Are you thinking about a visit to Sumter’s unique Swan Lake Park? If you’re looking for a beautiful day trip from Columbia, look no further than Swan Lake Iris Gardens. We have all the details so you can plan your relaxing day at Swan Lake in Sumter, SC.
Swan Lake Iris Gardens: Quick Facts
📍 Location: 822 West Liberty Street, Sumter, SC 29150 (about an hour from Columbia)
🕖 Hours: 7:30 a.m. to dusk daily, weather permitting
🎟️ Cost: Free admission and free parking
🦢 Don’t miss: All eight swan species (the only public park in the U.S. with all eight) and 120+ varieties of Japanese iris
♿ Accessibility: 1,000-foot wheelchair-accessible boardwalk plus a sensory trail; most of the level lake loop suits strollers and walkers
📅 Annual events: Iris Festival (May), Easter Egg Hunt, Earth Day, and the holiday Fantasy of Lights
⚠️ Good to know: The Sister Wimberly Playground is closed for renovation (construction began early 2026); some areas may be temporarily inaccessible, so check ahead
☎️ Contact: Sumter Visitors Center, (803) 436-2640
Swan Lake in Sumter, SC: Location
At 822 West Liberty Street (US 763) in Sumter, South Carolina, 29150, you’ll find ample parking and a visitor’s center and park office open Monday- Friday 8:30- 5 pm, though park officers remain around on weekends, after hours, and of course during events.
Swan Lake Park Hours
The gardens are open from 7:30 am until dusk, except in extreme weather.
Is there a cost for Swan Lake Iris Gardens?
The park is completely Free.
Things to Do at Swan Lake Gardens
The park is gorgeous throughout the year and provides a very calming atmosphere for kids to adventure. It is ideal for sensory-friendly families. The sensory trail enables the sight impaired to enjoy the scents and sensations of the garden, as it is filled with smells, textures, and sounds. The 1,000-foot boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and most of the sandy, shady path around the lake is level and easily doable in walkers and strollers, except after rough weather.
The walk around the lake is a less than a mile loop, so it is very easy for newbies and toddlers to manage. You’ll spot several statues around the park.
In addition to other wildlife, this park features all eight swan species. You will see some species of swan, guaranteed, and learn about lots of swan facts as they are posted along the paths. Fun fact: this park is the only public park in the United States with all 8 species of swan.
You’ll also see hundreds of massive trees, other animals and plant species, and the “most intensive planting of Japanese Iris in the United States,” which are great to view in warmer seasons.
Lunch at Swan Lake
Food is available for sale in the Market for lunch at the end of the week, or there are picnic areas you may use yourself. There are also snack and drink machines available near the Visitor’s Center. Be sure to double-check ahead of time online to see if the cafe is open if you plan to get lunch there.
More Things to Do
Heads up: the Sister Wimberly Playground is currently closed for a major renovation. The City of Sumter began construction in early 2026 to replace the old equipment—which included swings, slides, climbing features, benches, and a beloved old-timey firetruck—with modern, nature-inspired, inclusive play structures designed for children of all ages and abilities. It’s the playground’s first major overhaul since the 1970s, part of a larger improvement project ahead of the gardens’ 100th anniversary in 2027. The work is expected to take about 260 days, and some areas of the gardens may be temporarily inaccessible while it’s underway, so it’s smart to check ahead before you visit. We can’t wait to see the new play space!
The city is also renovating the park’s long-closed North Entrance during this time—adding new walkways, refreshed landscaping, and restored brick columns and gates—so a few pathways or gateways may look different or be blocked off. The Prisma Health Shot Pouch Greenway around the northern edge of the lake stays open throughout.
Please note, photography is permitted. However, fishing and boating are not. Likewise, no pets are allowed.
Swan Lake Events
Perhaps, the Iris Gardens are most famous for the Iris Festival, a free festival that has won many awards and been featured in Southern Living and other magazines.
In addition, other events throughout the year at Swan Lake include an Easter Egg Hunt, an Earth Day celebration, and the holiday Fantasy of Lights. Find more Swan Lake Events here.
The park also allows weddings! Family reunions and birthday parties can be held at the Swan Lake Iris Gardens as well
Is Swan Lake Iris Gardens free to visit? Yes. Admission and parking are both completely free.
Is the playground open? Not right now. The Sister Wimberly Playground is being fully rebuilt (construction began in early 2026), and some areas of the gardens may be temporarily inaccessible while the work continues. The rest of the park remains open, so it’s still a lovely visit—just check ahead before you go.
When is the best time to see the irises? Late spring, when the Japanese iris burst into bloom. That’s also when the city hosts the free Sumter Iris Festival (May 15–17 in 2026).
Is it stroller- and wheelchair-friendly? Yes. The 1,000-foot boardwalk is wheelchair accessible, and most of the level, roughly one-mile loop around the lake is easy for strollers and walkers (except after heavy rain).
