The Sumter National Forest in South Carolina offers many opportunities for recreational activities. Enoree District covers a large area in the central part of the state that includes sections of Newberry, Laurens, Union, Chester, and Fairfield counties. Activities that visitors can enjoy include hiking, boating, fishing, hunting, picnicking, and camping.
A 36-mile section of South Carolina’s Palmetto Trail passes through the Enoree District. The Palmetto Trail will eventually stretch from the mountains in the northern part of the state to the coast. The trail crosses the Enoree River and several streams. It also passes picturesque lakes Sedalia, Macedonia, and Johns Creek, which are excellent fishing spots. Another popular trail is the Jew’s Harp Spring Hiking Trail in Union County. The spring once provided water for a 19th century plantation, Orange Hall, now in ruins. The trailhead is at Collins Creek Seasonal Camp. The spring water is not safe to drink.
Buncombe Horse Trail is located in Newberry County. This 31-mile trail winds through rolling hills and valleys, passing points of interest like plantation sites and ancient burial grounds. Hikers and mountain bikers are also welcome on the trail, which is open year-round. The area offers an excellent opportunity to see wildlife. There is a usage fee of $3 per day.
The Enoree Forest District offers a challenging OHV trail for ATVs and dirt bikes. The maximum width of the vehicle is 50 inches. There are 23 miles of trail, but interconnecting loop sections allow riders to choose the length of their ride. The OHV trail is open from the last Thursday of March of each year until January 1 of the following year. The trail is accessed near the town of Whitmire. There is a daily use fee of $5 per OHV.
There are several popular fishing areas in the Sumter National Forest. The National Forest Service maintains four boat ramps on the Broad River. The Enoree River and the Tyger River are suitable for canoes and flat-bottomed boats. Sedalia Lake, Johns Creek Lake, and Pittman Lake are good places to fish. Molly’s Rock Picnic Area also has a small pond stocked with fish. There is a fishing pier, as well as a nature trail and restrooms.
Hunting is permitted in the national forest in season. The abundant wildlife makes this one of the best hunting areas in the state. Target shooting is available at the Fair Forest Rifle Range, Indian Creek Rifle Range, and Philson Crossroads Rifle Range. Collins Creek, Rocky Branch and Herbert Seasonal Campgrounds are open during hunting season. Sedalia Campground, Brick House Campground, and Woods Ferry Recreation Area are open for camping year-round.
The temperate climate in central South Carolina allows for year-round outdoor recreation. Visitors to the Enoree District of the Sumter National Forest have many activities to choose from.