. The best times to visit are spring and fall. Congaree National Park might be one of the most underrated national parks in America. Limberlost Trail (mile 43) Kings Mountain National Military Park 304 Historic Sites National Parks By FellowTraveler210208 The visitor center at Kings Mountain has a wonderful movie and exhibits. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site. Arches National Park. Ninety Six National Historic Site. 6. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. South Carolina National Parks Table Of Contents Charles Pinckney National Historic Site Congaree National Park Cowpens National Battlefield Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie National Historical Park Kings Mountain National Military Park Ninety Six National Historic Site Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Crossing North Carolina and Tennessee, this park is . Great Smoky Mountains National Park. By Dymphe from Dymabroad. With hundreds of miles of hiking trails to explore, it's the ideal destination for nature lovers. Gorgeous, truly gorgeous, beach with wonderful amenities, like double swings, walkways, parking, and clean restrooms. On some days, high winds can make hiking difficult/unpleasant. This gorgeous park encompasses everything and more that you could want in a national park in Florida. 2. Stacker compiled a list of the closest national parks to Charleston, South Carolina. National Parks in South Carolina. Public RV Park Parking Dump Price. Best National Parks in North Carolina Appalachian National Scenic Trail . Great for. Caesars Head State Park is one of the most popular travel destinations in the Blue Ridge Mountains and one of the best South Carolina state parks. The programming here explores the original frontier settlement that was established herewhich included an earthen star-shaped fortas well as the South's first land battle during the . 1. Discover stunning forested mountains and towering waterfalls, blackwater rivers and scenic . Appalachian National Scenic Trail Blue Ridge Parkway Cape Hatteras National Seashore Cape Lookout National Seashore Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Great Smoky Mountains National Park 8. Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas South Carolina National Heritage Corridor. - Driving time: 23.8 hours. 8 places sorted by traveler favorites Clear all filters 2022 1. The state park is home to diverse wildlife, including black bears and deers. Cowpens National Battlefield 12/19/2013 11:05:43 PM Landsford Canal State Park by Anna from South Carolina Major history of South Carolina - My dad used to take us on to this park several times a year. Gulf State Park in Alabama has more . Stretching across North Carolina and Tennessee, it is the most visited national park in the country. History These 11 small-town getaways in the US are perfect for fall Sep 12, 2022 12 min read . Congaree protects the largest portion of old-growth floodplain forest remaining in North America and the tallest trees in the eastern United States. Google Rating: 4.5. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, St. Augustine De Soto National Memorial, Bradenton Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West Fort Caroline National Memorial, Jacksonville Fort Matanzas National Monument, St. Augustine Gulf Islands National Seashore, Gulf Breeze Timucuan Ecological & Historic Preserve, Jacksonville National Parks in Georgia Best Campgrounds in South Carolina Charleston, SC James Island County Park & Campground 58 Reviews Myrtle Beach, SC Myrtle Beach State Park 53 Reviews Murrells Inlet, SC Huntington Beach State Park 33 Reviews PLAN YOUR TRIP South Carolina Camping View Map Camping in South Carolina By Alex Murphy Among the Charlotte, North Carolina, national parks, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is perhaps the most well-known. 21 / 63. $0 - $200 avg . The surrounding waters have tales of pirates and treasure and in 1985, $450 million in silver and gold was salvaged from the area! Charles Pinckney himself was an author and signatory of . Lake Norman is the largest man-made lake in North Carolina. Best for | Nature lovers, waterfall and hiking. From stargazing in the Appalachians to roasting marshmallows along the Atlantic coast, South Carolina's state parks will fit all of your camping needs. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site 291 Historic Sites National Parks By 866TaylorB