Meet our cool imaginary character, Scruffy the Squirrel, who has a fuzzy tail larger than his dreams and a never-ending love for hiking. Scruff is a resident of a wonderful state called South Carolina or SC, as the locals fondly call it. SC is not just any other state; it’s a magical land where the timeless beauty of nature unfolds in every corner. From the mighty Blue Ridge Mountains to the sandy beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, South Carolina is a hiker's paradise, with inviting trails for young explorers like Scruffy and you. The kids of South Carolina are not just ordinary children; they are adventurous trailblazers, always ready to buckle their shoelaces for a riveting exploration. Like Scruffy, they are small but mighty, finding happiness in the chirping of birds, the rustle of leaves, and the whisper of the wind while they hike. With a backpack stuffed with essentials, trail maps, and a spirit of adventure, they set off on trails, making their way through the dense forests, crossing bubbly streams, and sometimes, even climbing the tall trees to say hello to their feathered friends. Spending more time in nature than in front of the television, these kids are the real-life Dora the Explorers. Scruffy and his gang of young hikers will tell you that no PlayStation game can ever beat the thrill of spotting a rare bird or finding an interestingly-shaped rock. And oh, the laughter that echoes through the woods when someone slips on a banana peel, it would make even the grumpiest owl chuckle! So, if you ever visit South Carolina, don’t forget to join Scruffy and his crew for a fun-filled hiking adventure!
Read morebest hiking programs in Mountain Rest, SC
Since 1915, Camp Greenville has been known for its exciting summer camp experience. From archery and swimming, to hiking and zip-lining, Camp Greenville offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure and traditional camp activities. Families also have the opportunity to join in on the fun with Camp Greenville’s family camps. These three-day sessions are offered throughout the year and are a great way to experience all that Camp Greenville has to offer without having to commit to the full summer camp program. For those looking for a more private experience, Camp Greenville also offers chapel rentals. Camp Greenville has been a beloved part of the Greenville community for over a century, and with four generations of families having called Camp Greenville home, it’s easy to see why. We invite you to explore all that Camp Greenville has to offer and make it part of your family tradition.
At Asbury Hills, we’ve been providing an opportunity for Christian birth, growth, and renewal since 1961. Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, our 2000-acre campsite provides an idyllic setting for campers of all ages. From second grade through high school, we offer age-specific programming designed to help campers grow spiritually and make lasting memories. We also host family camps and retreats for groups of 8 to 280 people. Asbury Hills is proud to be a part of SC Camps and Retreat Ministries and part of the South Carolina United Methodist Conference. Whether you’re looking for a summer camp experience or a retreat for your group, Asbury Hills is here to serve. Our 2000-acre site in the Blue Ridge Mountains provides an unparalleled backdrop for spiritual growth. We offer age-specific programming for campers, from second grade through high school, as well as family camps and retreats for groups of 8 to 280. As a ministry of the South Carolina United Methodist Conference, we’ve been providing Christian birth, growth, and renewal since 1961.
Send your kids off to the Upper Palmetto YMCA’s Camp Cherokee this summer! Located in Kings Mountain State Park, Camp Cherokee has been providing a safe and fun environment for boys and girls ages 6 to 15 since 1945. Kids get to enjoy a variety of traditional and adventure activities, like swimming, hiking, Rambo, and rock climbing, while meeting and making friends with kids from across the United States. Camp Cherokee also helps kids learn to be independent and make decisions on their own. Cabin life allows them to experience self-reliance, while also teaching them the importance of cooperation and learning to work with others. Don’t miss this opportunity to allow your child to reach their full potential and create lasting friendships!
The South Carolina Waterfowl Association established Camp Woodie in 1995 with a mission to provide hands-on, fun-filled outdoor education to the next generation of outdoorsmen and women. With expert staff and instructors, Camp Woodie offers a variety of activities for junior campers, ages 7-11, and senior campers, ages 12-16. Campers enjoy shotgun sports, rifle shooting, archery, fishing, canoeing, and swimming, and campers age 10 and older can even get their SCDNR Hunter’s Safety Certification at no extra charge. This is a great opportunity for kids to learn about the outdoors and have fun doing it!
