Expedition SC List

The Old 96 District: Lakes, Forest & Frontier History

The Old 96 District covers the western Midlands from Greenwood to Abbeville to McCormick, and it is the part of South Carolina that time has been kindest to. No interstate running through it. No major tourist draw pulling crowds. Just lakes, forest, small towns, and a handful of genuinely interesting places to explore.

Adventures in the Old 96 District

Lake Greenwood State Park

Level 1-2

11,400 acres of water for fishing, paddling, and lakeside camping. The fishing is good and the pressure is low.

Long Cane Trail, Sumter National Forest

Level 3

23 miles of hiking through rolling Piedmont forest with wildflowers, creek crossings, and near-total solitude.

Full guide →

Ninety Six National Historic Site

Level 1

The remains of a Revolutionary War frontier fort and settlement. The Star Fort earthworks and walking trails through the site are a quiet, powerful piece of American history.

Hickory Knob State Resort Park

Level 1

Lodge, golf course, and lake access on Strom Thurmond Lake. The most full-service state park in this region.

Abbeville's downtown square

Level 1

Charm, restaurants, and the Abbeville Opera House. A good base for exploring the district.