Find more great day trip destinations!
Our Day Trip Guide has over 50 amazing day trips from Columbia, SC.
Are you looking for day trip ideas near the Columbia, South Carolina area? You have found our official Kidding Around Day Trip Headquarters! We have compiled our ever-expansive list of day trip offerings to one page, where you can easily find your desired trip, fuel your wanderlust, and still have the kiddos back by bedtime! Happy adventuring!
We’ve found the perfect place for families to kick back, relax, and actually enjoy going out together. Say hello to Lazy Creek Taphouse in Chapin, a chill, community-focused hangout where kids can play, grown-ups can sip something cold, and even the dog gets to join the fun!
Here’s why this laid-back taproom should be your next outing, yes, even tonight.
Lazy Creek is anything but basic when it comes to beverages. They’ve got a full lineup of craft beers, ciders, seltzers, and wines, plus kid-friendly drinks like sodas and juices. You’ll find familiar favorites and off-the-wall flavors, including the much-talked-about Dill Pickle Cider and Blue Quencher Gatorade Seltzer (yep, really!). These two drinks are seasonal, but give you a good idea of the creative drinks that get rotated at Lazy Creek.
One of the coolest things? Their self-serve cooler packed with singles lets you mix and match to create your own custom six-pack. It’s a fun way to try something new or stock up on your go-to brews. And when you grab a draft, you’ll notice something a little different, cups that fill from the bottom! It’s a small detail, but it totally adds to the fun factor.
Bring the Kids, the Dog, and Your Appetite
Lazy Creek isn’t just beer and barstools. It’s a family-friendly, pet-friendly spot with a welcoming vibe from the moment you arrive. Kids absolutely loved the outdoor turf area, perfect for running around while the grown-ups relax nearby. There’s also cornhole and a shelf full of board games, so there’s always something to keep everyone entertained.
Hungry? There’s a rotating lineup of food trucks parked outside regularly, serving everything from pizza and burgers to creative eats that change with the day. If you’d rather pack a picnic or grab takeout from home, that’s totally welcome too. Lazy Creek keeps it easy and stress-free.
Laid-Back Vibes with Room to Roam
While the indoor space isn’t huge, it feels cozy and inviting. And thanks to plenty of outdoor seating, it never feels crowded. Whether you snag a picnic table on the lawn or find a shady spot near the games, you’ll have room to breathe and time to connect.
The staff is incredibly friendly, like “remember-your-name” kind of friendly, which makes it feel more like hanging at a neighbor’s backyard than a business. It’s casual, low-key, and genuinely relaxing. No rushing, no stress, no side-eye if your kid drops a juice box.
Special Events at Lazy Creek Taphouse
From trivia nights to seasonal events, Lazy Creek keeps things fresh with a calendar full of fun. It’s a great option for a last-minute Friday night plan or a casual Sunday afternoon. No sitter? No problem. With space for the kids to play and food to keep everyone full, it’s an outing that works for the whole crew.
Plan Your Visit
Lazy Creek Taphouse 306 St. Peters Church Rd, Chapin, SC 29036 Open Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays) Food trucks rotate weekly—check their website or socials for the schedule.
Looking for a spot that’s easy, fun, and totally family-approved? Lazy Creek Taphouse checks all the boxes. Stop by this weekend and see why it’s quickly becoming a local favorite!
What would your crew try first—Dill Pickle Cider or Blue Quencher Seltzer? Let us know in the comments!
Your kids can play while you grab a drink or some food truck food at Lazy Creek Taphouse in Chapin, SC!
Are you in need of free school supplies or clothing for your students this upcoming school year in and around Columbia, SC?
With the school year quickly approaching, families could be feeling extra financial pressure, and we understand that all the supplies, clothing, bookbags, etc. add up quickly! Fortunately, local churches, community groups, schools, and organizations are planning some free back-to-school supply events. Whether you’re in need of supplies, lunch boxes, backpacks, or even clothing we’ve got a great list of places for you!
It is estimated that families will spend, on average, about $750 to get their kids ready to head back to school. While that number is shocking and stressful for so many, our Columbia community has done a fantastic job at putting together back-to-school supply drives and free events for families in need.
These events are fun and often include live music and free cook-out-style lunches in addition to a school supply giveaway. Celebrate back to school! The easiest way to get free school supplies for kids is to look for these community events. Below are several options for your kiddos to get what is on their school list in Columbia, SC.
Free School Supplies Events for Kids Near Columbia, SC
Back To School Bashes – Richland County Recreation Commission
Multiple Events! The Richland County Recreation Commission hosts a series of free Back-to-School Bashes at parks across the county each summer, with school supplies and book bags available while supplies last (children must be present to receive supplies). When: Summer 2026 – the commission has confirmed the 2026 series is returning. Details: To find the location nearest you and confirm dates, call (803) 741-7272, ext. 104 or visit the Richland County Recreation Commission Facebook Page.
