South Carolina:
Published: Monday, July 30, 2007
In spite of its relatively small geographical coverage, South Carolina is one American state holding a rich and glorious past. It saw much military action during the two historic wars of the US and was the first state to withdraw from what was then a fragile American Union.The lands that comprise South Carolina used to be devoted to agricultural production. As industries began to enter the scene, though, the farms became fewer but nevertheless produced several major crops that have become distinctly South Carolinian.
It is the same way with its natural attractions, because while it offers typical tourist magnets like sandy beaches, gently rolling hills, and magnificent lakes, South Carolina has made these natural wonders distinctly its own. RV-boarded travelers will pleasantly find this to be true once they start exploring the many features that comprise the land that also goes by the name the "Palmetto State".
South Carolina in Regions
Only three regions make up the state that is South Carolina. The three zones are variously referred to as the Waterfalls and Whitewater Region, the Lakes and Blackwater Rivers Region, and the Islands and Coast Region.
The Waterfalls and Whitewater Region
Lying on the northwestern side of South Carolina, the Waterfalls and Whitewater Region also goes by another name – Upcountry Carolina – and was called such because mountains and high-standing plateaus characterize its many areas. Meanwhile, below these peaks are several scenic rivers whose waters offer a wide range of activities, of which white-water rafting comes out as the most prominent.
The region has many natural attractions although two of these are considered as its most popular features. Both the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Chatooga River should prove to be interesting to many RVers owing to the wealth of outdoor activities that they can engage in here. The former is a highly-forested area highlighted by several rugged cliffs, with the Raven Cliff Falls proving to be a favorite among hiking enthusiasts as it rises approximately 400 feet from the ground.
The latter, meanwhile, boasts of clear but raging waters, making it the perfect venue to launch white-water rafting ventures. For the less adventurous, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, or even simple sightseeing actvities can be taken on during less dangerous periods.
Anderson/Lake Hartwell KOA offers the best access point to many regional attractions, particularly the Blue Ridge Mountains, since it rests right along its foothills. Accessible within 30 minutes if one is coming from Greenville, the RV campground boasts of level-based RV sites apart from hosting the biggest flea market in South Carolina.
The Lakes and Blackwater Rivers Region
Sometimes referred to as the Midlands Region, this particular area of South Carolina covers at least 171,000 land acres engulfed in more than six million water gallons, making it the top destination of many anglers and other water-loving people. As such, the region may well be described as the lakes and rivers district of South Carolina.
Meanwhile, outdoor lovers who prefer other exciting activities can try hiking, hunting, and perhaps even biking in these parts since several regional rivers are mountain based just like the Congaree River. Housed within the Congaree National Park, the river is quite proud of the endless array of water-related interests that it offers visiting RVers, including kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. More than that, however, Congaree River is a popular hiking spot with over 20 miles specifically designed for the sport. Additionally, it is renowned as a bird-watching area and a nature preserve study center leading to its designation as a National Natural Landmark.
A significant highlight here is Columbia, the state capital, where two state parks can be visited without much hassle since both are generally RV friendly aside from featuring various areas where RVers can engage in their favorite outdoor pursuits. The first is Sesquicentennial State Park, nicknamed Sesqui by local residents. It covers 1,440 acres and features a forest area shrouded by scrub oaks and pine trees. The resident lake is excellent for holding picnics while the four-mile fitness trail situated nearby is popular among joggers. However, what should attract RV-boarded travelers to this state park are its camping areas numbering around 87 where the RV can be settled in, complete with electric and water hook-ups.
The other regional state park, Dreher Island State Park, sits on the Lake Murray banks and is highlighted by a 12-mile shoreline. Its 112 camp sites, divided into two divisions, likewise offer electric and water hook-ups which come complete with modern restrooms. Just across the lake, RV-boarded families can get together and avail of one of seven existing picnic areas.
The Islands and Coast Region
The region, often called the Lowcountry Region, is generally composed of miles of sandy beaches that stretch for approximately 60 miles which should be good news for RVers who simply adore the thrill of the waters. Yet, apart from this, there are many other regional attractions here like forest areas and state parks that offer the perfect contrast to the beaches and where other outdoor joys can be availed of, such as hiking, fishing, horseback riding, picnicking, and, of course, camping.
