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Writer's pictureJennifer Brecheisen

New South Carolina State Parks Are Slated to Open


The state of South Carolina recently announced the addition of four new state parks to its lineup, bringing the total number of parks to fifty-one. Deals with Dominion Energy and Duke Energy made the projects viable for the citizens of South Carolina. The new parks are listed below:

1) Dearborn State Park, Great Falls, South Carolina, is slated to open in 2025. 2) Ramsey Grove Plantation in Andrews, South Carolina, is anticipated to open in 2025. 3) Misty Lake in North Augusta, South Carolina, is anticipated to open in early 2024. 4) Pine Island on Lake Murray, South Carolina, will open in early 2024. Great Falls, South Carolina. Catawba River Recreational Rapids.Photo byBob RobinsonDearborn State Park on Dearborn Island, Great Falls, South Carolina, in the middle of the Catawba River. In conjunction with the new Catawba River Recreational Rapids, located upstream at Nitrolee, the park, donated by Duke Energy, will have a pedestrian bridge from downtown Great Falls.



Great Falls, South Carolina. Catawba River Recreational Rapids. Photo by Bob Robinson.

On the island, one will find the ruins of a bygone era. A federal garrison was established there, and Thomas Jefferson once proposed a southern West Point-style military academy in this area. This proposal died in Congress and never materialized. The park will feature a kayak shuttle service, whitewater viewing, and overnight camping.

Ramsey Grove Plantation State Park is on a seventy-five-mile stretch of the Black River in Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties. This stretch was designated a scenic river by the state in 2001, while the property itself had long been a hunting/fishing retreat for the employees of Dominion Energy. The property was established in 1731 by a land grant to William Hinkley from King George III. James Anderson purchased the property in 1786 and named the plantation after his wife’s family.

Misty Lake State Park, located near North Augusta, is another acquisition from Dominion Energy. The Park amenities include a seven-acre fishing pond and many hiking/biking trails throughout the pristine property once the project is complete.

Pine Island State Park will become the smallest in the state at 27 acres. Some amenities include a beach swimming area, swimming pool, boat slips, and outdoor shelter

Disclaimer: The Lantern does not profit from South Carolina tourism. The article is an informative read. References (Sources): South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, www.South-Carolina-Plantations.com.

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