Back to School Bash
When: July 25th, 2026 from 9-11:30 am Where: Seven Oaks Park – 200 Leisure Lane, Columbia Details: This special event is for adults and children with hearing loss and their families. Various vendors provide information about different sources of support as well as free school supplies. Back to School Bash
Details: It’s TCC’s annual School Rocks Giveaway, and students can receive one backpack stocked with school supplies. This event giveaway is a first come, first served basis, so plan to be there early! Be sure to call ahead of time to confirm that the location you plan to head to is participating in this event. School Rocks Backpack Giveaway
Community Back to School Bash
When: July 31st, 2026 from 6 – 8:30 pm Where: Right Direction Church International, 3506 Broad River Road, Columbia Details: Giveaways, school supplies, school clothes, books, haircuts, and free food. Community Back to School Bash
Back to School Bash – CMMS FOUNDATION
When: August 1st, 2026 from 9 am to 2 pm Where: Greenview Community Center, 6700 David Street, Columbia Details: This event will have school supplies, barbers, hair stylists, nail techs, food vendors, and so much more! Back to School Bash – CMMS Foundation
Back to School Bash – Build Up SC
When: August 1st, 2026 from 12 pm to 4 pm Where: 450 Meeting Street, West Columbia Details: Build Up SC hosts an afternoon of fun, games, and school supplies for the community. Back to School Bash – Build Up SC
Back to School Bash – Lexington 2 School District
When: August 3rd, 2026 from 4:30-6 pm Where: Saluda River Academy for the Arts – 1520 Duke Street, West Columbia Details: This event was held in the school cafeteria. Back to School Bash
Gamecock School Supplies
When: Throughout the school year Where: Student Success Center Details: This service is ONLY for undergraduates of the University of South Carolina. While this service is a little different than other events listed, we wanted to get the word out to any families that have college students! The Gamecock supply closet is the newest service of the Student Success Center and offers free school supplies such as notebooks, scantrons, dry erase boards, calculators, and much, much more. Students can utilize this service once every two weeks and all undergraduates are eligible with their valid Carolina Card. Gamecock School Supplies
Back to School Bash: S & S Braiding and Weaving Studio
When: TBA Where: 7206 Parklane Road, Columbia, Suite E Details: School supplies, food, bounce houses, games, and more!
Back to School Bash: Wise Tax & Company
When: TBA Where: River Center Plaza – 1722 Broad River Road, Suite G, Columbia Details: Free food, school supplies, and backpacks! Shoe giveaway, and so much more!
Columbia Free School Supplies: FAQs
When are the 2026 back-to-school supply events in Columbia, SC?
Confirmed 2026 events include the CMMS Foundation Back to School Bash on July 19 at Greenview Community Center, the TCC School Rocks Backpack Giveaway on Sunday, July 26, and the Build Up SC Back to School Bash on August 1 in West Columbia. The Richland County Recreation Commission is also bringing back its annual series of free Back-to-School Bashes at county parks ahead of the new school year – check its website for the latest dates and locations.
Do the free school supply events cost anything or require registration?
These community events are free, and supplies are given away while they last. Most ask that the child or student be present to receive supplies, and some organizers recommend arriving early or calling ahead to confirm details.
Where can college students in Columbia get free school supplies?
University of South Carolina undergraduate and graduate students can visit Gamecock School Supplies at the Student Success Center in Thomas Cooper Library for free notebooks, calculators, and more, year-round with a valid Carolina Card.
The Carolina Panthers Training Camp is a unique opportunity to watch a professional football team up close, and it should be on every Charlotte area family’s bucket list!
We’ve got all the info you’ll need if you plan on going to watch the Carolina Panthers train at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC this year!
Quick Facts: Carolina Panthers Training Camp 2026 📍 Location: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, NC 🗓️ Camp begins: Rookies report July 21; veterans report July 22, 2026 🎟️ Cost: Free — reserve tickets through Ticketmaster 🧒 Ages: Family-friendly (all ages welcome) 👉 See the full 2026 schedule & reserve free tickets (Schedule will be announced for 2026 in mid-July)
The 2026 Carolina Panthers Training Camp is held at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, NC. Rookies report July 21 and veterans report July 22, 2026.
When Carolina Panthers Training Camp roars into Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, fans of professional football should be sure to head to the stadium to watch!
Whether you have multiple trips under your belt or are visiting for the first time, this information will be handy to help you make the most of a day watching the Carolina Panthers Train.
Carolina Panthers Training Camp 2016
Wofford College
Spartanburg, SC
What to Expect at a Carolina Panthers Training Session
2026 Carolina Panthers Training Camp Schedule
Attendance at open practices is completely free, but you will need to reserve your free Panthers training tickets through Ticketmaster. The Panthers post the full day-by-day practice schedule, times, and ticket details on their official training camp page.
