South Carolina’s Old 96 District invites you to dive into spring. This scenic region—just a two-hour drive from Atlanta—blossoms with road trips and excursions across the counties of Abbeville, Edgefield, Greenwood, Laurens, and McCormick. These are the top 10 things you don’t want to miss:
1. Splash Around at Calhoun Falls State Park—Calhoun Falls, SC
The spring temperatures are just right. Calhoun Falls State Park in Abbeville County nestles against Lake Russell. Wade into a beachy nook or take a kayak out into deeper waters. For more adventure, rent a pontoon boat and have it brought right to your campsite. Get information on boat and kayak rentals in the Old 96 District here.
2. Hike Through History at The Battle Of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site—Clinton, SC
This state park/historic site was once a Revolutionary War battleground. With two beginner-friendly, secluded hiking trails through the grounds, follow along the natural riverside path to learn the story of the battle and its twist ending. If you’re interested in Revolutionary War history, you’ll have lots more to explore as well.
3. Play a Round of Golf
Spring weather brings comfortable temperatures and lush conditions, perfect for golfing. The Old 96 District has many 9- and 18-hole golf courses, some of which even offer stay-and-play deals, including Hickory Knob State Resort Park and Savannah Lakes Village. See the full list of Old 96 District golf courses and get more info on packages here.
4. Take Up Archery or Skeet Shooting at Hickory Knob State Resort Park—McCormick, SC
Beyond camping, travelers visiting Hickory Knob State Resort Park can also discover new hobbies. Park rangers teach beginners about archery and skeet shooting (shooting clays) so that everyone interested can play safely and feel like a pro, even on their first try. Book your sessions at the front desk when you check in. Skeet shooting is $27.50 per round and archery is $10 per person, with discounts on both if you bring your own equipment. You can check out more details and a complete list of activities here.
5. Grab a Sweet Treat From One of Many Bakeries
No matter where you travel in the Old 96 District, you’re likely not far from one of the area’s locally-owned bakeries. Whether it’s the signature pound cake from Swartzentruber’s Bakery in Abbeville or the butter pie at TLC Confections in Edgefield, your tastebuds will rejoice. Get a preview of the sweets trail here.
6. Sip Locally-Made Moonshine at Carolina Moon Distillery—Edgefield, SC
This one is for the grown-ups: Carolina Moon Distillery uses only fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to make some of the tastiest moonshine around. Their products are all named after local legends and folklore, so pop in for a free sample sip and hear the tales behind the labels. A fan-favorite is the “Rabbit Spit” moonshine, named after a prohibition-era judge that said the moonshine in Edgefield was “mean enough to make a rabbit spit in a dog’s face!” The peach moonshine uses fresh South Carolina peaches, grown nearby. After production is finished, leftover corn goes to local farms; nothing is wasted.
7. Pet Goats at Emerald Farm—Greenwood, SC
Emerald Farm is just a few minutes from Uptown Greenwood, making it an easy-to-reach hidden gem. Meet friendly saanen goats and feed them right from your hands. Explore the grounds with free-range peacocks, an antique store, and goat soap for sale made from ingredients supplied by the goats on the farm. A large model train room transfixes both young and old, while a kid-sized train circles the property, carrying young riders.
8. Meet a Unicorn at Hidden Pasture Farms—Laurens County, SC
Try this excursion for the whole family: Hidden Pasture Farms in Laurens County is a “unicorn” farm and sanctuary. In addition to “unicorns,” the farm offers plenty of chickens, roosters, turkeys, rabbits, and farm dogs to see as well. The farm is a popular local spot for photographers, birthday parties, and school field trips. Beloved events throughout the year include a Mother’s Day weekend celebration, a Yardzee tournament on Father’s Day weekend, a Luau with Santa in July, and other fall/yuletide events.
9. Stock Up for Spa Night at Breezy Quarters—Abbeville, SC
Self-care comforts the soul, and aromatherapy eases the burden of a long day. Breezy Quarters in Abbeville handmakes soaps, bath bombs, body scrubs, and other skincare supplies for the perfect luxury bath. Choose from spring scents such as Handpicked Wildflowers and Front Porch Sippin’.
10. Book a Girlfriend Weekend Getaway—Greenwood, SC
Unwind after your road trip at Inn on the Square, the region’s full-service boutique hotel located in the heart of Uptown Greenwood. From there, it’s an easy walk down the block to the Spa on Maxwell, Greenwood’s premiere medi-spa; the Vault marketplace and salon; plenty of charming local shops; and even a restaurant with authentic Cuban cuisine. A weekend getaway here is like a spring cleaning for your soul. Check out the Greenwood Girlfriend Getaway for a full example itinerary, travel tips, and more.
While you’re visiting, consider grabbing a bite to eat along the Old 96 District BBQ Trail, and save on travel with one of the area’s popular travel packages.
