NATURE
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GOODALE STATE PARK

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The Olde English District

The Olde English District’s landscapes—state parks, lakes, rivers, wetlands and quiet preserves—offer restorative outdoor experiences across Chester, Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, Union, and York counties. Visitors can hike, paddle calm waterways, watch birds, picnic by tranquil lakes and stroll scenic trails for peaceful nature discovery.

GREG NANCE

CATAWBA RIVERKEEPERS

Greg Nance, Mission Experience Manager for Catawba Riverkeeper, connects people to the Catawba through guided kayak tours, river cleanups, conservation programs and hands-on education. His work helps visitors appreciate waterway ecology and encourages stewardship. Click to read his full story and learn how to join a tour or volunteer.

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Find Your Era: Discover Our Olde Roots

Plan a route through seven counties that connects museums, battlefields, archives, and living-history experiences. This itinerary maps a clear path from Camden’s Revolutionary War Visitor Center and the open fields of Kings Mountain to Brattonsville’s restored structures and Rock Hill’s Freedom Walkway so you can visit key sites across multiple eras without missing the stories that connect them. View the full regional itinerary to tailor a two-day history trip.

Parks, Trails & Scenic Landscapes

Explore state parks, nature preserves, lakefront trails and scenic overlooks across the OED. Hike forested paths at Kings Mountain State Park, paddle or picnic at Cheraw State Park and discover geological features and quiet scenic vistas across our counties. Here, you’ll find parks, trailheads and outdoor routes to help plan your visit to the OED.

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Lakes, Rivers & Wetlands

Discover calm waterways for paddling, lakeside access, and wetland exploration across the Olde English District. Enjoy quiet canoe routes on the Catawba and Wateree Rivers, lake coves ideal for birdwatching, and marsh edges full of seasonal life. Start planning now for some fun on the water.

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Wildlife, Birding & Natural Habitats

Home to wetlands, pine forests, Sandhills corridors and wildflower meadows, the OED offers excellent birding and wildlife viewing year-round. Look for migratory birds, raptors, and secretive marsh species at preserved habitats. If wildlife and birding are your thing, we’ve got you covered.

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Gardens, Greenways & Outdoor Retreats

Find botanic gardens, greenways and peaceful outdoor retreats perfect for walking, cycling or just quiet reflection. Anne Springs Close Greenway offers miles of shaded trails and family-friendly activities, while local parks and riverfront greenways provide scenic routes for strolling and wildlife spotting. Start now to plan your restorative outdoor visit.

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