12 Top Places to Visit in South Carolina in Fall
Fall is one of the best seasons to be outdoors as trees and plants change their colors, creating irresistible sights. South Carolina offers some of the world's best destinations to experience this beauty in Fall. From scenic towns and mountains to state parks, crystal clear lakes, waterfalls, and gardens, there's so much beauty to see here during this season. Additionally, Fall in South Carolina also means fewer crowds and soothing weather which makes it arguably the best time to visit the state. While there are so many places to enjoy an unforgettable fall vacation in South Carolina, these are the best places to visit.
Congaree National Park
Congaree National Park on the outskirts of Columbia, the capital city, is a great place to unite with nature. The park features massive forested areas and floodplains, with tall flourishing trees that bloom in the fall. These trees form some of the world's tallest temperate deciduous forest canopies, and a walk through them in the fall is sensational. While hiking and taking long walks on the boardwalk are leisure activities to soak in the fall beauty of this park, the Congaree River flows through it as well which means kayaking and canoeing are included in the list of activities. Grab a camera and paddle through the Cedar Creek Canoe Trail to explore the park from the water and see the huge trees up close.
Beaufort
Beaufort is a quaint coastal city in South Carolina, beaming with Lowcountry vibes and fascinating natural beauty, especially in fall. Whether one is seeking a memorable fall getaway or looking to explore South Carolina's hidden gems in a more relaxing and beautiful season, Beaufort is the perfect place to go. During fall, the oak-lined streets of this town become a spectacle as they glow in many colors. Visitors can stroll on Beaufort's streets to admire this gorgeous natural scenery and impressive architecture lined up behind the elegant trees and stop by one of its restaurants to enjoy local food. Additionally, one can step into the forests of the nearby Hunting Island State Park to absorb some more foliage scenery and then end the day with views of sunset at Beaufort River.
Fort Mills
Near the vibrant city of Charlotte is the quaint town of Fort Mills, blessed with natural and architectural beauty. The city boasts scenic lakes, rivers, and forests that draw the attention of tourists seeking an escape from the bustle in Charlotte. In the fall, this town radiates pristine beauty at every turn, setting the stage for nature lovers and vacation seekers to enjoy the outdoors. Explore the town's beauty by hiking one of its many trails. Alternatively, head to Lake Wylie and take a boat tour to witness the colorful foliage reflecting on the water.
Campbell Covered Bridge
South Carolina has about 20 covered bridges, and the Campbell Covered Bridge is the only one still standing. This lone-survivor reputation makes the bridge unique and an outstanding place to visit in the state. However, that's not the only remarkable thing about this kind of bridge that has since gone extinct. The bridge is flanked by tall trees and shrubs, glowing in red, orange, yellow, and gold hues during the fall. The covered structure, which spans across the creek, is also adorned in red, complementing the colors of the foliage around it. It becomes a place of captivating natural beauty during autumn as waters flow beneath and the trees and shrubs shine in pristine glory.
Lake Jocasse
Lake Jocasse is one of South Carolina's finest destinations in the fall. The lake is charming, with its crystal-clear waters complemented by the surrounding vegetation. Although it is beautiful all year round, the lake's magical appearance in the fall is arguably the most beautiful. During this season, the trees and surrounding vegetation glow in gold, orange, and red shades, creating a stunning picture-perfect scene. Uncover more of the lake's beauty by taking a boat tour, kayaking, or paddling. For the best panoramic views of the lake, its colorful foliage, and the mountains framing it, drive for 10 miles to Jumping Off Rock overlook and be stunned.
Clemson
Clemson is a beautiful city in South Carolina that occupies two counties - Anderson and Pickens. It is renowned for hosting the famous Clemson University and also for its impressive natural beauty which reaches its peak in fall. While the streets offer cool fall scenery, the best fall sights in Clemson can be witnessed in the many enchanting lakes and lush forests that surround it. Don’t miss out on the South Carolina Botanical Garden where fall colors combine with sculptures, small streams, and the diverse colors of flowers to create unforgettable scenery. Alternatively, head to the Abernathy Waterfront Park to witness the magical beauty of foliage reflected in the waters.