The Panthers open a number of summer practices to the public for free at Bank of America Stadium, typically in late July and August. We will update when dates are announced.
Some sessions are special events held apart from the regular open practices, such as Back Together Saturday and the Panthers’ annual Fan Fest.
Attending The Carolina Panthers’ Training Session in Charlotte, NC
Covered seating is first come, first serve—gates open one hour prior to the start of practice. No outside food or beverages are allowed, and the clear bag policy will be in effect.
In the event of inclement weather, practice times may be shifted or canceled. Updates for training camp status will be posted by the Panthers on X.
Can I bring food to the Panthers Training Camp?
No outside food or beverages are allowed.
Visiting Charlotte, NC for Training Camp
Fans of the Panthers may be visiting Charlotte for the first time. The training camps are just a few hours in the morning, so that leaves the rest of the day to explore!
Guest Itinerary for Charlotte Visitors to Carolina Panther Training Camp
Autographs are back this year! Fans will hopefully be able to get an autograph after practices are over. Look for the signs that will direct you to the designated area along the fence. All players don’t necessarily stop there but there is certainly the potential for players to stop and sign autographs for fans.
Attending The Carolina Panthers’ Fan Fest in Charlotte, NC
The Panthers also host an annual Fan Fest at Bank of America Stadium — a family-friendly event with entertainment, activities for kids, and a fireworks show to cap off the night.
Have you visited Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve near Columbia, SC? It has a hidden falls hike! It is also not very well known or overly crowded. But, it is home to the midlands’ only naturally occurring waterfall. It’s about 20 feet high but not a ton of water. It is more impressive after rains but don’t go too soon after unless you love mud.
Looking for an easy hike for little ones that has a water feature? The Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve trail is considered a baby trail with very little incline. However, it is not stroller or wheelchair friendly.
2026 Peachtree Rock Quick Details and Planning Tips
Hours & Access: Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve remains fully open and accessible! The preserve is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Best of all, admission and parking are completely free.
Facilities: This is a true, primitive nature preserve. There are no restrooms or drinking water facilities onsite, so be sure to pack adequate water and plan your bathroom breaks before you arrive at the trailhead.
Free Guided Hikes: Managed by The Nature Conservancy in partnership with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR), the preserve serves as a vital conservation and education site. For a deeper look at the unique geology here, SC DNR hosts free “Hikes with a Naturalist” programs throughout 2026 (including upcoming sessions on April 24th and September 19th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM). Registration is available through the SCDNR website.
Getting There: The parking lot is located at 883 Peachtree Rock Rd, Lexington, SC, roughly a 30-minute drive from downtown Columbia.
About Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve, Lexington County
The Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve is 460 acres of land managed by South Carolina Department of Natural Resources and the SC Chapter of the Nature Conservancy. The preserve consists of sandstone formations and outcrops, pines, and wetlands.
The walk from the preserve parking lot to the giant Peachtree Rock, an inverted pyramid, and the falls and creek is just about half a mile. The trail is mostly flat with a few spots that have a brief 30-degree uphill stretch. Also, the path is typically clear.
Remember, it will also be a half mile walk back, but again, one of the easiest if you’re just starting.
Pets and playing along the path are very welcome as more experienced hikers aren’t often bursting past. Toddlers and young children love exploring the trail and touching the water.
Or, if you want to do the full loop, it is 7.5 miles, so there is something for everyone. Further along the path is the historic site for Peachtree Rock Moonshine Still and “Little Peachtree Rock.” Plus, you can even spy some fossils, making it a decent homeschool field trip.
Note, there are NO bathrooms or water fountains around, so come prepared. Please, use the BATHROOM before. Verizon customers typically receive decent cellular and data reception.
Peachtree Hike: Things to Bring
For a fun, safe hike, you might want to bring:
a map image of the trail so you don’t end up on the long portion (blue trail, stay to the left)
charged cell phone for photos and emergencies
bug spray and maybe sunscreen unless you want a very fussy afternoon
water and a trail-friendly snack
good shoes, for hiking and snake protection
clothes that can get dirty
carrier for baby/toddler in case they get tired
bonus, a durable, cheap toy to explore with you or nature scavenger hunt, or the like to keep kids engaged
Summary: A guide to the best state parks near Columbia, SC. From lake adventures and hiking trails to splash pads and wildlife spotting, plus tips to save money on your visit! Included is also information about SC’s newest state park!
You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for South Carolina state parks near Columbia, SC. While the Midlands region boasts dozens of wonderful city parks and an award-winning zoo, it’s also home to some of South Carolina’s absolute best state parks. Whether you want to splash in a premium splash pad, paddle across a quiet lake, or catch a stunning sunset over Lake Murray, Columbia serves as the perfect base camp for a day trip or weekend camping adventure.
