LVL 1 — First Steps
Hartsville, SC

Kalmia Gardens Nature Trail

1 to 2 miles
1-2 hours
30 acres of botanical gardens and nature trails along Black Creek in Hartsville. Mountain laurel and kalmia bloom in spring. Free admission. Managed by Coker University.

Kalmia Gardens is a 30-acre botanical garden and nature preserve along Black Creek in Hartsville, managed by Coker University. The gardens are named for the mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) that blooms spectacularly in spring along the creek banks. Free admission. Good for families and casual walkers.

Tips from the field

  • Spring bloom (April-May) is the peak visit time for mountain laurel.
  • Free admission. No reservations required.
  • Combine with a visit to Hartsville's downtown.
  • The creek-side paths are the most scenic section.

At a Glance

Where: Hartsville, SC
Surface: Paved and unpaved paths
Parking: Free parking at the gardens
Shade: Heavy canopy along creek
Restrooms: Restrooms at the gardens

Accessibility

  • Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
  • Free
  • Stroller-Friendly (Paved sections)

Nearby

  • Hartsville restaurants (5 min)
  • Lee SP (25 min)