That’s why the South Carolina Baptist Convention (SCBC) is proud to partner with churches to evangelize, disciple, and mentor the next generation through summer camp, retreat hosting, and missions education. Through these opportunities, campers have the chance to not only learn new skills and gain new knowledge, but also to grow spiritually and emotionally. The SCBC is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for campers to explore their faith. We are dedicated to creating an atmosphere that encourages campers to become strong followers of Christ. At Camp McCall, campers have the opportunity to participate in activities such as worship services, Bible study, and small group discussions. Through these activities, campers will be able to grow spiritually, learn more about the Bible, and build meaningful relationships with their peers and counselors. Camp McCall is a great opportunity for children and adolescents to gain invaluable life skills, make lasting friendships, and grow in their faith. Through the partnership with the SCBC, campers have the chance to explore their spirituality and learn how to serve God and serve others. We believe that camp is an integral part of a child's spiritual and emotional development, and we are proud to be a part of that journey.
In 1956, Nield Gordon and Everette Pigg, former roommates and basketball teammates at Furman University, had a vision to open their own boys’ camp. They found the perfect spot in the Blue Ridge foothills of Mountain Rest, SC: 60 acres of farm land surrounded by the Sumter National Forest. They purchased the property and named it Camp Chatuga, after the nearby Chattooga River and Chattooga Ridge. The farmhouse on the property became the camp dining hall, and, to this day, is the only original building still standing. The cornfield became the lake, and the old apple orchard became the tennis and basketball courts. The camp also pays homage to the Cherokee Indians with the name, which is adapted from the Creek word “Tsa-tu-ge”, meaning “we crossed here.” Camp Chatuga has been around for over 60 years, and continues to be a place of inspiration and learning for young boys. Through the vision of two former college roommates, Camp Chatuga remain a place of growth, fun, and friendship for children today.
Anne Springs Close Greenway was opened to the public in 1995, thanks to the vision of local conservationist Anne Springs Close. Spanning over 2,100 acres, the land is protected in perpetuity via a conservation easement with the Nation Ford Land Trust, ensuring the Steele Creek watershed is never developed beyond low-impact recreation. As an arm of Leroy Springs & Co., a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded in 1938, the Greenway is dedicated to providing fundamental access to recreation and education in the region of the historic Springs Cotton Mills. It is part of a family of brands that is committed to providing affordable outdoor recreation, education, and wellness opportunities for all.
Camp WaBak has been providing girls with unforgettable experiences since 1949. Camp WaBak provides an outdoor experience like no other. Nestled in the beautiful mountains near Jones Gap State Park, and just above Marietta, SC, Camp WaBak is the perfect place to for girls to explore the outdoors and make friends. Girls entering first through twelfth grade can choose from programs up to two weeks long, and will gain invaluable leadership skills, explore the outdoors, and create lifelong memories. Camp WaBak has been a favorite among generations of campers since its launch in 1949.
Here at Little Palms, we believe that life should be spent experiencing the world with your hands and in the sunshine! Our engaging play-based classes give children the opportunity to explore, play, learn, and get messy in a safe and stimulating environment. Our play-based classes are designed to help your child develop valuable life skills such as problem solving, communication, and creativity. We strive to provide activities where children can express their independence and creativity through a wide variety of (often messy) play. With us, your child can have a one-of-a-kind, hands-on learning experience in the great outdoors! At Little Palms, we are committed to creating an environment where children can gather, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Our engaging play-based classes provide an opportunity for children to gain lifelong skills while having fun in the sunshine. So come join us and let your child's adventure begin!
Survival skills training can be a lifesaver if you ever find yourself lost in the wilderness. Our courses provide essential knowledge and skills so that you can confidently embark on a backpacking or hiking trip to even the most remote areas. Our experienced instructors use a variety of methods, including lectures, demonstrations, and individual practice, to help you build the skills necessary to be self-sufficient. We understand that this is a serious undertaking, and not something to be taken lightly. That’s why our professional instructors provide all the information and insight you need to be prepared for any unexpected eventuality. Our survival classes are designed to give you the confidence and skills required to handle any situation that arises while out in the wilderness. Survival skills training is an invaluable tool in the right hands. Our courses are designed to help you master the art of self-reliance, providing you with the information and practical skills to confidently embark on any backpacking or hiking adventure. With the help of our experienced instructors, you can be confident that you are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle any wilderness challenge.
