Sesquicentennial State Park
A beautiful urban oasis with a lake, sandy trails, and family fun including a splash pad and boat rentals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Sesquicentennial State Park
Best Time
Pleasant temps, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful urban oasis with a lake, sandy trails, and family fun including a splash pad and boat rentals.
"A hidden gem offering a peaceful escape with activities for everyone, from hiking to paddle boating."
🚗 Park Entry Fee
There's a per-person fee. Consider it for well-maintained trails and amenities.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early mornings or late afternoons, especially in summer. Bring water!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
30-Acre Lake
Central Lake
Rent a paddleboat, kayak, or canoe for a fun-filled hour on the water. Perfect for families and a refreshing escape from the heat.
+1
Sandhills Hiking Trail
Various Trailheads
A beautiful 1.9-mile loop winding through shaded boardwalks and around the lake. Great for spotting wildlife and enjoying nature.
Splash Pad
Day Use Area
A fantastic way for kids to cool off on hot South Carolina days. A guaranteed hit for families with younger children.
Biking Trails
Designated Bike Loop
Enjoy a scenic ride through the park's diverse terrain. A great option for active visitors looking to explore more of the park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Park Entry Fees
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Entry Fee
There's a per-person fee. Consider it for well-maintained trails and amenities.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early mornings or late afternoons, especially in summer. Bring water!
🛶 Lake Fun
Rent paddleboats, kayaks, or canoes for an hour of fun on the lake.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the sand trails and hiking paths.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Entry Fee
There's a per-person fee. Consider it for well-maintained trails and amenities.
☀️ Beat the Heat
Visit early mornings or late afternoons, especially in summer. Bring water!
🛶 Lake Fun
Rent paddleboats, kayaks, or canoes for an hour of fun on the lake.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
Essential for exploring the sand trails and hiking paths.
👨👩👧👦 Family Friendly
Splash pad and playgrounds make it a hit with kids.
🚴♀️ Bike the Loop
Enjoy the dedicated biking loop for a scenic ride.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Sesquicentennial State Park for its beautiful natural setting within an urban environment, featuring lovely sand trails, a serene lake, and family-friendly amenities like a splash pad and playgrounds. While the campground could use some updates and vehicle speed in the campground is a concern for some, the park is generally seen as a great spot for outdoor recreation and relaxation.
"This is a beautiful park located in the middle of an urban setting. Beautiful sand trails, a large lake, a splash pad, and a small campground that needs some attention. The lower loop is best, but the upper loop has lots of tree roots and very steep sites. Would be easier to book if the park included site photos on the booking website. Overall, this is a great park!!!"
Darin Moretz
"We stopped for a picnic lunch and a quick walk on a today's road trip. While $6/per person is more than we are accustomed to seeing for State Parks you can tell the money is going to good use. We ate lunch right next to the lake. There are geese so watch your kiddos.
We then took the short nature walk to see the spillway/waterfall. It's beautiful here by the lake and under the trees.
There are two sets of playground equipment for kids and a bathroom close by.
Today the splash pad was closed but looks super fun for kids."
Jennifer Jarrell
"Sesquicentennial State Park in Columbia, SC was awesome!
We had a blast paddle boating on the serene lake, surrounded by stunning scenery. The playgrounds catered to kids of all ages, and the splash pad was a huge hit with the little ones.
The park also offers a free EV charger, a charming souvenir shop, a campground, and scenic trails for exploring.
Whether you're looking for family fun or a peaceful outdoor escape, this park has it all. Highly recommend!"
Lior Sela
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sesquicentennial State Park is conveniently located in Columbia, SC, just off busy Two Notch Road. It's easily accessible by car and offers ample parking. +1
Public transportation options to Sesquicentennial State Park are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for the most convenient access.
The park features a 30-acre lake, nature trails, and a biking loop. Maps are usually available at the park entrance or visitor center to help you plan your exploration.
Sesquicentennial State Park is situated within Columbia, SC, offering proximity to other city attractions, shopping, and dining.
