South Carolina’s Olde English District is not only famous for its early English settlers and Revolutionary War history, it is also a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With nine state parks and historic sites, including a spot where you can see the Rocky Shoals Spider Lily, the rarest species of spider lily, the area is a paddling paradise.
The Olde English District is just an hour or two (depending on which park you visit) from Charlotte, North Carolina, which was recently named one of the top cities in the US for outdoor enthusiasts.
Cheraw State Park
Kayaking at Cheraw State Park in South Carolina
My husband and I traveled from Charlotte, North Carolina, an hour and 45 minutes south to South Carolina. At our first stop, Cheraw State Park, we stayed in one of nine restored rustic cabins originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the Great Depression.
Robert Mahoney, the park manager, helped us launch our rented kayaks for an early morning paddle on Lake Juniper. We explained that this was our first time visiting South Carolina. With a big smile, Mahoney said this part of South Carolina is a “great place for families to relax, reflect and enjoy Southern hospitality.”
When my husband and I went out on the lake to paddle, the water was like glass. I agreed with Mahoney’s description of the area: the lake was quiet, peaceful, incredibly lush and green. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the work week for a weekend outdoor adventure.
After kayaking, we hiked the Boardwalk Trail to the campground overlooking the lake. Then we drove into Cheraw for lunch, enjoying sweet tea at the River’s Edge and getting praline pecan ice cream at the Caffeinated Cow. While we were in town, we heard that famous jazz musician Dizzy Gillespie was from Cheraw, so we drove to the tribute at Homesite Park.
Landsford Canal State Park
Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies blooming in Landsford Canal State Park
At nearby Landsford Canal State Park, people come from all over to see the lilies blooming in the Catawba River – it’s a bucket list activity for many in the spring, who paddle a mile to see the spectacular Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies.
The park has the largest crop of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies in the world. The best time of year to see the plants blooming is from May to mid-June; they bloom straight from the water. Also keep an eye out for nesting young eagles in the spring.
If you’re craving fried seafood after paddling, head to the Catawba Fish Camp, about 15 minutes from the park. The restaurant offers bottomless meals, hushpuppies and coleslaw. The best part is the candy bar for dessert; it looks like a salad bar, except it’s a blue wooden boat full of chocolates and colorful gummies.
Before planning a trip to Landsford Canal State Park, contact the park office. According to their website, a recent storm damaged the area, including kayak and canoe access points. Hopefully they will be cleared in time for spring paddling.
Goodale State Park
Kayaking in Goodale State Park in South Carolina
Finally, cap off a trip to this region at Goodale State Park near Camden.
During a phone interview, Jenny Parrish, executive director of the Olde English District Tourism Commission, told me, “Paddling in Goodale State Park is one of South Carolina’s best-kept secrets.”
Rowers can navigate a five-kilometre canoe path through Cypriot trees and a crystal-clear spring-fed lake. Parrish says, “As you paddle the canoe and kayak trail here, you can see six feet deep – the water is crystal clear.”
