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South Carolina
701

South Carolina State Parks

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South Carolina
Olde 96 Region
Hickory Knob State Park
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HICKORY KNOB STATE PARK
HICKORY KNOB STATE PARK
1591 Resort DR
McCormick, South Carolina   29835

Phone: 800-491-1764
Toll Free: 800-491-1764
Reservations: 864-391-2450
Email: park email button icon
Hickory Knob State Resort Park covers 1,091 acres alongside Strom Thurmond Lake in South Carolina's Savannah Lake region. As the only resort park in the state park system, Hickory Knob offers outstanding recreational opportunities which include a beautiful 18-hole championship golf course, trails for hiking, walking and biking; tennis courts, and facilities for archery and skeet shooting.

In addition to access to a 70,000-acre lake for fishing and boating, Hickory Knob features a motel, park cabins, a restaurant and meeting facilities.

Hickory Knob has become a favorite destination for outdoorsmen seeking unique vacations and also a popular retreat for business meetings.
Passes
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseHiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
 Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
 Water/Electric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
AccommodationsGolf Courseyes
Meeting Rooms
Meeting Rooms: For smaller groups the Mt. Carmel and McCormick meeting rooms each accommodate up to 60 people theatre-style and rent for $120-150/day.

To make a reservation for meeting facilities, contact the park directly.

Meeting Buildings: The Convention Center, which features a fireplace, kitchen and restrooms, will seat up to 100 people theatre-style and rents for $200-250/day.

The Long Cane Center, also called "the Barn," has a kitchen and restrooms, is very spacious and will seat up to 200 people theatre-style and rents for $280-350/day.

To make a reservation for meeting facilities, contact the park directly.
Swimming
1. Hickory Knob State Park offers a large, outdoor swimming pool for guests to enjoy during their stay.
2. The park's lake also provides an option for open water swimming and cooling off in summer months.
3. Swimming is only allowed when lifeguards are on duty at the designated beach area of Lake Thurmond.
4. Canoeing, kayaking or paddleboarding can be combined with swim breaks as part of your aquatic adventures here.
5. Non-swimmers can still enjoy waterside relaxation by sunbathing near the shores or lounging around the poolside deck chairs.

Fishing
Enjoy fishing in the 71,100-acre Strom Thurmond Reservoir. Species include largemouth bass, bream and catfish among others. A valid South Carolina fishing license is required for all anglers aged 16 or older. Boat ramps are available for easy water access.



Picnicking
Hickory Knob State Park offers picnic areas with tables and grills, surrounded by scenic views of the lake and forest.
Bicycling
There are several biking trails available, offering varying levels of difficulty. Be sure to wear a helmet for safety.

The 7-mile Turkey Ridge Loop is challenging with steep inclines and rocky terrain; not recommended for beginners.

For less experienced riders, the Lakeview Trail offers an easier ride along scenic lake views but still requires caution due to occasional roots and rocks on the path.

Riders should be aware that some paths may intersect with hiking routes so it's important to watch out for pedestrians at all times.

Bike rentals aren't provided within park boundaries - visitors must bring their own or rent from nearby facilities before arrival.

Remember: always follow trail signs closely as certain areas might have restrictions during specific seasons or weather conditions.
Birding
Birdwatchers can enjoy spotting various species like the Red-headed Woodpecker and Eastern Bluebird. Guided birding tours are also available.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
February 13
park review stars; one to five room rates are reasonable, meals are inexpensive, right on Stron Thurman Lake.
July 11 Camping by Jerry
park review stars; one to five We camped at campsite #20 ... very narrow site ... very steep on 3 sides .. would not recommend if you have children or a very big trailer .. my trailer is 23 feet .. and I had problems getting it into the site ... the lake was not accessible from my site ... if you play golf they have a lovely golf course
July 11 Wonderful Retreat by Emma and Tony Travelling UK
park review stars; one to five Having travelled West East across USA over 7 weeks staying in State Parks this was one of our favourite parks. We had a huge plot at the side of the lake where the views of the purple tinged sunsets over the lake were truly breathtaking. Very, very peaceful.......
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Area Campgrounds
Hester's Bottoms Family Campground
2926 Fort Charlotte Road
Mount Carmel, SC
864-391-2267
Lake Thurmond RV Park
678 Fishing Village Road
Plum Branch, SC
864-484-6365
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
General Directions: Two miles off US 378 on County Rd 7, seven miles west of McCormick at the SC/GA border.Driving Directions: Take Hwy. 378 W. from McCormick. Proceed approximately 6 mi. and turn ri. on Hwy 7. Proceed approximately 2 mi. and turn left at the park entrance. Continue for 3 mi to park lodge.

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South Carolina
701

South Carolina State Parks

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