Yes, the park is well-marked and situated in a prominent location in Columbia, making it straightforward to locate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a per-person entry fee to access the park. While some visitors note it's higher than other state parks, the funds contribute to park maintenance and amenities.
Information on discounts for seniors, military, or group rates is best obtained directly from the park or the South Carolina State Parks website.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official Sesquicentennial State Park website or contact them directly for the most current operating hours.
While general park entry doesn't typically require advance booking, it's a good idea to check if any special events or peak season require reservations, especially for camping.
The splash pad is generally included with park admission, making it a great value for families looking to cool off.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include hiking on sand trails, biking, paddle boating, kayaking, canoeing on the lake, picnicking, and enjoying the splash pad.
Yes, the park offers beautiful sand trails, including the popular 1.9-mile Sandhills Hiking Trail, perfect for nature walks and spotting wildlife.
Absolutely! The park has a large day-use area with multiple picnic shelters, making it ideal for family gatherings and outdoor meals.
Sesquicentennial State Park has a campground with 84 sites. While some reviews mention it needs attention, it offers a peaceful stay for those wanting to camp.
Yes, dogs are generally allowed in Sesquicentennial State Park, but they must be kept on a leash. Always check park regulations for specific details. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park itself does not have a restaurant. However, there is a small souvenir shop that may offer snacks. You'll find a variety of dining options in nearby Columbia.
Yes, visitors are welcome to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. There are numerous picnic areas available throughout the park.
There is a small souvenir shop that might sell some basic snacks and drinks. It's best to pack your own refreshments, especially for longer visits.
Being located in Columbia, SC, you'll find a wide range of restaurants, from fast food to local eateries, just a short drive from the park.
No, there isn't a dedicated cafe or coffee shop within Sesquicentennial State Park. Plan to bring your own coffee or visit a nearby cafe before or after your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The boardwalks on the Sandhills Trail and the shaded forest areas provide picturesque settings.
Yes, with its diverse trails, lake, and wooded areas, the park is excellent for capturing images of local flora and fauna, especially during the fall foliage.
Drone usage is typically restricted in state parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the park's specific regulations regarding drones.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour is particularly beautiful around the lake.
The combination of urban proximity and natural beauty offers unique shots. The splash pad can also provide fun, candid family photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Renting paddleboats or kayaks on the lake provides a memorable family adventure. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the many shelters. The park's accessibility and variety of activities ensure a fun-filled day for everyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Enjoying the hiking trails, biking loop, and splash pad are all included with admission, providing hours of free entertainment. 🏃♀️ Active Adventurers
The dedicated biking loop offers a scenic ride through the park's landscape. The lake also provides opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, adding a water-based workout to your adventure. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Lake and Water Activities
The lake is also a scenic spot for simply relaxing by the shore or enjoying a picnic with a view. Remember to check rental availability and hours, as they can vary.For those who enjoy fishing, the lake is known for bass fishing, providing an opportunity for anglers to cast a line.
While the park is in an urban setting, the lake provides a sense of tranquility and a chance to connect with nature. It's a popular spot for families and couples looking for a peaceful yet engaging outdoor activity. Important Note: While geese are present around the lake, it's always wise to supervise children closely and be mindful of your surroundings.
Hiking and Biking Trails for All Levels
These trails are characterized by their sandy terrain, which can be unique for hikers. For those seeking a more active experience, there's a dedicated biking loop that allows visitors to explore more of the park's natural beauty. Trail running is also a popular activity here, with some enthusiasts tackling longer distances within the park.
Tip: Visiting during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late afternoons, will make your hiking and biking experience much more enjoyable, especially during the hotter months.
Family Fun: Splash Pad and Playgrounds
Adjacent to the splash pad, you'll find playground equipment suitable for various age groups, ensuring that younger visitors have plenty of opportunities for active play. These amenities make the park an excellent choice for a day trip or a weekend getaway with the family. The combination of water play and traditional playground fun provides hours of entertainment.
Pro Tip: Pack swimsuits and towels for the kids if you plan to visit the splash pad, and consider bringing a picnic to make a full day of family fun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit