Expedition South Carolina

Activity: History

Every trail, paddle, campground and scenic drive in the Palmetto State, with accessibility information on every single one.

LVL 1 — First Steps

Fort Sumter Visit Guide

0.5 miles on fort grounds
3-4 hours including ferry
The place where the Civil War began. Fort Sumter sits in the middle of Charleston Harbor and is accessible only by ferry. The ferry ride itself is one of the best ways to see Charleston from the water.
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller-Friendly
  • Service Animal Friendly
LVL 1 — First Steps

Cowpens National Battlefield

1.3 miles (battlefield trail)
1-2 hours
On January 17, 1781, Daniel Morgan’s Continental Army defeated a superior British force here in 45 minutes. The battle was a turning point in the American Revolution. The 1.3-mile battlefield trail walks you through the engagement with interpretive markers at every key position.
  • Wheelchair Accessible
  • Stroller-Friendly
  • Dog-Friendly
  • Free Admission
LVL 2 — Easy Going

Kings Mountain National Military Park

1.5 miles (battlefield loop)
1-2 hours
October 7, 1780. Patriot militiamen surrounded and destroyed a Loyalist force on this forested ridge in 65 minutes. Thomas Jefferson called it the turning point of the American Revolution. The 1.5-mile loop trail climbs the ridge and follows the battle line.
  • Dog-Friendly
  • Free Admission
LVL 1 — First Steps

Old Sheldon Church Ruins

Short walk around ruins
30-60 minutes
The most haunting ruins in South Carolina. A Greek Revival church burned by the British in 1779 and again by Sherman in 1865. Massive tabby columns standing in a field of Spanish moss. Free to visit.
  • Free
  • Dog-Friendly (Leashed)
  • Parking at Site