If you have ever wondered what small town South Carolina is all about, then Pickens would be an excellent choice for your next venture to the United States’ southern states. With a population of just over 3,000, Pickens, South Carolina is a quaint and lovely town that welcomes visitors with open Southern hospitality. Here you will have the opportunity to enjoy beautiful weather in a natural and hospitable landscape. You will have the opportunity to visit museums, parks, natural and breathtaking waterfalls, and even enjoy true Southern home cooking at one of this town’s lovely restaurants!
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1. Hagood Mill
The Hagood Mill is full of rich history as it has been restored and maintained for over 150 years. Take a step back into time during the era of approximately 1845 where you will have the opportunity to visit a gristmill, two restored log cabins, a traditional blacksmith shop, a cotton gin used to separate cotton from its seeds, and even a moonshine still. Natural trails are also abundant here at the Hagood Mill for fresh air and exercise, and don’t forget to check out the live performances in the center of the Mill. A large waterwheel has also been constructed and would make an amazing photo opportunity! Hagood Mill is a definite step back into time and will set the tone for your historic visit into Pickens, South Carolina.
Hagood Mill
Address: 138 Hagood Mill Rd, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
Website: Hagood Mill
2. Glassy Mountain
Glassy Mountain, located in northwestern South Carolina has an elevation of 1,647 ft (365.7 m) and could be a lovely way to spend the day venturing along the trail that this mountain offers. There is a bare granite side of this mountain, where natural springs will trickle down providing the glassy appearance. The trail is relatively easy and the summit will offer views of the surrounding land, providing you the opportunity to relax and have a picnic lunch! If you’re looking for a hiking trail that is manageable for those that are not avid hikers, then Glassy Mountain will be the one for you.
3. Fort Hill Plantation
Fort Hill Plantation is a National Historic Landmark built in 1802. This venture into history is essentially known as the John C. Calhoun Mansion and Library located within Clemson University. Don’t worry, however, you won’t need to write a final exam to tour this remarkable estate! Each room is rich with history and the lands have been immaculately maintained for visitors to catch a glimpse of how life was during this era. In addition, historic background can be found on the contribution of slavery to this plantation. John C. Calhoun served as vice president, senator, and secretary of state during his long political career with the United States of America, and Fort Hill Plantation has remarkable artifacts, books, and furnishings to take you back to his time.
Fort Hill Plantation
Address: 102 Fort Hill St, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
Website: Fort Hill Plantation
4. Hanover House
One of the oldest homes in South Carolina, Hanover House was built in 1714 and has been preserved to maintain its historic importance to the history of this culturally rich state. Hanover House, also known as St. Julien-Ravenel House, was constructed in a low lying area of South Carolina and was transferred to Clemson University’s grounds where it remains open for visitors. This beautiful house was carefully restored to provide the truest vision of its natural state and stands proudly among the lovely grounds of the university. Inside the home, you will find artifacts dated back to the 17th and 18th century.
Hanover House
Address: 150 Garden Trail, Clemson, SC 29634, Clemson, SC 29631, USA
5. Clemson Area African American Museum
The history of this collective museum and cultural center is to recognize the significant contributions of African Americans to the Clemson community, and to South Carolina. The museum is a symbol of the hardships and turbulent history of the slave era and those who were predominantly plantation workers. A group of residents, volunteers, and academics have joined in an effort to induct the Clemson Area African American Museum, and their efforts are still ongoing. The museum is located at the Calhoun Bridge Center, which was formerly an all African American elementary school, offering a unique and tangible realism to the museum. The history of beautiful South Carolina is a long one, and the opportunity to be immersed in this history can be found here.
Clemson Area African American Museum
Address: 214 Butler St, Clemson, SC 29631, USA
Website: Clemson Area African American Museum
6. Twin Falls
When you are finished with your historic tour of Pickens, South Carolina and the surrounding areas, you may want to try a nature hike to the beautiful Twin Falls. Also known as Reedy Cove Falls, Rock Falls, or Eastatoe Falls, Twin Falls will provide visitors with a relaxing and rejuvenating opportunity to explore some of the beautiful land within South Carolina. The larger of the two falls extends at 75 ft (22.8 m) while the other is relatively smaller, yet together will conduct a stunning performance of natural wonder. Twin Falls is a simple trail, which will take no more than 15 minutes for the average person, and definitely worth the trek once you make it to the viewing platform.
Twin Falls
Address: Water Falls Rd, Sunset, SC 29685, USA
Website: Twin Falls
7. Table Rock State Park
For a wonderfully spent day in the natural area of Pickens, SC, try Table Rock State Park. Lodging, trails, hiking, and of course picnics are all available here at this beautiful natural state park. Here you will have the opportunity to cool down and lounge in one of the two fresh water lakes in what are known as ‘old fashioned swimming holes,’ during your trail adventures. The scenery at the summit is breathtaking, and nature enthusiasts strive to spend as much time as possible in such surroundings as these! Picnic shelters and a traditional 'high-dive’ can also be found here!
Table Rock State Park
Address: 158 E Ellison Ln, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
Website: Table Rock State Park
8. Devils Fork State Park
Here is another stunning state park that can be found in South Carolina. Standing in its grand eminence, Devils Fork State Park will provide visitors with a refreshing and invigorating opportunity to witness nature in this lovely part of the world. The 9,000-acre (3,642 hectare) Lake Jocassee is breathtakingly crystal clear and it is not unusual to find scuba divers exploring the underwater world here. Lake Jocassee is only accessible via the state park, and stunning waterfalls are only accessible by boat. This area is largely kept undeveloped and maintained in its natural state. Fishing, furnished villas, and campgrounds can all be found here at Devils Fork State Park. There is definitely something for every nature lover’s wish list!
Devils Fork State Park
Address: 161 Holcombe Cir, Salem, SC 29676, USA
Price: Adults 5 USD / Children 3 USD
Website: Devils Fork State Park
9. Pickens County Museum of Art and History
Originally an old jail house, this historical building has been converted to a museum within the heart of Pickens. The interesting factor with Pickens County Museum of Art and History is that it has a very impressive layout with interesting artifacts. The museum, considering the size of this small town, offers an incredible display of exhibits and original local art for enjoying. New exhibits are also continuously being added, which makes Pickens County Museum of Art and History always a great place to browse through!
Pickens County Museum of Art and History
Address: 307 Johnson St, Pickens, SC 29671, USA
Pickens... a truly lovely place to visit!
When we think of South Carolina, we generally think of the wonderful stretch of sandy beaches, the plantations, history, and art. Well, Pickens definitely has a little of everything including natural state parks and beautiful weather! If you’re planning a trip out to the beautiful South, then be sure to spend a few days in Pickens, SC, as it is absolutely worth it!
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