Table Rock State Park South Carolina
A hiker's paradise in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering challenging trails, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal hiking weather, fewer crowds
Table Rock State Park South Carolina
Best Time
Ideal hiking weather, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A hiker's paradise in the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering challenging trails, serene lakes, and stunning waterfalls.
"Conquer South Carolina's hardest hike for breathtaking views, or enjoy family-friendly trails and lakeside fun."
🎒 Pack for the Hike
Bring plenty of water (2L+ recommended), wear sturdy shoes, and pack sunscreen. :athleticshoe: :waterwave:
🚗 Library Pass Perk
Check with your local Pickens County Library for a free pass to cover park entry fees! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Table Rock Trail Summit
Table Rock Mountain
Conquer South Carolina's toughest hike for breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountain views. A true test of endurance!

Carrick Creek Waterfalls
Near Nature Center
Enjoy a more moderate hike to cascading waterfalls, perfect for cooling off and family fun.

Pinnacle Lake
Park Center
A serene lake offering swimming, fishing, and a peaceful 1.9-mile Lakeside Trail for easy strolls.

Gaines Lodge
Park Entrance Area
A beautiful venue often used for events, offering scenic views and a picturesque setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Prepare for the Table Rock Trail Challenge
Check Park Status & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎒 Pack for the Hike
Bring plenty of water (2L+ recommended), wear sturdy shoes, and pack sunscreen.
:athleticshoe: :waterwave:🚗 Library Pass Perk
Check with your local Pickens County Library for a free pass to cover park entry fees!
:ticket:🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails, including Table Rock Trail, are dog-friendly. Keep your pup leashed!
:dog:⏰ Start Early
Beat the heat and crowds, especially for the strenuous Table Rock Trail.
:clock:Tips
from all over the internet
🎒 Pack for the Hike
Bring plenty of water (2L+ recommended), wear sturdy shoes, and pack sunscreen.
:athleticshoe: :waterwave:🚗 Library Pass Perk
Check with your local Pickens County Library for a free pass to cover park entry fees!
:ticket:🐶 Dog-Friendly Trails
Many trails, including Table Rock Trail, are dog-friendly. Keep your pup leashed!
:dog:⏰ Start Early
Beat the heat and crowds, especially for the strenuous Table Rock Trail.
:clock:🐍 Be Snake Aware
Especially after fires, be mindful of wildlife, including snakes, on trails.
:snake:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Table Rock State Park's stunning natural beauty, especially the challenging Table Rock Trail and its rewarding summit views. The park offers a good mix of strenuous hikes and more accessible trails with waterfalls and lakes, making it suitable for various interests. Some mention recent wildfire impacts and ongoing construction, but the overall experience remains highly recommended for day trips and camping.
"Oh the natural wonders…under construction but as beautiful as ever. Our family went for a short hike, a little waterfall plunge, picnic lunch followed by game time. The weather was beautiful today and the nature center attendant was very nice. The entire deck around the nature center is gone and the trail leading up to the waterfall is a detoured path behind the nature center. The entire area was still very natural and beautiful. They had the construction zone taped off with yellow caution tape. The swimming area was like a deserted island. No one there. That was kind of strange but as we played cards an entire group of children came in with chaperones. The whole trip brought back so many memories of trips made when our children were little. I definitely recommend Table Rock State Park for a day trip or family camping! One other little perk is the free pass provided by our Pickens County Library. With your library card you can get a single pass that gets the whole car load in free. That saved us $24! What a wonderful day and way to spend time with the your loved ones! 💚 The photo of Table Rock was taken at Grant Meadows Overlook, a new area designated for photo opportunities just off Hwy 11 on the way to or from the mountain."
The Golightly's
"Me and my family went only for the day and we all tremendously enjoyed. We started at the visitor’s center. Staff was help and can I say this was the best priced visitor’s center I have visited. We needed a hat and sunglasses and they were very reasonable. We brought a picnic lunch, which used the picnic tables for and kids could play at playground. Hiked the smaller trail with multiple waterfalls and chances to cool off. The trail was very shaded and much appreciated in the month of June. Ended our day at the beach with cold treats from the snack shop. Everyone was friendly and bathrooms were clean. Highly recommend! Kids range between 6-14."
Kellie Lamb
"Very strenuous, steep hike with beautiful views. Bring lots of water and come early—it gets hot, and 2 liters of water is recommended but I ran out by the top of the mountain. Since the fire in spring, much of the natural beauty has been lost, but it is still worth the visit. Wear sunscreen and reapply regularly, though—the loss of tree cover and high elevation is a recipe for a gnarly sunburn, which my group did not escape. Be weary of snakes!"
Laura Orsi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Table Rock State Park is about a 45-minute to 1-hour drive northeast of Greenville, SC. Take US-276 N towards Travelers Rest, then continue on SC-11 N. The park entrance will be on your right.