To help you choose the perfect destination for your next family outing, we’ve updated our guide with the latest 2026 hours, admission rates, ongoing park projects, and features.
SC State Parks Near Columbia At-A-Glance
State Park
Distance from Downtown
Key Highlights
2026 Admission (Daily)
Best For
Sesquicentennial State Park
~15 minutes (9564 Two Notch Rd)
26-sprayer splash pad, boat rentals, 6-mile bike trail, dog park
Boating, catfish fishing, and quiet lakeside picnics
Sesquicentennial State Park (“Sesqui”)
To find out about the hiking, splash pad, paddling, and camping available at Sesquicentennial in northeast Columbia, check out our Kidding Around® Review of Sesqui.
Address: 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223 (Richland County) Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM to sunset. Park office open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission: $6 adults; $3.75 SC seniors (65+); $3.50 children ages 6–15; free for ages 5 and under. Sesqui State Park
Affectionately known as “Sesqui” by locals, this expansive, wooded retreat was originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s. It sits just 15 minutes from downtown Columbia, offering an instant escape into nature without a long drive.
The Sesqui Splash Pad: The centerpiece for local parents! This fully enclosed, seasonal splash pad features 26 water sprayers with a 10-foot maximum height. Best of all, it is completely free with your regular park admission. Convenient changing areas, restrooms, and shade seating are located right next to it.
Boating & Rentals: Swimming isn’t allowed in the lake, but paddling is! You can rent canoes and kayaks for $10/hour (or $30/day) and pedal boats for $15/hour.
Trails & Recreation: Hike the easy 2-mile Sandhills Hiking Trail, challenge yourself on the 6-mile mountain biking loop, or let the kids loose on the two large playgrounds.
Dog-Friendly Features: Sesqui features a fantastic 2-acre off-leash dog park! To use it, you just need a permit ($25/year or $4/day) along with proof of current vaccinations and spay/neuter status. Leashed dogs are allowed everywhere else in the park.
2026 Advisory Note: If you plan on camping, please note that a brand new restroom facility is currently under construction in Loop 1 of the campground. While day-use spaces and playgrounds are completely unaffected, campers may notice temporary utility disruptions and light construction traffic.
Tech Note: Please plan ahead—there is no public Wi-Fi available at Sesqui, though an EV charging station is available for electric vehicles.
Address: 150 Pine Island Rd, Columbia, SC 29212 Hours: Soft opening phase through March 31, 2026. Regular operating hours begin April 2, 2026 (Open Thursday through Sunday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM). Admission: $6 adults; $3.75 SC seniors (65+); $3.50 children ages 6–15; free for ages 5 and under. Pine Island State Park
Big news for Lake Murray lovers! Pine Island—a scenic 20+ acre property formerly owned by the energy company SCANA—has officially joined the South Carolina State Parks system as one of its newest additions.
What to Know Before You Go: Because Pine Island is meant to be a day-use sanctuary, no camping is permitted, and there is no public boat launch on-site. However, leashed pets are welcome to join you for a walk along the water. Admission matches the standard state park structure ($6 adults, $3.75 seniors, $3.50 kids).
The Amenities: Pine Island offers unbeatable public water access right near the dam. Families can take advantage of a full-service marina, expansive picnic shelters perfect for family reunions, and spectacular sunset views over Lake Murray.
If you want a full-scale Lake Murray adventure where you can actually put your boat in the water, head northwest to Dreher Island. Spanning three distinct islands connected to the mainland by a drivable roadway, it’s a paradise for water sports.
Activities: Top-tier recreational boating, fishing, scuba diving, and swimming (at your own risk). The park features three short walking trails, three playgrounds, and a visitor center complete with public Wi-Fi access.
Stay the Night: Unlike Pine Island, Dreher Island features expansive lakeside campgrounds and rental villas (note: pets are generally restricted from inside the villas).
Good hack to know: even though it is an island, you can drive on State Park Road to get there- no boat needed! However, boating is permitted, and there are boat ramps available. On the island, you can explore woods, beaches, playgrounds, and wildlife, including rare birds on the lake.
The park has three different short walking trails and three playgrounds. You can find a visitors’ center with WIFI where you can also buy a few things or use picnic tables. Camping, swimming (at your own risk), geocaching, fishing, and scuba diving are permitted. Note, dogs should be on a leash and may not be allowed in camping villas.
Without your Park Passport, Dreher Island costs $3 for adults, $1.50 for seniors, $1 for kids 6-15 and free for kids 5 and under. It’s open from dawn to dusk, with hours changing seasonally.
Aiken State Park
Address: 1145 State Park Rd, Aiken, SC 29801 Hours: Open daily 9:00 AM to sunset. Admission: $3 adults; $1.50 SC seniors (65+); $1 children ages 6–15; free for ages 5 and under. Aiken State Park Website
Located about an hour’s drive from Columbia, Aiken State Park is a hidden gem nestled along the South Carolina backcountry. Like Sesqui, it showcases beautiful historic CCC architecture.
