Looking for an exciting new outdoor adventure this summer? Look no further than the unexpected wonders of South Carolina’s Old 96 District. Nestled in the state’s Upper Western section not far from Greenville, the Old 96 District has all of the nature to explore, without the crowds!
Hit the Trails!
We have more than 250 miles of trails, perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, birding, and exploring with the whole family! Start out easy with the 1-mile British Camp Trail loop, which takes place near a Revolutionary War battleground, following the British soldiers’ trail through the forest and alongside the river. Or, if you’re feeling up to a challenge, hike Stevens Creek Trail, a 6.7-mile hike in the scenic Hickory Knob State Resort Park. This hike is popular for its beautiful panoramic view of Lake Thurmond!
For the mountain bikers, check out Forks Area Trail System, which starts out as a gentle stroll, and then splinters off into six different loops, making several different route options to explore! For a shorter ride, take Lakeview Trail which has been optimized specifically for mountain bikers along the shoreline of Thurmond Lake.
Explore our full list of trails.
Dive In to a Lake Adventure!
Cool off near the water at one of our three lakes. Whether you are looking for your next largemouth bass fishing hole, wanting to get in some water skiing, or just needing a day to float around, we have the spot for you!
Lake Greenwood is a popular spot for fishing, locally famous for its bass, as well as boating and other activities around its 212 miles of shoreline. Lake Russell a 26,650-acre lake which stretches 30 miles up the Savannah River to Lake Hartwell Dam. Visitors can enjoy a diverse array of water activities in a pristine setting with abundant wildlife. Lake Thurmond is located on the South Carolina-Georgia border on the Savannah River, and at 42,564 acres, this reservoir is one of the nation’s largest inland bodies of water!
If you’re ready to get into the water, take a scenic guided kayak tour or rent your own and go exploring! Other rental options include stand-up paddleboards and pontoon boats.
Read more about our lakes here.
Get the Full Experience!
For those looking to spend more time in the outdoors or along the water, come camp along any of these lakes, or at any of our six State Parks. Campers at Hamilton Branch State Park can enjoy one of 150+ spacious, lakefront camping spots, an ideal spot for shoreline fishing. For a new outdoor adventure, rent one of 16 fully-furnished cabins at Hickory Knob State Resort Park, just 150 yards from the lake!
With 10 beautiful golf courses, fun shooting complexes including skeet fields and 3D archery, trails galore, pristine boating and water sports, and more, we have no doubt you’ll want to make the most of your stay to enjoy the unexpected wonders of the Old 96 District!
Check out our many itineraries and special offers and begin planning your trip.
All photos property of Old 96 Tourism.
