The Dogwood Interpretive Trail in Barnwell State Park offers a clearly defined loop along the water: the easy, 1.5-mile trail circles the southernmost of two lakes. If you prefer to adjust your hike along the way, the Fernhill Trail offers a different route layout. This gives you a choice of trail experiences without specifying a particular hike length.
Choosing Trails and Hiking Routes
The Fernhill Trail is laid out as a figure-eight loop. Maps along the trail let you choose between a shorter and a longer hike. In addition to hiking, the trail is suitable for cycling and birdwatching. Its layout and the choice of routes make it especially appealing if you want to tailor your outing to the time available; no specific duration is implied.
If you are driving from the north on I-95, you can take Exit 57 and follow Highway 64 to Barnwell. Barnwell State Park is 7 miles northeast of Barnwell. Check road conditions before setting out.
Several buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s and still standing there are also part of the character of Barnwell State Park. Nature and architectural history thus sit side by side: the trails let you explore the landscape, while the buildings recall the work of the CCC.
Architectural History and Cultural Heritage
In Barnwell itself, the architecture tells the story of different periods and uses. Saint Andrew’s Chapel was built in 1831 and is considered the oldest surviving original Catholic church in South Carolina. A former church building in Barnwell was moved to Academy Street and is now used as the Circle Theatre, a performing arts center. The two sites represent different chapters in the local architectural history.
A freestanding vertical sundial stands in front of the Barnwell County courthouse. Joseph D. Allen donated it to Barnwell in 1858. In Blackville, the railroad depot was built around 1910; in 1985, it was moved to Court House Square and renovated. Construction of the Shamrock Hotel in Blackville was also completed around 1912. Together, these structures offer different ways to explore the history of these places, from a public timepiece to a relocated railroad building.
The Barnwell County Museum features numerous exhibits and objects about the history and cultural heritage of the county and surrounding community. In Blackville, the James H. Hammond Museum was dedicated in 1970. Those interested in local history can therefore find both themed collections and specific buildings and places of remembrance as different points of connection.
Agriculture and Parks in Barnwell County
Agriculture is also part of the region’s documented history. For more than 30 years, Williston shipped asparagus to all parts of the country during two spring months each year. Historically, Williston at times shipped more asparagus than any other place in the world. The Williston Museum also displays tools for making hats that belonged to Joe Kelly Sr. The Agricultural Heritage Hands-On Learning Center offers students a learning program about the past and future of agriculture.
In Barnwell, Fuller Park offers several options for different interests: it has a nine-hole disc golf course, a splash pad, a loop trail and wetlands. Seasonal facilities may vary. The Barnwell Farmers Market is also located in Fuller Park. If you plan to visit, check the market dates and current operating status.
Kilkenny Park has lake access for fishing, as well as picnic tables and grills. The park offerings described here differ: Fuller Park brings together activities, a loop trail and wetlands, while Kilkenny Park is associated with fishing and picnic facilities.
God’s Acre Healing Springs is in Barnwell County, just outside Blackville, and includes artesian springs. Along with the trails, parks and historic sites, it makes for a trip where you can combine outdoor and cultural interests according to your own priorities.
Explore more destinations: Barnwell, Spartanburg, Anderson, Clarendon, Beaufort County, Berkeley, Lexington, Georgetown.
For the broader travel overview: South Carolina.