Activities: Best known for its blackwater paddling trail down the south fork of the Edisto River. Canoe rentals are available on-site. It also offers a unique Free Fishing Tackle Loaner Program—perfect for introducing kids to fishing without buying expensive gear. It features quiet walking trails, a small playground, and peaceful campsites.
Address: 302 State Park Rd, Ninety Six, SC 29666 Hours: Open daily 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM (extended during Daylight Saving Time). Park office open daily 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission: $3 adults; $1.50 SC seniors (65+); $1 children ages 6–15; free for ages 5 and under. Lake Greenwood State Park Website
If you love the idea of a massive lake day but want a slightly more relaxed, hidden-gem vibe than Lake Murray, Lake Greenwood State Park is well worth the drive. Located just over an hour northwest of Columbia, this 914-acre park stretches beautifully along the shoreline of Lake Greenwood.
Water, Water, Everywhere: This park is a dream for boaters and anglers. It features two public boat ramps, a fishing pier, and easy shoreline access for catching bass and catfish. Feel free to swim anywhere along the shore except near the boat ramps and docks (at your own risk).
The Drummond Center: A massive plus for families is the park’s beautiful, air-conditioned visitor center. It hosts interactive educational exhibits about local wildlife and the history of the Civilian Conservation Corps (the group that built the park). Free public Wi-Fi is available right inside the center.
Trails & Camping: Take a family stroll down the scenic East Shoreline Loop trail (open for both hiking and biking). If you want to turn it into a weekend trip, the park offers 125 paved campsites equipped with 50-amp electrical hooks and water right near the lake.
Bonus Hacks! SC State Parks Tips to Save You Money & Maximize Fun
Admission Discount
SC State Parks offer admission discounts up to 50% for seniors, military, and the disabled. Each park’s discount will be slightly different. For Dreher Island, you can get your park admission for HALF the standard admission rate if you can show an ID (or handicapped placard) to prove you are: -Disabled -SC National Guard -Over 65
Ultimate Outsider Challenge
Here’s another secret to maximizing the fun with these parks. They offer an Ultimate Outsider program. Simply pick up or order your Ultimate Outsider Guide, do activities and collect stamps from each park to become an Ultimate Outsider! It’s a fun challenge to get you motivated to do more outside.
As you might know, a SC Park Passport is an affordable way to get access to hundreds of acres of wilderness, free activities, learning, events and more.
Here’s How it Works: First, you can get your All Park Passport online or at any South Carolina State Park Office. Your pass hangs in your car rearview mirror, like a handicapped placard and comes with a card for inside exhibits. It’s just $99 for your entire family for the whole year of access.
For this, you get unlimited access to all the state parks in the state. That means everything from Hunting Island Beach, to several lakes, to hiking in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains at Caesar’s Head and Table Rock. Actually, that is 48 state parks.
So, if you went to one every month, it would take you nearly four years to see them all. On the other hand, if you went to one every week, you could finish in a year!
Now, you can explore the Columbia state parks and beyond for a discount!
Columbia’s National Park
For information on our FREE National Park, home to a unique synchronized firefly phenomenon (for which our local baseball team is named), check out our Kidding Around® review of Congaree National Park.
Please tell us your favorite Columbia, South Carolina State Parks!
Looking for fun, educational, toddler-friendly farm events near Columbia? Crosswind Farm has lots of events, including special holiday events to homeschool days. They also offer traveling birthday party services and traveling petting zoos as well as birthday parties on location, animal photo shoots, and more.
We have experienced a few of their events, and the kids really enjoyed them. We also got photos from them, and they are some of our favorites. Here’s what you need to know if you’re interested in their many different services.
Getting to Crosswind Farm
The drive to Crosswind Farm is about 1 hour from Columbia, and not a lot is on the way. The area is beautiful farmland and woods, though. Just before you get there, you’ll turn past an old church before your turn between two farms.
Careful, don’t miss the sign on the left in a wooded drive for Crosswind Farm at 799 Target Road, Holly Hill, SC 29059.
Family-Owned Farm
You’re going to be driving right up to this family-owned business’ family home. There’s plenty of parking. You’ll likely be greeted by a large, friendly dog or a barn cat. There are several of each that roam freely. A stray chicken or two is another common, fun sight.
Keep in mind, Crosswind Farm is a family business, and it is at their home so you will walk right past their home from parking to the animal pens and fields.
However, there is a food truck as well as a building containing restrooms, a huge shaded barn you can sit in, and plenty of hand sanitizer stations.
Inside the Farm
Once inside, you’ll pay at the barn for the event and whatever extras you want to add on. For us, toddler Tuesdays were just $5 and adults are free. Add-ons, like food for the animals or pony rides, were only a couple of dollars as well.
