South Carolina is a wonderful place to live. The cities and towns here have strong traditions and a real sense of community. Our outdoor recreation can’t be beat…and the scenery in the state? Jaw-droppingly beautiful! However, no place is perfect. Just like any other state, there are some dangerous places to avoid in South Carolina – and we’re not just talking about dangerous cities in South Carolina. There are all sorts of dangerous places to avoid in South Carolina. Not so sure? Read on for the most dangerous places in South Carolina.

1. Intersection of Broad Street and I-20 in Columbia
Columbia, SC, USA
Google
This intersection is the most dangerous in the state, according to the South Carolina State Highway Office. In the span of one year alone, 39 accidents occurred in the intersection, leaving 11 people injured. If this is an intersection you must cross on a regular basis, take extra care.
2. Dillon
Dillon, SC 29536, USA
OZinOH/flickr
The town of Dillon was named the most dangerous in South Carolina, according to the website Road Snacks. Residents there have a 1 in 66 chance of being the victim of a violent crime.
3. Your Dining Table
Jeffrey W./flickr
Heart disease is the number one cause of death in South Carolina. Annually, 181 out of 100,000 South Carolinians die from this disease, compared to the national average of 166 per 100,000. Just walk away from that big plate of biscuits and gravy...or at least don't eat like this at every meal, every day!

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4. South Carolina's Beaches
Myrtle Beach, SC, USA
Randy/flickr
According to the website Shark Attack Data, there were seven sharks attacks in South Carolina in 2015. All were non-fatal, but occurred while beachgoers were standing or playing in the water. One attack occurred on Myrtle Beach (pictured). While shark attacks are still rare overall, it pays to be vigilant while playing in South Carolina's beautiful coastal waters.
5. Highway 17
Highway 17 South, Hwy 17 S, North Myrtle Beach, SC, USA
Doug Kerr/flickr
The website Skyscanner named South Carolina's Highway 17 as the fourth most dangerous road in the country. The highway has some absolutely gorgeous stretches and attractions, including one of the best gift shops in South Carolina, but sharp curves and the presence of wildlife, such as deer (who, as we know, can jump out in front of your car from out of nowhere!) cause multiple accidents.
6. Barnwell County
Barnwell County, SC, USA
Jimmy Emerson DVM/flickr
According to FBI statistics, Barnwell County has the highest rate of violent crime in the state, with 86 violent crimes per 100,000 people. Although it is one of South Carolina's most dangerous places, it also happens to be one of the most religious counties in South Carolina. Of course, it's good to keep in perspective that in any county you will have areas with more crime than others.
7. Your Home
province of british columbia/flickr
South Carolina ranks second in the nation for domestic violence - more than 300 women have died in the last 10 years. The rate of one death every 12 days is almost double the national average. No South Carolinian should feel afraid in her own home; hopefully increased awareness about domestic violence will help solve this problem.

So, there you have it – the seven most dangerous places in South Carolina. Overall, our state is a relatively safe, friendly place to live, work, and play. Don’t let a few dangerous spots deter you from having adventures here!

Aside from dangerous places to avoid in South Carolina, there are tons of spots worth seeking out. Need convincing? Check out these 10 unique South Carolina adventures.

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Most Dangerous Places In South Carolina

Daniella DiRienzo | December 28, 2021

What are the most dangerous cities in South Carolina?

Just like any other state, there are dangerous cities in South Carolina. According to the website Road Snacks, Darlington is among the most dangerous cities in South Carolina. The fairly small town, which has just under 6,000 residents, is most known for its tobacco farms and NASCAR races, but that’s not all it’s known for. In 2021, Road Snacks deemed it one of the most dangerous cities in South Carolina, citing an increase in property crime and violent crime compared to previous years. To put things into perspective, residents have a 1 in 67 chance of being the victim of a crime.

Are there any other dangerous places to avoid in South Carolina?

Among the dangerous places to avoid in South Carolina is Myrtle Beach, which, according to the FBI’s U.S. Crime Report, is the third most dangerous city in the nation. Several factors were taken into consideration when determining the most dangerous cities in the U.S. For instance, only cities with populations of 10,000 or more were analyzed. Next, the FBI evaluated the rates of violent crimes, personal crimes, and property crimes. Myrtle Beach isn’t the state’s only city that’s been deemed one of the most dangerous cities in South Carolina. A total of eight South Carolina cities ranked among the bottom 30 in America.

What are the most dangerous hikes in South Carolina?

In addition to tons of great hikes, there are a few dangerous hikes in South Carolina. One such hike can be found at Wildcat Wayside, a state-run park that’s located just off Highway 11 between Caesar’s Head and Jones Gap State Parks. Though small, Wildcat Wayside is brimming with beautiful sights, including a waterfall and lush white pine and hemlock forest. At one time, a trail led straight to the upper falls; however, because of several accidents, the trail has since been closed. Fortunately, Wildcat Wayside can still be explored via another short 0.8-mile trail.

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