The National Park Service was created in 1916 by Congress with two missions: to preserve the historic integrity of designated places while also maintaining the ecology. Most people in South Carolina may believe we only have one such site, Congaree National Park. While semantically correct, the notion is far from true; we have more than one site. The NPS oversees national parks, national historic sites (such as Fort Sumter) and other places of historical significance entrusted to its care. In South Carolina, we have 10 such places. Below are the four most overlooked national parks to visit in South Carolina. Show them some love!

1. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site - Mt. Pleasant
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Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, 1254 Long Point Rd, Mt Pleasant, SC 29464, USA
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The property was once home to Charles Pinckney, a signer and contributing author of the Declaration of Independence. You'll get all the details at the visitor center located inside the historic house (circa 1820s), which was built after Pinckney's son sold the property in 1816. While much of the original parcel of land has been encroached upon by neighboring developments, the acreage that remains is well maintained. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site is located at 1254 Long Point Rd., Mt Pleasant, SC 29464. For information regarding hours and entry fees, visit the website for Charles Pinckney National Historic Site.
2. Cowpens National Battlefield - Chesnee
Cowpens National Battlefield | Visitor Center, 4001 Chesnee Hwy, Gaffney, SC 29341, USA
National Park Planner
TripAdvisor/STL_Voyagers
Your visit to Cowpens will place your feet exactly in the very spot where one of the most significant battles of the American Revolution took place. The Battle of Cowpens was decisive in the outcome of the war. During your visit, you can pay homage to those who fought by visiting the memorial on the grounds. Explore the visitors center, and walk along the historic Green River Road to follow in the footsteps of the Americans and British who fought on the road in this historic battle. Cowpens National Battlefield is located at 4001 Chesnee Hwy., Gaffney, SC 29341. To learn more about entry fees and hours, visit the website for Cowpens National Battlefield.

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3. The Overmountain Victory Trail - South Carolina
National Park Service
2625 Park Rd, Blacksburg, SC 29702, USA
TripAdvisor/Snubbie
The only driving tour on this list, the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail follows in the footsteps of patriot militia as they made their way to the most pivotal battle in the Revolutionary War. The entire driving trail passes through four states and is 330 miles long. You can pick it up in South Carolina at the North Carolina border and follow it all the way to Kings Mountain National Military Park in Blacksburg. Here is a link to the map for more details. Kings Mountain National Military Park is located at 2625 Park Rd., Blacksburg, SC 29702.
4. Reconstruction Era National Monuments - Various locations
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Beaufort County, SC, USA
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The only U.S. National Monument dedicated to the reconstruction era following the Civil War is located in Beaufort County and currently includes several sites of importance in the era immediately following the Civil War. For more information, check out the National Park Service's list of Reconstruction Era National Monuments in South Carolina. And be sure to visit Penn School at the Brick Church, and drive over to St. Helena Island to Mitchelville Park (shown above), the site of perhaps the first town for former enslaved people.

What are your favorite national parks to visit in South Carolina? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below!

And if you want to learn about a national park that’s not underrated, check out this ancient forest in South Carolina.

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national parks to visit in South Carolina

Elisa Regulski | February 17, 2022

What are the most picturesque hiking trails in South Carolina?

There is no shortage of hiking trails in South Carolina. We especially love exploring the Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve in Kershaw. This stunning spot spans 2,267 acres, and there’s no end to the exciting trails you can explore. If you’re looking for a lovely boardwalk trail, head over to Congaree National Park in Hopkins. This 2.4-mile stretch is super easy to navigate, and it’s surrounded by breathtaking sights. If you need more ideas, take a look at our list of the 14 best hiking trails in South Carolina.

Which state parks should I visit in South Carolina?

If you’re looking for the best parks in South Carolina, we know just where you should go. Table Rock State Park, located in Pickens County, looks gorgeous year-round. But, of course, this place really comes alive during autumn. When the crisp leaves float toward the ground, the entire area looks like a scene from a fairy tale. For more stunning sights, visit Caesars Head State Park in Greenville County. This place is home to five waterfalls and numerous camping spots. You’ll never want to leave! Need more travel inspiration? Check out these astounding state parks in South Carolina.

What are the best outdoor adventures in South Carolina?

Yearning to soak up the sun? Well, you’re in luck, because we know the best things to do outside in South Carolina. For starters, cannonball into one of the best swimming holes in South Carolina. If you want to travel off the beaten path, follow our hidden beaches road trip through South Carolina!

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