Plus, there are numerous animal pens to greet and pet. While you’ll see classic farm favorites like goats, sheep, cows, and pigs, Crosswind Farm has grown to include incredible exotic animal encounters! Kids can get up close with a camel, kangaroos, ringtail lemurs, a coatimundi, tortoises, and even a capybara.
Overall, it’s a laid-back place where kids can alternate between toys and animals in a farm experience.
When to Go to the Farm: Special Events
The farm is NOT open daily. The Crosswind Farm Facebook page is the place to go for an updated list of the farm’s upcoming events. Crosswind Farm hosts holiday events, homeschool learning days with themes such as bees, and Toddler Tuesdays monthly.
Book Crosswind Services:
If you want to experience the farm outside of their scheduled public events, you can book a Private Farm Tour. For $175, up to 10 people get a 60-minute guided walkthrough where you can actually go inside the animal enclosures to pet, hold, and take photos with over 50+ animals.
For birthdays, their on-farm parties include playground access, 50 cups of animal feed, and a barrel train or hayride.
Or, check out the Crosswind Farm website to book them for private tours, parties, and visits. They are very affordable, and here are some of the services they offer.
private birthday parties
private tours
field trips
animal visits/birthday/petting zoo at your location
horse rides at your location
photography
They accept a wide range of convenient payment options, including Venmo, CashApp, and credit cards directly on their site.
Crosswind Farm 799 Target Road, Holly Hill, SC 29059 NOT OPEN DAILY
Quick Look: Blueberry Picking Near Columbia, SC U-pick blueberry farms near Columbia are open seasonally from late May through early July. Top spots include Berry Hill Farm (Lexington), Smith Blueberry Farm (Leesville), Southern Blues Blueberry Farm (Chapin), and AA Farms LLC. Prices range from $1.75–$2 per pound; most farms are cash or check only. Always call ahead, opening dates shift with the weather and crop conditions.
It’s summer berry season, and if you love blueberry picking, Columbia, SC has a few patches and local farms that are perfect for u-pick blueberries. Need details? We’ve got you covered! Berry season is short, so get ready to fill up your basket at one of these local farms.
Things to Know Before You Go Blueberry Picking
First off, speaking from the experience of someone who picks blueberries in Columbia yearly, here are some tips to make your experience better for kids:
You will need bug spray. These berries grow in the shade of bushes that can last decades, and in our experience, that moist, green area invites those itchy monsters. Whatever you use, you’ll want to use it well to make sure this experience isn’t just scratching and aloe-inducing.
Also, going early in the day seems to help. This way, you can beat the crowds and the heat!
Wear closed-toed shoes.
Always make sure to visit a restroom before you get to the blueberry patch.
Patches Open for Blueberry Picking: Columbia, SC
Berry Hill Farm
Berry Hill Farm is open now for blueberry picking! This farm has been around for 40 years and uses organic pesticides only.
First, here are a few things to know before you go:
It is not walker-friendly, but there are lower fields that they will try to help make wheelchair accessible.
They are open from 7:30 am – 1:00 and 6:00 pm till dark, Monday – Saturday. Yes, they are closed in the afternoon, the hottest part of the day, and you will likely be glad. Also, they are closed on Sundays.
Please note, the blueberries are $2 per lb and they only take cash or check, no cards or Venmo. However, you will not need buckets; they have their own for you to use.
You can call the farm ahead of time to make sure they are open, but do not call late at night or on Sunday.
Berry Hill Farm 219 Bluefield Road, Lexington, SC 803.957.4203
Smith Blueberry Farm
Smith Blueberry Farm is a pesticide-free blueberry farm in Leesville, SC will open for u-pick on June 18, 2026. They will have sporadic u-pick dates, so follow their Facebook to see which days they will have the patches open to the public.
Their general season hours are Monday-Saturday from 7 am to 11 am, and 5 pm to 8 pm. Sunday hours are 5 pm to 8 pm. Please call ahead to make sure the patch is open before heading there.
Smith Blueberry Farm 341 Holley Ferry Road, Leesville, SC 1.803.532.6219
Southern Blues Blueberry Farm
If you cannot make it to Lexington, Southern Blues Blueberry Farm in Chapin also has blueberry picking near Columbia.
They are $1.75 per pound, and it’s cash or check only. It is u-pick and honor system pay. They are open Thursday, Friday, and Saturday according to their Facebook page.
Southern Blues Blueberry Farm 216 East Boundary Street, Chapin, SC 803.227.9660
AA Farms LLC
AA Farms LLC is a restored 10-acre blueberry farm that reopened in 2024 and is open for u-pick starting May 2026. Hours are Friday and Saturday 8 am–4 pm and Sunday 1–4 pm. Call ahead or check their website before you go, as seasonal hours can shift.
