Growing up, I was always deeply involved in Boy Scouts. So naturally, camping, fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking consisted of my most of my weekends. After earning my Eagle Scout, being active in the great outdoors continued to be integral to me. A younger me loved going camping with some of my best friends and nothing has changed, I still love it all. Most of us have so much more free time during summer than during the school year, where we can afford spending an entire weekend with mother nature. For my third installment of my summer activities, I’m going to share with y’all my favorite spots in the great outdoors.

Cheraw State Park, Cheraw, SC
This state park is arguably my favorite place to go for a weekend away from the hustle and bustle of society. Just a little over two hours from Raleigh, Cheraw State Park is located in the small town of Cheraw, South Carolina on Lake Juniper. There are RV and primitive camping areas available for reservations. In my opinion, the highlight of this park is the cyprus swamp and the Osprey nests seen on the way to the otter dam. You can rent canoes, kayaks and paddleboards if you don’t have your own equipment. Fishing, bike trails, hiking trails, a playground, golf course, equestrian trails and camping sites, geocaching, and bird watching are other activities that Cheraw State Parks has to offer. I highly suggest this amazingly beautiful park.

Cane Creek Park, Waxhaw, NC
One of the more well known parks in Union County, NC, Cane Creek park is a great place to stay for a day or spend the weekend. With activities like mini putt, paddle boats, hiking trails, fishing, a massive beach front for swimming, cabins for extended weekends, canoes, pontoon boat rides, a boat slip, volley ball court, softball and soccer fields goes to show that Cane Creek has a lot to offer at reasonable prices.

Andrew Jackson State Park, Lancaster, SC
One of the smaller parks in South Carolina, Andrew Jackson State park is a lesser known area to spend a weekend away. This park caters to the more mild camper, in which I mean the hiking trails are shorter and less rigorous to traverse as compared to other parks. This park has it’s beauties about it though. You can fish for monster catfish or crappie, which are similar to bluegill and bass. This park is perfect for a quick trip to the outdoors or for someone who is getting their feet wet when it comes to camping.

Edisto Beach, Edisto Island, SC
Edisto Beach State park is on the coast of South Carolina. They have some of the most beautiful bike trails I have ever been on. You’ll ride through mostly level trails through live oaks, Spanish moss, and beautiful Palmetto trees where you can see white-tailed deer, Osprey, or alligators. You can also enjoy surf fishing or fishing in the salt marshes for flounder, whiting and other species. Being so close to the beach, Edisto Beach State Park is beautiful and relaxing, but don’t forget the bug spray or the insects will drive you mad.

Stone Mountain, Roaring Gap, NC
There are two Stone Mountains, one in Georgia, and one here in wonderful North Carolina. The one in GA is pretty much a theme park and sees a lot of traffic. I personally prefer the one in NC, since it is not as busy. Stone Mountain isn’t for the faint of heart though, if you feel like conquering this beast, you best be prepared. As a seasoned veteran of hiking and backpacking, I will make sure you have everything necessary for this mountain. First let me start with the scenery, you will encounter two waterfalls on the way to the top of the mountain which are incredibly beautiful. There is a bigger one and a smaller one, but be cautious, these waterfalls are roped off for a reason, do not for whatever reason go beyond the chained areas. Once you get to the top, the view is spectacular, like nothing else you’ve ever seen. Again, don’t go too far, as there is a point where you will slip and have nothing but a long drop below you.
As for the hike, there are a few items you will need. You will want the most comfortable hiking shoes you own, do not wear tennis shoes. Along with the shoes, you’ll want some wicking socks to prevent blisters and overheating your feet. Next, wear breathable clothing, and materials that dry quickly. Lastly, make sure you bring enough water, a single plastic water bottle won’t be enough, I assure you. I suggest at least a half gallon if not a full gallon of water for this hike. Yes, a gallon of water is heavy but a camel back will be your best friend for this adventure. Be smart, use your best judgement, the trail is long and at some points is very steep, so don’t be stupid and get yourself hurt.