Poinsett State Park is located in an outlying area of the Sandhills, yet it is still within the coastal plain.
This unique position on the edge of diverse terrain makes for habitat diversity that supports a wide range of floral life. Within the park's swamp, Sandhills, mountain bluffs and hardwood forests are plants that typically thrive in Upcountry habitats and species that are normally found in Lowcountry habitats.
The park's cabins, picnic shelters and other historic structures are excellent examples of the quality craftsmanship of the Civilian Conservation Corps, which built the park in the 1930s.
This 1,000-acre park also features a family campground, equestrian campground, fishing lake, trails and access to the Palmetto Trail system, which links to adjacent Manchester State Forest.
Five picnic shelters are available for family or other group gatherings. Each shelter may be reserved for $25-38/day.
If shelters are not reserved, guests may use shelters on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge.
To make a picnic shelter reservation, call toll-free 1-866-345-PARK.
Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
September 4Poinsett St Park (equestrian trails) by horsecentz
The equestrian trails have always been a favorite of ours. We were told diturbing news tonight that the trails are no longer to be used by horses. If not horses what??? The message was that the campground is closed and horses are not welcomed. Is this true or did the Ranger relaying this info make a mistake? Mistake I hope.
February 23A Family Favorite! by D. Anderson
My husband and I take our teenage daughters to this park every year. Living within 20 minutes of it, we visit it frequently either for day trips or for camping overnight. We love the trails, the fishing, and just exploring the park. The rangers are always helpful and informative and all of the facilities, campgrounds included, are always clean and adequate for a families needs.
November 19family visit
We had a family visit with grand daughters, great park with the exception of the bathrooms. No hot water and the bathrooms were not clean. It was the weekend, so we wondered if they forgot to clean them. Seems like there are people who live in the park year round.
September 3#1 pick by SCguide1
Out of 6 South Carolina State Parks I have visited this year (2009), Poinsett is the one I would recommend. Mid-week is a good bet if you are looking for a very quiet experience.
April 14Best kept secret in SC by Ranger Dave
Wonderful park. Magnificently maintained with a variety of well marked, well maintained hiking trails. Varied terrain, beautiful views. Probably the best kept state park in SC.
February 5Awesome Vacation by Cyle M
Poinsett has awesome views and trails. The cabins are fully furnished and have all the amenities of home except TV. I want to move to SC now since I visited this area.
August 21One of our favorite Carolina parks by lipie99
We live at the beach and when we go to Poinsett we feel like we are in the mountains. It is so peaceful and beautiful. The hiking trails are great. It is a park worth taking the time to go to.
General Directions: Off SC 261, 18 miles southwest of Sumter near Wedgefield
Driving Directions: From I-95: Take exit 119 (Manning exit) onto Hwy 261 towards Columbia until you see signs for Poinsett. From Columbia: Take Hwy 378/76 toward Sumter. After crossing over the Wateree River proceed to the top of the hill and turn rt. on Hwy. 261 toward Wedgefield. Continue on Hwy 261 until you see signs for Poinsett. Park will be on the rt. From I-20: Take exit 98 (Camden exit) onto Hwy 521 S. toward Sumter. Go 2 mi. on Hwy. 521 to Hwy. 261, bear rt. and follow the rd. for approximately 35 mi.
The equestrian trails have always been a favorite of ours. We were told diturbing news tonight that the trails are no longer to be used by horses. If not horses what??? The message was that the campground is closed and horses are not welcomed. Is this true or did the Ranger relaying this info make a mistake? Mistake I hope.
My husband and I take our teenage daughters to this park every year. Living within 20 minutes of it, we visit it frequently either for day trips or for camping overnight. We love the trails, the fishing, and just exploring the park. The rangers are always helpful and informative and all of the facilities, campgrounds included, are always clean and adequate for a families needs. 
We had a family visit with grand daughters, great park with the exception of the bathrooms. No hot water and the bathrooms were not clean. It was the weekend, so we wondered if they forgot to clean them. Seems like there are people who live in the park year round.