Jefferson South CarolinaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jefferson, South Carolina.
1. Bermuda High Soaring
THRILLING AERIAL ADVENTURES
Bermuda High Soaring offers exhilarating glider experiences over the picturesque South Carolina landscape. Visitors can enjoy the thrill of engineless flight with experienced pilots guiding them through the skies. This highly-rated attraction provides a unique perspective of the region's natural beauty from thousands of feet in the air.
2. Forty Acre Rock
NATURAL GRANITE WONDER
Forty Acre Rock is a massive granite flatrock that serves as the centerpiece of a 2,267-acre heritage preserve near Jefferson. The preserve features rare plant species, hiking trails, and impressive vernal pools that form on the rock's surface after rainfall. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems including pine forests, hardwood forests, and a waterfall within this natural attraction.
3. Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge
PRISTINE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Carolina Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 45,000 acres of protected habitat just a short drive from Jefferson. The refuge is home to the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker and features extensive longleaf pine forests, diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, and miles of hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy fishing, photography, and seasonal hunting in this natural sanctuary.
4. Stevens Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION HUB
Stevens Park offers families and visitors a welcoming recreational space in Jefferson. The park features playground equipment, picnic areas, and open green spaces perfect for community gatherings and casual sports. Its convenient location makes it an ideal spot for locals and tourists to relax and enjoy outdoor activities.
5. Kershaw Skate Park
THRILLING SKATER'S PARADISE
Kershaw Skate Park provides skateboarding enthusiasts with a dedicated venue to practice their skills near Jefferson. The park features various ramps, rails, and obstacles designed for skaters of different skill levels. This community facility offers a safe environment for local youth and visitors to engage in action sports.
6. Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
SCENIC MOUNTAIN GETAWAY
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area offers breathtaking panoramic views from its 1,600-foot summit just across the state line from Jefferson, SC. Visitors can explore several hiking trails that wind through diverse forests featuring rare plant species and abundant wildlife. The park's natural beauty changes with the seasons, making it a year-round destination for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
7. Fort Sumter National Historical Park
CIVIL WAR LANDMARK
Fort Sumter National Historical Park preserves the historic fort where the first shots of the Civil War were fired on April 12, 1861. Visitors can reach the island fortress via boat tour from Charleston, exploring the museum exhibits and original artillery pieces. The site offers a powerful glimpse into American history and the conflict that redefined freedom in the United States.
8. Congaree National Park
ANCIENT FLOODPLAIN FOREST
Congaree National Park protects the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. Visitors can explore over 25 miles of hiking trails and a 2.4-mile elevated boardwalk that winds through this unique ecosystem. The park's towering trees, including numerous national and state champions, create an awe-inspiring canopy that shelters diverse wildlife and plant species.
9. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
REVOLUTIONARY ERA PLANTATION
Charles Pinckney National Historic Site preserves 28 acres of Snee Farm, once part of the plantation owned by a principal author and signer of the U.S. Constitution. The site features a 1828 coastal cottage surrounded by enchanting gardens and towering live oaks draped with Spanish moss. Visitors can explore exhibits that chronicle both Pinckney's political contributions and the lives of enslaved African Americans who worked the Lowcountry estate.
10. Cowpens National Battlefield
REVOLUTIONARY WAR VICTORY
Cowpens National Battlefield commemorates the site of a decisive American victory during the Revolutionary War on January 17, 1781. Visitors can walk the 1.25-mile battlefield trail, explore the visitor center museum exhibits, and view weapons demonstrations during special events. This historic site preserves the battlefield where General Daniel Morgan's tactical genius led to a stunning defeat of British forces under Banastre Tarleton.
11. Kings Mountain National Military Park
PATRIOTS' BATTLEFIELD VICTORY
Kings Mountain National Military Park preserves the site of a crucial American victory during the Revolutionary War that helped turn the tide of the southern campaign. Visitors can hike the 1.5-mile battlefield trail that passes several memorials, including the grave of Loyalist leader Patrick Ferguson. The park offers a visitor center with exhibits, films, and ranger programs that bring to life the story of this pivotal 1780 battle fought entirely between Americans loyal to different causes.
12. Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail
REVOLUTIONARY WAR PATH
Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route taken by patriot militia as they traveled to the Battle of Kings Mountain during the Revolutionary War. The 330-mile trail passes through four states and connects historic sites, museums, and monuments related to this pivotal 1780 campaign. Visitors can experience sections of the trail on foot or by car, following the same path that American Patriots took on their march to a decisive victory over Loyalist forces.
13. Jefferson Farmers Market
LOCAL PRODUCE & CRAFTS
Jefferson Farmers Market showcases the best local produce, handcrafted goods, and specialty foods from regional farmers and artisans. Visitors can browse stalls filled with seasonal fruits and vegetables, homemade preserves, baked goods, and unique craft items. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space where tourists and locals alike can experience authentic South Carolina flavors and traditions.
14. Sandhill Mercantile
CHARMING COUNTRY STORE
Sandhill Mercantile offers a nostalgic shopping experience reminiscent of old-fashioned general stores that once dotted rural South Carolina. Visitors can find an eclectic mix of locally-made products, antiques, home décor, and regional food specialties all under one roof. The store's warm atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular stop for those looking to take home unique souvenirs from their Jefferson visit.
15. Carolina Crossroads Music & Entertainment Center
REGIONAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Carolina Crossroads Music & Entertainment Center hosts concerts, festivals, and events showcasing the rich musical heritage of the Carolinas near Jefferson. Visitors can enjoy performances ranging from bluegrass and country to rock and regional folk music in this expansive outdoor venue. The center also features food vendors, craft displays, and family-friendly activities during its seasonal events calendar.