Adventures abound in South Carolina all the way from the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean. And while the mountains and the coast are both epic places to explore, there are endless ways to have fun in the other areas of the Palmetto State, too. Sesquicentennial State Park, for example, is centrally located just 11 miles from the state capital and makes a great day trip destination from anywhere in the state. It’s also one of the most underrated state parks in the system.
The locals call the park Sesqui (pronounced: “Sess-Key”), for short. Let’s take a look at all the ways you can go adventuring at Sesqui:
TripAdvisor/hankelanie
- Ride a bike through the forest.
Google Local/John Levesque Sesqui has more than six miles of bike trails that are ideal for biking or hiking (and even more miles of trails that are just for walking and hiking).
- Go picnicking by the lake under one of the many shade trees.
Google Local/Brian Lacy Or, reserve one of the seven picnic shelters and picnic pads within the park and invite the whole gang out for a day of fun.
- Take a hike on 12 miles of hiking/biking trails.
Google Local/Gavin Russell Wander the forest, stroll by the lake, or just walk the dog. Anyway you look at it, there’s a full day’s worth of hiking available — and without epic mountain summits to conquer.
- Rent kayaks, canoes, and pedal boats.
TripAdvisor/the1agent4u The 30-acre lake is a perfectly picturesque spot to paddle upon the glistening water and enjoy reconnecting with nature and the great outdoors.
- Get away from your usual routine this weekend - and go camping.
South Carolina Parks Sesqui has 84 campsites that have electric and water — and RV’s are welcome.
- Have a large group and want to have your own camping area?
South Carolina Parks There are five primitive camping areas in the park that each accommodate up to 50 people.
- Explore the new colors of the season (in any season).
Google Whether you’re leaf peeping in the fall, or want to check out the new spring growth, Sesquicentennial State Park’s expansive 1,419 acres have plenty to see and admire.
- Chase waterfalls!
TripAdvisor/skiddymarkson The park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937 and there are many scenic areas along Jackson Creek which runs through the middle of the park.
- Cool off in hot weather months on the splash pad.
South Carolina Parks Nothing feels better or more refreshing on a hot summer day than playing in the water. The only splash pad found at any of the South Carolina state parks sports 26 different spray attractions, so getting bored here is never a worry.
- Check out the two-acre dog park.
TripAdvisor/the1agent4u In addition to the 12 miles of trails to wander with your four-legged friends, the park also sports a popular two-acre park that’s just for dogs.
- Photography, bird watching, and wildlife viewing abound.
Google Local/Stephan Jones While photo opportunities abound within the nearby capital city, the acres and acres of park at Sesqui provide a unique venue from which to capture breathtaking moments in a truly remarkable setting.
- Attend a nature program.
South Carolina Parks Grab a friend or the kids (or come alone!) and attend a nature outing. Explore nature trails and attend educational events designed to enhance your overall park experience. (See this link for upcoming events.)
- Get everyone together for the weekend and reserve the very affordable dorm-style lodge.
South Carolina Parks Sesqui’s lodge retreat features nice accommodations that include dormitory-style rooms. The lodge retreat includes a kitchen and a large dining hall/meeting room. The lodge is ideal for groups of up to 30 people and is often the go-to spot for family reunions, with some members staying at the lodge and others staying at the campground.
With so many ways to enjoy Sesquicentennial State Park, you’ll be planning a new adventure in no time!
TripAdvisor/hankelanie
Google Local/John Levesque
Sesqui has more than six miles of bike trails that are ideal for biking or hiking (and even more miles of trails that are just for walking and hiking).
Google Local/Brian Lacy
Or, reserve one of the seven picnic shelters and picnic pads within the park and invite the whole gang out for a day of fun.
Google Local/Gavin Russell
Wander the forest, stroll by the lake, or just walk the dog. Anyway you look at it, there’s a full day’s worth of hiking available — and without epic mountain summits to conquer.
TripAdvisor/the1agent4u
The 30-acre lake is a perfectly picturesque spot to paddle upon the glistening water and enjoy reconnecting with nature and the great outdoors.
South Carolina Parks
Sesqui has 84 campsites that have electric and water — and RV’s are welcome.
There are five primitive camping areas in the park that each accommodate up to 50 people.
Whether you’re leaf peeping in the fall, or want to check out the new spring growth, Sesquicentennial State Park’s expansive 1,419 acres have plenty to see and admire.
TripAdvisor/skiddymarkson
The park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1937 and there are many scenic areas along Jackson Creek which runs through the middle of the park.
Nothing feels better or more refreshing on a hot summer day than playing in the water. The only splash pad found at any of the South Carolina state parks sports 26 different spray attractions, so getting bored here is never a worry.
In addition to the 12 miles of trails to wander with your four-legged friends, the park also sports a popular two-acre park that’s just for dogs.
Google Local/Stephan Jones
While photo opportunities abound within the nearby capital city, the acres and acres of park at Sesqui provide a unique venue from which to capture breathtaking moments in a truly remarkable setting.
Grab a friend or the kids (or come alone!) and attend a nature outing. Explore nature trails and attend educational events designed to enhance your overall park experience. (See this link for upcoming events.)
Sesqui’s lodge retreat features nice accommodations that include dormitory-style rooms. The lodge retreat includes a kitchen and a large dining hall/meeting room. The lodge is ideal for groups of up to 30 people and is often the go-to spot for family reunions, with some members staying at the lodge and others staying at the campground.
Note: dogs using the dog park must obtain a permit from the park office, including a photo ID. The park is open year-round. For hours of operation, park entry fee, and more information in general, visit the park’s website.
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Address: Sesquicentennial State Park, 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223, USA