To fully get engrossed in all of these attractions, RV-boarded travelers can try heading off to Hilton Head Island Motorcoach Resort where access to the many regional beaches is as easy as biking across its many designated paths, kayaking in marsh creeks, or viewing wildlife in the nearby forest area. Settled upon 50 acres of woodlands, the RV campground boasts of sites that are fully paved and carries several modern amenities like a clubhouse, a playground for children, and a lovely lake set beside a fountain.
South Carolina Cities
The "Palmetto State" may be considerably small, but it does boast of several key cities carrying various RV-accessible attractions that offer not only outdoor enjoyment but even a glimpse of the glorious past that helped shape South Carolina into what it is today. Exploring the wonders of these cities ought to be quite an experience for RVers seeking to know more about South Carolina.
Aiken
Some people may not have too much knowledge about this little-known South Carolina city, but Aiken actually has a rich set of attractions ranging from historic landmarks to resort towns that should entice RV-boarded travelers to stop by and see for themselves why this tiny city is among the top tourist places in South Carolina.
Historically, Aiken came into the national consciousness in 1832 via its steam passenger trains, the railways of which was considered the longest at that time. Earning the tag "Best Friend", it became the major means for exploring the possibilities of producing tobacco, flour, and cotton on a massive scale in Aiken. Its construction, under the supervision of then Railroad Company president William Aiken led to the city being seen as popular health resort.
After the American Civil War, Aiken began rebuilding itself, eventually becoming a favorite destination of polo players due to its perfect climate complemented by the warm air produced by pine trees and natural spring water. This tradition continues to this day, with the sport being played every afternoons of Sunday. For RVers wishing to see and appreciate more of the sport, they can try visiting Hopeland Gardens, a 14-acre wide area of greens housing the Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame highlighting the many contributions of the city to the sport of polo.
Of course, modern-day Aiken is more than just railroads and sports centers. It now plays host to several state parks and to various natural attractions that a typical RVer will find worth exploring. The largest pond worldwide, for example, can be seen here. Langley Pond, set amidst a beautiful landscape, features a lovely sandy beach where swimmers, anglers, boaters, and picnickers are common sightings. Nearby, the Cedar Creek Wildlife Sanctuary holds several nature trails that traverses dense woodlands before finally ending at a bird shelter.
RVers wondering where all of these attractions can be accessed need only to go to Pine Acres Campground and they will find these in great abundance. Additionally, they can find golf courses, designed so elegantly that the campground has been hosting the Gold Cup Tournament for years apart from the annual Augusta Master's Golf Tournament.
Myrtle Beach
Quite simply, the place is the ultimate beach paradise in South Carolina. The state may be filled with numerous sandy beaches but for many tourists, especially those coming in aboard their RVs there is only one place to see for pure beach fun, and that is Myrtle Beach.
Yet, the city offers more than just beaches, and RV riders will equally find great joy in its over 70 golf areas, nearly 200 tennis fields, and a wealth of amusement parks led by Myrtle Waves Water Park, the largest in South Carolina covering 20 acres of land immersed in over a million water gallons. Less than four million people have come to this water park since its initial operation in 1985, providing entire families with a wet, wild, and fun-filled summer.
For access to this delightful city attraction, RV-boarded travelers should ideally check in at nearby Pirate Land Family Camping Resort. The RV campground is not only near the said water park, it also lies in close proximity to other popular city attractions like Ripley's Aquarium, NASCAR Speed Park, and Wild Water Amusement Park.
Francis Marion National Forest
Perched in the Low Country Region of South Carolina, the Francis Marion National Forest is a coastal wonder in the "Palmetto State". Lying in the northern end of Charleston, it covers 250,000 acres divided into four forest areas with area coverage ranging from a relatively small 1,800 to a fairly large 5,000 acres.
With such a vast recreational area, opportunities for outdoor fun in these parts is definitely endless. That is why it does not come as a surprise that outdoor lovers of varying preferences often congregate here. For instance, the Wambaw Creek Wilderness Area may be popular for wildlife viewing and hunting particularly since it abounds in wildlife like raccoons, wood ducks, and barred owls. Yet, canoers are likewise common personages here since the area has a nine-mile canoe trail traversing the tidal waters of Blackwater Creek.
