Andrew Jackson State Park

One of the most pawpular state parks in South Carolina, the Andrew Jackson State Park is teeming with history, art, and community activities. It's a furrific family destination, so bring everyone along, including four-legged members! While your dog won't care much for the living history programs or interactive exhibits, they'll certainly appreciate stretching their legs on the park's two nature trails!

For a leisurely stroll in an undeveloped area of the park, check out the 1.1-mile Crawford Trail. This sloping, easy-to-follow dirt path will take you and Fido through a mixed forest of oak, pine, and cedar trees. This quiet route is pawfect for clearing your mind, and during your walk you may hear several bird species chirping and singing overhead. You and your pooch may also encounter wildlife such as deer, snakes, and rabbits. Note that this loop crosses Old Church Road twice; remember to look left and right before crossing!

If you're up for a more moderate trek, hit the Garden of the Waxhaws Trail. This mile-long path goes around the park's 18-acre lake, offering scenic views and fishing access. You and your pup will be guided across a grassy causeway over the dam and through a mixed pine and hardwood forest. Some sections of the trail are steep, so watch your step, especially if it has just rained. 

After your hike, duck under a picnic shelter to dig into a packed lunch. Other activities offered at the park include camping, boating, birdwatching, and geocaching. Doggos are not allowed inside buildings, so have someone from your pawty wait outside with Fido if you'd like to explore the museum and 18th-century replica schoolhouse. Of course, no visit to the Andrew Jackson State Park is complete without taking a photo with the Boy of the Waxhaws statue. Wherever you go in the park, always clean up after your pooch and keep them on a 6-foot leash. Bring clean-up bags, and water for your thirsty pup.

For a pawsome outing with your canine pal in the Midlands, head to the Andrew Jackson State Park!