In Laurens County, history can be discovered in a variety of places: at a Revolutionary War battlefield, in historic gardens and at churches that have long been part of the region’s cultural heritage. Elsewhere, trails lead to the water, art and recreational activities. You can shape your stay around the topics that interest you most.
History in Place
The Battle of Musgrove Mill State Historic Site preserves the location of the Battle of Musgrove’s Mill, fought on August 19, 1780, during the American Revolutionary War. The “Sites of Interest” map offers an overview of other places in Laurens County associated with the war, guiding visitors to battlefields, forts and meeting houses.
Rosemont Plantation tells a different story. From 1769, the property was the Cunningham family’s ancestral home in Laurens County. Rosemont was also the county’s first plank house and was known for its extensive gardens. The grounds include a paved parking lot and historical information signs. From there, a short walking path leads to the former residence and the gardens. As visitor facilities may change, it’s a good idea to check the latest visitor information in advance.
Fort Lindley, near Rabon Creek, is also associated with the Revolutionary War: it was the site of the Cherokee’s first major offensive in the war. Fort Lindley is on private property; a historical information sign is located at 1700 Fort Lindley Road. Duncan Creek Presbyterian Church is considered the oldest Presbyterian church in Laurens County.
The Laurens County Museum welcomes groups and offers customized tours. Those interested in art can visit the Elizabeth Stone Harper Gallery at Presbyterian College in Clinton. It serves as both a teaching gallery and a public art gallery, with exhibitions and talks by artists from the region and around the world. As programs and access may change, it’s worth checking the current exhibitions and schedule in advance.
On Foot, by Bike and on the Water
For a hike by the water, the Little River Trail is a good option: the scenic trail is one mile long and runs along the Little River and Reedy Fork Creek. The Presbyterian College Multi-Use Trail offers an option of about the same length for a different activity: visitors can cycle the roughly one-mile route on the Presbyterian College campus in Clinton. The two trails are easy to distinguish by activity—one is a riverside hiking trail, the other a campus cycling route.
There are also hiking trails at the Joe R. Adair Outdoor Education Center. At Joanna Park, a paved walking path winds through the park. Laurens County Park has a different focus: it features an 18-hole disc golf course designed by James LeBaube. And those looking for off-road trails will find routes of varying difficulty at Gulches ORV Park—from easy and moderate to difficult and extremely challenging. Trail descriptions may change; check the latest information if you’re planning a visit to this park.
The waterfront access points described here differ considerably. The roughly four-mile Reedy River route runs from the launch at Charlie Lollis Park to the takeout at Karl Dixon Park. At Lake Rabon, canoe and kayak access is at Lake Rabon Park. The Reedy River route therefore names two park locations as its start and finish, while access at Lake Rabon is at a single park. Check local conditions before heading out for a paddle.
On the north shore of Lake Greenwood, the Fellowship Camp & Conference Center offers nearly a mile of shoreline and several miles of trails. Recreational amenities also include canoes, kayaks, playing fields, an archery range and swimming. There’s a range of options, from water activities to trails and sports on land.
Recreation and Seasonal Finds
Local events and activities can also shape your visit. The Capitol Theatre hosts free movie nights on the second and fourth Friday of each month. The public can play basketball for free every week at The Ridge at Laurens. Check the dates and the current weekly schedule before you arrive.
In Clinton, Josh and Ella Savage Park has a playground. LushAcres Farm & Market offers seasonal U-pick activities. It also sells seasonal fruit and vegetables, locally made products and baked goods. If you’re planning a visit for the harvest offerings, it’s worth checking what’s available for the season. This way, you can combine historical discoveries, trails and recreational activities with a look at what’s currently being offered at the market.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Laurens, Clinton, Chesterfield County, Spartanburg, Dillon County, Horry, Abbeville County, Anderson.
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