Top parks to visit in Columbia, South Carolina

Explore the Natural Beauty of Columbia, SC's Top Parks

Published: 2023-04-28 10:12:37

For those who love the outdoors, South Carolina is delightfully full of wonderful parks to explore. From breathtaking coastlines and sparkling rivers to lush landscapes and majestic trees – there is a great selection of activities and locations to choose from. If you are hoping to spend some time outdoors in Columbia, South Carolina – you will be delighted by the variety of outdoor locations available in this beautiful city. Whether you’re searching for a scenic place for a picnic or an open space where your kids can safely run around– we’ve got you covered. Keep reading as we provide a detailed guide to the top parks to visit in Columbia, South Carolina. 

Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park

The Columbia Canal and Riverfront Park located in the Columbia Water Treatment Plant is a beautiful place to take a leisurely stroll along the canal in Columbia, South Carolina. This park offers scenic views of the river, lush vegetation, and plenty of activities such as biking trails, bird-watching points, and picnic areas. There are also picnic tables, benches, and a playground located near the Canal which makes this park ideal for family outings. 

Elmwood/Roy Lynch Park

Elmwood/Roy Lynch Park located in downtown Columbia, South Carolina is a great place for visitors to enjoy the outdoors. This park offers a variety of activities for all age groups, such as playgrounds, sports courts, and even a dog park. There are many amenities and activities for the little ones, including a water pad, swing sets, and zip lines.  

Polo Road Park

An excellent location for families with children, Polo Road Park features an array of activities suited for all ages. This park has plenty of open green space, a soccer complex, a large playground complete with swings and slides sports courts, and even an outdoor amphitheater. Visitors can also enjoy the walking trails and picnic spots located near the park or explore the trails that are scattered throughout the park. 

Sesquicentennial State Park

Sesquicentennial State Park is an excellent spot for those looking to explore nature. This park offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty of South Carolina and its wildlife. Visitors can wander through the walking trails, kayak down the lake, or observe some of the many native species living in this area. In addition, there are also picnic facilities, grills, and a swimming beach available at this park. The park also features nature trails, campsites, and a bicycle loop.  

Saluda Riverwalk

The Saluda Riverwalk is a top spot to take a leisurely walk while admiring the beauty of South Carolina’s nature. This park features miles of walking and biking trails, as well as picnic areas and benches. Visitors will also find plenty of wildlife to observe in this park, including turtles, birds, and even deer. The entire park runs along the river and its banks, providing a beautiful backdrop for visitors to enjoy while exploring.  

Granby Park

Granby Park is one of the top parks to visit in Columbia, South Carolina for those looking for a bit of outdoor adventure. This park features a range of activities such as cycling trails, horse trails fishing, disc golf, biking, and of course - hiking. The park also offers plenty of green space which makes it great for family picnics or simply enjoying the tranquility of nature.

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