Do you love spending time in nature? Here are the best gardens and parks in South Carolina:
1Nathaniel Russell House Museum
Charleston, SCThe Nathaniel Russell House, built in 1808, is an early 19th-century house located at 51 Meeting Street in Charleston, South Carolina. It was constructed by Nathaniel Russell, a wealthy merchant and slave trader. The house is recognized as one of the most important neoclassical houses in the United States, showcasing the architectural style of the period. 2Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Charleston, SCMagnolia Plantation and Gardens is a historic site located on the Ashley River at 3550 Ashley Road River, Charleston County, in South Carolina. The plantation, which dates back to 1676, is one of the oldest in the South and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The house and gardens are open to the public every day, with an admission fee charged. 3South Carolina Botanical Garden
Clemson, SCThe South Carolina Botanical Garden is a vast expanse of natural beauty, spanning 295 acres. It is divided into several sections, including a 70-acre display area, a 40-acre arboretum, and over 90 acres of protected forests and streams. This provides a diverse range of environments for visitors to explore, from meticulously curated gardens to untouched natural landscapes. 4Middleton Place
Charleston, SCMiddleton Place is a historic plantation located in Dorchester County, South Carolina. It is situated along the Ashley River and is approximately 15 miles northwest of downtown Charleston. This location offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of the area while enjoying the natural beauty of the Ashley River. 5Huntington Beach State Park
Murrells Inlet, SCHuntington Beach State Park, located near Murrells Inlet in Georgetown County, South Carolina, is a 2500 acre coastal preserve and state park. The park is known for its large sandy beach, which is often less crowded than other beaches. It is also a popular spot for bird watching, with numerous species of wild birds visible throughout the year. 6Cypress Gardens
Moncks Corner, SCCypress Gardens is a vast 170-acre preserve and gardens situated at 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner, South Carolina, United States. This expansive area offers a unique blend of nature and history, providing visitors with an opportunity to explore and appreciate the diverse flora and fauna of the region. 7Moore Farms Botanical Garden
Lake City, SCMoore Farms Botanical Garden is a botanical garden situated in Lake City, South Carolina. Established in 2002, the garden spans 65 acres and is composed of cultivated gardens and pastoral fields. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultivated landscapes, making it an ideal destination for those interested in botany, gardening, or simply enjoying the outdoors. 8Brookgreen Gardens
Murrells Inlet, SCBrookgreen Gardens, located in South Carolina, is a unique blend of art, nature, and history. Founded in 1932 by Archer Milton Huntington and his wife, Anna Hyatt Huntington, the gardens serve as a sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. The couple's vision was to create a space that showcased American figurative sculptures, including works by Anna and her sister Harriet Randolph Hyatt Mayor, among others. Today, the gardens continue to fulfill this vision, offering visitors a chance to explore the beauty of art and nature in one location. 9Kilgore-Lewis House
Greenville, SCThe Kilgore-Lewis House, originally known as the Josiah Kilgore House, is a historic home situated in Greenville, South Carolina. This house, built around 1838, carries a significant historical value and is a notable landmark in the region. It offers a glimpse into the architectural style of the period, making it an interesting destination for those interested in history and architecture. 10Swan Lake Iris Gardens
Sumter, SCSwan Lake Iris Gardens, situated in Sumter, South Carolina, holds the unique distinction of being the only public park in the United States that is home to all eight species of swans. This includes Royal white mutes, Black Necks, Coscorobas, Whoopers, Black Australians, Whistlers, Bewicks, and Trumpeters. This unique feature makes it a special destination for bird lovers and those interested in nature. 11Andrew Jackson State Park
Lancaster, SCThe park is located on U.S. Highway 521, approximately nine miles north of Lancaster, South Carolina. This location makes it easily accessible for visitors. 12Seibels House and Garden
Columbia, SCThe Hale–Elmore–Seibels House, also known as the Seibels House, is a historic building situated in Columbia, South Carolina. This location is steeped in history and offers a unique glimpse into the past.- 13
Kalmia Gardens
Hartsville, SCKalmia Gardens is a mature botanical garden situated in Hartsville, South Carolina. It is part of Coker University and is located at 1624 West Carolina Avenue. The garden is open daily and does not require an admission fee, making it an accessible destination for tourists and locals alike. - 14
Wells Japanese Garden
Newberry, SCWells Japanese Garden is a serene spot nestled at 1608 Lindsay Street in Newberry, South Carolina. The garden is open every day, making it a flexible option for tourists who are planning their visit. Its convenient location and daily accessibility make it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility amidst their busy travel schedules. - 15
Gardens & Scenery at Mepkin Abbey
Moncks Corner, SCThe Mepkin Abbey Botanical Garden is a vast natural area and botanical garden that spans 3,200 acres. It is situated on the grounds of Mepkin Abbey, a Trappist monastery in Moncks Corner, South Carolina. This serene location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists. - 16
Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Sunset, SCKeowee-Toxaway State Park, located in Pickens County, South Carolina, is a beautiful park that was established in 1970. The park is situated along the shores of Lake Keowee, on lands that were previously owned by Duke Power. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and history, making it a great destination for tourists.