Discover the Charming Southern Outdoors of Sumter, SC

Sumter, South Carolina is a charming and historic town surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. As you venture into the great outdoors, youll find endless opportunities to immerse yourself in nature while getting a sense of the hospitable and vibrant community that calls this place home.

One mustvisit spot is Swan Lake Iris Gardens (822 W Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150), a stunning botanical garden filled with colorful flowers, serene lakes, and graceful swans. Not only is it peaceful and green here, but its also historically significant: This National Historic Landmark was originally built as an iris garden by Hamilton Carr Bland back in the 1920s.

For more natural beauty with historical significance head over to Manchester State Forest (6740 Headquarters Rd., Wedgefield, SC 29168). Here you can hike or bike through miles of woodland trails rich in wildlife including deer and wild turkeys. Alongside its natural wonders like cypress tupelo swamps unique to this part of South Carolina stands history like early Native American settlements dating back thousands of years.

If waterbased activities are more your thing then check out Poinsett State Park (6660 Poinsett Park Rd., Wedgefield, SC 29168) for fishing kayak canoeing on one of their three gorgeous ponds or hiking along Lee County side toward High Hill Creek waterfall. Its picturesque surroundings give off charming southern vibes while outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate diverse ecology from plants scrubs sandhills that offer homes from venomous copperheads cottonmouths timber rattlesnakes southern fox squirrels beavers otters woodpeckers kingfishers alligators black bears coyotes bobcats red foxes whitetailed deer rabbits raccoons opossums armadillos flying squirrels weasels minks among other species living there.

Last but not least, the quaint town center is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with green spaces like Memorial Park (21 E Liberty St., Sumter, SC 29150) and Dillon Park (200 S Magnolia St., Sumter, SC 29150), lovely antique shops, and charming cafes. Make sure you look out for one of the many vibrant events hosted by local organizations throughout the year.

Sumters outdoor spaces reflect its Southern hospitality and charm while simultaneously offering incredible natural wonders. By visiting these spots filled with wildlife in their native habitats or simply enjoying nature in serene gardens or hiking trails steeped in history visitors can create lasting memories here that will stay with them long after they leave this vibrant little southern gem of a town.

Websites:

https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/discoverflowerpoweratswanlakeirisgardens

https://southcarolinaparks.com/poinsettstatepark

Twitter:

@vissumtersc Visit Sumter

@SC_State_Parks South Carolina State Parks