Did you know that July is National Park and Recreation Month? This year’s theme “Where Community Grows” — celebrates the vital role park and recreation professionals play in bringing people together, providing essential services, and fostering the growth of our communities. In recognition, we’re sharing 15 parks to visit in Lake Murray Country. Make sure to say “Hello and Thank you” to the staff while you’re on the trail, and share your adventure with us on social media by using #LakeMurrayCountry!
100 Alvina Hagood Circle | Blythewood, SC 29016
Enjoy a playground and six miles of walking trails that wind in and out of wooded areas and a 2,500-seat amphitheater.
100 National Park Road | Hopkins, SC 29061
Explore the largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States as you traverse 25 miles of hiking trails and 2.4 miles of boardwalk, there are so many ways to explore the Congaree Wilderness.
964 Axtell Drive | Cayce, SC 29033
This wooded park, located in the heart of Cayce, provides a relaxing getaway for adults and children.
109 Alexander Road | West Columbia, SC 29169
Soak up the natural beauty of the Congaree River on this waterside trail that is suitable for walking, jogging, bicycling, strollers, and wheelchairs.
5. Owen’s Field Park/Skate Park
1351 Jim Hamilton Boulevard | Columbia, SC 29205
Explore one of the most unique parks in the City of Columbia, from a BMX-style bike path to the skate park, and playground – you’re sure to find something for everyone in the family to do!
241 Gibson Road | Lexington, SC 29072
Gibson Pond Park is a beautiful wooded park on 15 acres with a fishing dock, picnic shelters & a BBQ, plus a loop trail & restrooms.
7. Lake Murray Dam Park Sites & Walkway
1797 North Lake Drive | Lexington, SC 29072
Take a walk on the Lake Murray Dam and enjoy spectacular views of Lake Murray and the downtown Columbia skyline on this 3.4-mile round-trip trek.
8. Sesquicentennial State Park
9564 Two Notch Road | Columbia, SC 29223
This 1,419-acre park, situated in the middle of the Sandhills region, features a beautiful 30-acre lake surrounded by trails and picnic areas.
5605 Bush River Road | Columbia, SC 29212
Located along the banks of the beautiful Saluda River, this 400-acre regional park offers an all-inclusive playground, hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails; a river observation deck; picnic shelters; boat ramp and canoe/kayak launch sites.
5500 Broad River Road | Columbia, SC 29212
Hike, bike, jog or walk 18 miles of trails in one the largest greenspaces within city limits east of the Mississippi River.
7507 Eastview Drive | Irmo, SC 29063
This lush park is home to the Prisma Health Amphitheater, two picnic shelters with BBQ grills, and walking trails along with playgrounds and restrooms.
1098 Old Lexington Highway | Chapin, SC 29036
Crooked Creek Park is a state-of-the-art recreation complex that encompasses a community center, 6 athletic fields and tennis courts, picnic tables, walking trails, playgrounds, and a 27-hold disc golf course.
3677 State Park Road | Prosperity, SC 29127
From recreational water activities to nature trails, top-notch fishing spots, and waterside camping – make sure to visit Dreher Island State Park.
Corner of Wilson Road & Walter Cousins Road | Newberry, SC 29108
This 276-acre park full of large pines and old-growth hardwoods contains 7.5 of tranquil hiking, and biking trails, and 6.1 miles of equestrian trails.
15. Saluda Park
416 S. Jefferson Street | Saluda, SC 29138
Grab the kids, pack a picnic, and head to Saluda Park to enjoy a paved walking trail, playground, and gazebo.
This story originally appeared on Lake Murray Country.