Myrtle Beach
Myrtle Beach is a top tourist destination in South Carolina, attracting over 20 million visitors yearly. The resort town boasts a scenic beach known as the Grand Strand, which features blue waters and crisp white sand. During fall, this beach becomes less crowded, and with the comfortable weather, it becomes one of the best places to enjoy a fall vacation in South Carolina. In addition, visitors can explore the Brookgreen Garden, a National History Landmark that radiates exceptional foliage beauty in the fall. Also, the garden features a zoo and an aquarium for guided tours. The Myrtle Beach boardwalk is another exciting place to roam in the fall in this town as it has many attractions like the sky wheel, a museum, a 5D moving theatre, and many stores.
Falling Waters Scenic Byway
The Falling Waters Scenic Byway is a 13-mile less-traveled road that packs more beauty than usual, especially during fall. The byway begins at Walhalla in Oconee Country and passes through Isaaqueena Falls, Stumphouse Mountain Tunnel, and Oconee State Park. All through the path, an endless array of natural beauty pervades. In fall, it gets better as the trees and low-lying vegetation change colors into more charming hues. Visitors can drive through this 13-mile wallpaper-worthy destination to absorb its natural beauty, compliments of the fall season. In addition, the view of the Blue Mountain Escarpment from an overlook on the byway is an experience worth having.
Isaaqueena Falls
Isaaqueena Falls is one of the most beautiful places in South Carolina to see in the fall. Cascading from 100 feet over a rock near Walhalla in the Sumter National Forest, the waterfall is surrounded by scenic landscapes and vegetation that blossom colorfully in autumn. Hike to the peak of the falls via a short and easy trail to behold its splendid views as it flows down. Next, follow the rocky trail down to its base, where the water forms a small pool, and enjoy a wholesome experience of this stunning natural beauty. While hiking, keep in mind the legend associated with the falls which claims a Native American woman named Issaqueena and her lover jumped from the top and either died together or hid out of sight of the hostile tribesmen.
Greenville
Greenville is a captivating city set on the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains between North Carolina and Atlanta. The city boasts a thriving and busy downtown yet it has a natural appeal and incredible beauty in fall. Enjoy the city's natural charm by visiting Falls Park on the Reedy, a foremost tourist attraction in Greenville. The park features a scenic suspension bridge surrounded by breathtaking foliage in the fall and it also has a postcard-perfect waterfall that radiates beautifully at night. Explore this bridge and the 32-acre park before heading downtown for shopping and more sightseeing experiences.
Caesar's Head State Park
The Caesar's Head State Park in Greenville County revolves around a massive rock formation at 3,208 ft above sea level. During the fall, the park is a place of matchless beauty as its rock formations are carpeted with many trees and shrubs that emit charming colors. There’s an overlook in the park which is an ideal place to soak in the scenery of foliage. In addition to the scenery, visitors can hike around the mountains, fish in the Middle Saluda River, and host picnics in one of the park’s picnic areas. Additionally, the park features five waterfalls, and the Raven Cliff Falls, crossed by a suspension bridge, is particularly gorgeous and a must-visit.
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park is centered around the mountain of the same name but also features Pinnacle Mountain, the tallest in the state. There's so much beauty to see here as the park also features gorgeous lakes, hiking trails, small waterfalls, and creeks. During fall, the park becomes even more beautiful as all of its natural endowments are adorned with foliage bloom. For spell-binding views of the scenery and its bloom, hike the tabletop mountain trail that ends at a scenic overlook, with views of the park's reservoir. Alternatively, hike the Carrick Creek Nature trail to behold gorgeous waterfalls and cascades, including the glowing shrubs on the pathway.
In Conclusion
Fall is an amazing time to visit South Carolina not just because of the scenery but also the laid back atmosphere and cool weather. While there are many destinations to visit in the state, these are at the top of the list when it comes to where to get the best fall experience. Although the fall scenery is the main draw at these destinations, they also offer opportunities for exciting adventures.