For over 15 years, kids of all ages have been able to take advantage of this amazing resource, with over 2,100 acres of preserved land to explore. Greenway Summer Camps offer a chance for kids to get off the couch and into nature. From biking and fishing to kayaking and hiking, kids can get a full summer of exploration and adventure. With Greenway’s massive 2,100 acres of land, there’s no limit to the possibilities. Kids can break away from their screens and explore the great outdoors with Greenway Summer Camps. With over 15 years of experience, Greenway offers a vast network of trails, rivers, and ponds to explore, giving kids a summer full of adventure and exploration.
It’s the perfect place for an outdoor adventure, and Camp Hannon’s Adventure Summer Camp is the perfect way to do it! Children of all ages and skill levels are invited to experience the thrill of zip lining, rappelling, and climbing on our professionally managed tower. Our experienced instructors will guide campers through a step-by-step process to ensure a safe and successful experience. Even those who are intimidated by heights or lack confidence in their abilities can be sure that they will be supported and encouraged at every step. At Camp Hannon’s Adventure Summer Camp, the possibilities are endless. With exciting challenges and supportive staff, campers will leave feeling inspired, empowered, and ready for anything!
Camp Leopold's mission is to create an ecologically literate citizenry by teaching students about the natural world and honing the skills needed to understand the environment. Camp staff work to instill a love, respect, and admiration for the land in each individual, so that they develop a personal land ethic. This will help ensure that future generations understand the importance of conservation and protecting the environment. Camp Leopold provides a unique and engaging outdoor classroom focused on wildlife, wetlands, and uplands ecology. Through the Camp's curriculum, students and teachers can learn the fundamentals of science, reading, and math while having fun and being in nature. By combining academics with engaging activities, Camp Leopold helps students develop a better understanding and appreciation of the environment.
Located in Bennettsville, SC, Sandy Ridge is owned and operated by Girl Scouts of Eastern South Carolina and sits on over 400 acres of beautiful sand hills. It is the perfect spot for Girl Scouts to take part in summer resident camp programs, troop camping opportunities, training, and outdoor events and overnights for girls and adult volunteers. Sandy Ridge includes sleeping units, swimming pool, two lakes, watercraft, an archery range, sports field, a clay pit and a climate-controlled dining hall. Animals are also part of the camp's program and donations of aquariums, animal cages, animal supplies, and animal food are always appreciated. Contact Chuck Iler, Outdoor Program Specialist/Camp Director to find out what is needed.
During the school year, the camp is a popular retreat spot for churches, schools, and other non-profits. Parents looking for a unique vacation destination for the whole family should consider St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center. Located on 314 acres of beach, maritime forest, and undisturbed salt marsh on Seabrook Island, St. Christopher is an hour south of Charleston, South Carolina. The camp has a long history of serving disadvantaged boys since 1938, and is now open year-round for retreats, conferences, and family vacations. The summer camp offers twelve sessions for children and adults of all ages. These include activities such as sailing, kayaking, fishing, and nature trails. The camp also offers spiritual retreats, special events, and activities that foster community and relationships. St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center is a perfect destination for families looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With a long history of serving disadvantaged boys, the camp’s commitment to faith-based activities and outdoor recreation will provide a memorable experience for the whole family.
At Camp 42, we believe that everyone should have the opportunity to learn and grow in a fun, safe environment. Our staff works diligently to create an atmosphere that encourages exploration and kindness. We offer activities such as sports, arts and crafts, games, swimming, nature walks, outdoor skills, and campfires that are designed to foster creativity, critical thinking, and an appreciation for the world around us. Our campers come away from the camp with a better understanding of themselves and a greater appreciation for the ideas of others.