AA Farms LLC 803.999.7445 5412 Bluff Rd, Columbia, SC
Drive a Little Further for Blueberry Picking
Oak Grove Farm of Gaston, SC
You can find u-pick blueberries in nearby Oak Grove Farm, but you’ll need to keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates about hours. You can also contact them directly by phone to see if they are open on the day you want to go. Prepicked blueberries, eggs, and the occasional pork for the BBQ can be purchased as well.
Oak Grove Farm 872 Old Sandy Run Road, Gaston, SC 803.917.2694
Farms That Are a 1+ Hour Drive from Columbia, SC
Up for a longer drive? You’ll find options in North, SC (Orangeburg County) and a few in Aiken/North Augusta. These farms are all about one hour’s drive away, including Honalee Farm, Herbs N Berries, and Kiser Family Farm.
Did we miss anyone? What is your favorite place to go blueberry picking near Columbia, South Carolina?
Have you heard about Kroger Chef Junior? This program offers a low-cost opportunity for kids to learn a new cooking skill in a mini-cooking class. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to spend a little quality time with Mom or Dad. Kroger Chef Junior is a program found at participating Kroger stores in South Carolina and Georiga, including both Columbia, SC and Atlanta, GA. We tried the Kroger Chef Junior in Columbia, SC and had a blast.
Each month is a different, simple recipe, usually themed. For example, we went in May and did Fiesta Corn for Cinco de Mayo. It was very fun and something we look forward to doing again! So, here’s everything you need to know about Kroger Chef Junior from registration to what to expect at the class.
Kroger Chef Junior: Does Your Store Participate?
First off, go online to the Kroger Chef Junior Website and put in your zip code to find the locations close to you that offer Kroger Chef Junior. Currently in Columbia, SC, two Kroger stores offer Kroger Chef Junior, and both are in northeast Columbia. One is off Two Notch Road just before Sandhills Mall – near the Target and Spring Valley High School – while the other is northwest on Robert’s Branch Parkway.
1028 Roberts Branch Parkway, Columbia
10136 Two Notch Road
Once you select a location, you will need to register for the class online.
Date and Time: Kroger Cooking Classes for Kids
As for when it is, classes are offered on select Saturdays between 9:00 am and 1:30 pm. As I said, there is one recipe class per month. That recipe is offered two weekends out of the month.
The slots to sign up for are 30 minutes, but it is pretty brief, closer to 15 minutes. Kids try the recipe one at a time, so it is not long to wait their turn or long to stay focused.
Cost for Kroger Chef Junior and What’s Included
The cost is $7 per kid, parents do not need to register. Included is:
a reusable apron they can put their name on
a single-use paper chef hat (adjustable),
a patch that can be ironed or sewn on (one for each recipe),
their own take-home durable plastic kitchen tool,
pocket to keep recipes
and a recipe card of the day (good quality).
Age: Who is Kroger Chef Junior For?
There does not currently appear to be any age restrictions on the program. I took a four-year-old, and the instructor provided plenty of help. Older kids we saw also seemed to enjoy it. While you know your kid best, based on the setup, I’d say a three-year-old who is already helpful in the kitchen might be old enough and a ten or eleven-year-old with beginner interest in cooking might enjoy it, but mostly kindergarten to third graders are the target.
Also, there are enough spaces to book siblings or a playdate, but since kids work one at a time, I took one kid as a quick mommy and me experience (while I grabbed something from the store) as some special time where he got all my attention. If you’re looking for a way to do that, this is great.
The short one-on-one setup also works well for a beginner playdate for kindergartners or others into parallel play with neurodivergence, which is one reason we chose it.
Experience: What to Expect at Kroger Chef Junior
Right away, it was very easy to find the Chef Junior class. There were plenty of signs. It was located near an entrance as a display sort of off to the side near produce (and in the Two Notch Road location right by the Starbucks). A long-standing table, that would be wheelchair accessible, was decorated sort of like a picnic and held all the ingredients. The area had a lot of stimuli, so do be prepared for that.
My kid was thrilled with all the materials provided and could not wait to jump in and get started! The kids were allowed to forgo certain ingredients they didn’t like, and nothing particularly hazardous was used for this recipe, such as flames and sharp knives. It was very simple but a big confidence builder and fun.
The recipe was definitely something he could make again at home, even on his own, which is a great skill. It also encouraged him to try something new. Although his experiment was not his favorite result, we do look forward to trying others.
This program (and provided, take-home materials) sets kids up to want to do more at home, after the class.
Afterwards, as we did a little shopping, everyone in the store was very impressed with his chef’s ensemble, which made his day!
Main Takeaways from Kroger Chef Junior Experience:
One simple recipe a month; two Saturdays to choose from
$7 a kid, register online
One kid at a time, brief activity
Excellent materials
Very fun learning experience
Great for ages 4-8; first playdates; mommy/daddy and me outings
More Cheap Fun in Columbia
Looking for more free and cheap activities for kids in Columbia?