As diverse as the Francis Marion National Forest is, it comes as no great wonder that RVers will likewise find an appropriate spot here. Primitive camping areas do exist here but so are the more developed types, which should ostensibly include RV-friendly areas. This makes the area worth exploring even for those aboard their RVs.
Kings Mountain National Military Park
For RVers who have a passion for history, a visit to Kings Mountain National Military Park ought to be the ideal answer. Its main attraction is the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail, a one-and-a-half mile battlefield trail that takes hikers through the route taken by the Patriot Army on their way to defeating the American Loyalists during the heat of the Revolutionary War of 1780.
In addition to hiking trails, horse paths can also be seen here covering more than 16 miles. In between, one can engage in wildlife and bird-watching before finally taking a rest among the many designated camping sites. However, for a more RV-friendly camping area, Kings Mountain State Park, lying adjacent to the Kings Mountain National Military Park, should be considered. Its 116 sites are well-developed and can be visited anytime.
Seeing the "Palmetto State"
Mild weather generally characterizes the South Carolina landscape although summer is typically humid with averages of 95 degrees. Winter, meanwhile, is uncharacteristically short with snow rarely falling during the season.
Generally, the climate in South Carolina varies according to region so a visit to the "Palmetto State" will have to take into account the prevailing season at the time. For example, rains are often heaviest in the northwestern region while the central area experiences the least rainfall. Between the two, Central South Carolina offers better outdoor enjoyment for prospective RV riders.
Some major South Carolina events are also held during certain seasons and many RVers will want to see these first-hand if only for the excitement that they offer. For example, the Spoleto Festival USA, highly anticipated by many tourists, is usually scheduled in the spring season, between late May and early June. RV-boarded travelers wishing to see this particular event should thus plan a spring visit to South Carolina.
Lake Aire RV Park and Campground
Situated in Hollywood City in South Carolina, Lake Aire RV Park and Campground is the RV park for travelers who have a passion for American history. This is because it affords campers direct access to such historic sites as Fort Sumter and U.S.S Yorktown. Apart from that, other major South Carolina attractions like Charleston Aquarium, the Magnolia Plantation, and Middleton Place is likewise easily accessed via the campground.
Yet, RVers need not step out of the perimeters of the Lake Aire RV Park and Campground to have an unforgettable camping experience. Within its immediate vicinity are several interesting areas where camp pleasure can be easily achieved. This includes taking a dip in the resident swimming pool that boasts of a deck specifically intended for those who prefer having a sunbath. Another area features a private lake where fishing can be enjoyed without the need for a license.
An outdoor fitness center, a playground for children, and clean and tiled bathrooms are some of the other attractions of this RV campground. A s for the RVs, one can choose from as many as 87 sites, many of them quite large and founded on level ground.
Lake Hartwell Camping and Cabins
Resting at the foot of Blue Ridge Mountains is this family-owned RV park that can be reached via a short 30-minute drive from Clemson University. Two prominent cities namely Charlotte and Atlanta, meanwhile, are both accessible within two hours of driving time.
Yet, proximity to popular South Carolina landmarks and places is not the only attraction that Lake Hartwell Camping and Cabins has to offer. Within its expanse are features that RV-boarded travelers will find truly worth exploring. For instance, its foundation rocks rest on the Lake Hartwell banks from where several outdoor water-based activities can be enjoyed. Specifically, there is a boat ramp situated nearby that serves as a boat launch for interested boaters. The lake shores, meanwhile, are popular grounds among anglers as they find fishing to be highly pleasurable and profitable.
If hiking is preferred, more than half of the 62-acre wide RV campground is devoted to hiking trails. One will find the sport to be highly engaging in these parts because of its clear water background that flows from nearby Beaver Dam.
Composed of a total of 120 camping areas, Lake Hartwell Camping and Cabins has reserved half of these for RVs, signifying its willingness to accommodate this growing class of campers into its fold. Additionally, storage facilities specifically designed for RVs and even for boats are available here at very affordable rates.
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