Public transportation options to Table Rock State Park are very limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
From Greenville, take SC-11 N. The park is located at 1578 State Park Rd, Pickens, SC 29671.
The Table Rock Trailhead typically starts near the Nature Center parking area, adjacent to Pinnacle Lake. Follow signs within the park.
Yes, there are parking lots available, including near the Nature Center and the beach area. Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically $6 per person. However, some local libraries, like Pickens County Library, offer free passes with a library card.
Park hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official South Carolina State Parks website for the most current operating hours before your visit.
While entry fees are usually paid upon arrival, it's advisable to check the park's official website for any reservation requirements or recommendations, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, the Pickens County Library offers a free pass for a carload of visitors with a library card, which can save significant money.
The park gates are typically closed at the official closing time, and visitors are expected to have exited by then. Plan your visit accordingly.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The most challenging is the Table Rock Trail (6.9 miles round trip, 2300 ft elevation gain). For a moderate option, try the Carrick Creek Loop (1.9 miles) with waterfalls. The Lakeside Trail (1.9 miles) around Pinnacle Lake is family-friendly.
No, the Table Rock Trail is considered very strenuous and is often called the hardest hike in South Carolina. It's recommended for experienced hikers.
Yes, the Carrick Creek Loop trail features several beautiful waterfalls, making it a popular choice for a shorter hike.
Yes, Pinnacle Lake and Lake Oolenoy offer opportunities for swimming and fishing. Check park regulations for specific details and licensing requirements.
Absolutely! The park has picnic tables and a playground, making it a great spot for a family day out.
🎫 🏕️ Camping & Lodging
Yes, Table Rock State Park has campgrounds with RV sites and tent sites. They also offer furnished cabins for rent.
The cabins are typically one-bedroom, one-bath, and can sleep up to four people. They often include amenities like a fire pit and picnic table.
Reservations for cabins and campsites can usually be made through the South Carolina State Parks reservation system online or by phone.
Yes, the campgrounds are generally dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for your outdoor adventure.
Campgrounds typically offer basic amenities like restrooms and access to water. Some sites may have hookups for RVs.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Table Rock offers panoramic mountain views. Grant Meadows Overlook on Hwy 11 provides scenic shots of the mountain. The waterfalls and lakes also make for beautiful photography.
Absolutely. The dramatic elevation changes, mountain vistas, and natural features like waterfalls provide excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
Early morning and late afternoon (golden hours) offer the best light for landscape photography, minimizing harsh shadows and enhancing colors.
Look out for interesting rock formations, like the South Carolina-shaped rock mentioned by visitors, and the diverse flora and fauna.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant mountain details. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of waterfalls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the picnic areas and playground, perfect for a relaxed lunch and playtime. If you have a Pickens County Library card, inquire about the free park pass to save on entry fees. Consider staying in one of the park's cabins for a more comfortable family getaway.
⛰️ Avid Hikers & Challenge Seekers
If you're looking for other challenging hikes in the region, consider exploring nearby state parks like Caesars Head or Raven Cliff Falls, which also offer demanding trails and stunning natural beauty.
🐶 Dog-Loving Travelers
The campgrounds are also typically dog-friendly, making it a perfect spot for RV travelers who want to bring their pets. Enjoy exploring the scenic beauty of South Carolina with your four-legged best friend by your side.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the Iconic Table Rock Trail
Tips for Tackling Table Rock Trail:
* Start early: Beat the heat and the crowds. Aim to begin your hike at sunrise or shortly after.
* Hydration is key: Carry at least 2 liters of water per person, and consider a hydration pack.
* Proper footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential for navigating the rocky terrain.
* Sun protection: The summit offers little shade, so wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
* Be aware of wildlife: Keep an eye out for snakes and other local fauna.
* Dog-friendly: Leashed dogs are welcome on this trail, making it a great adventure for canine companions.
Despite its difficulty, reaching the top of Table Rock offers an incredibly rewarding experience with unparalleled views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Exploring the Park's Lakes and Waterfalls
The Carrick Creek Loop is another popular moderate trail, leading hikers to a series of picturesque waterfalls. This trail is a fantastic option for those seeking a shorter hike with rewarding natural features. Visitors can often wade into the creek at the base of the falls to cool off during warmer months.
These areas provide a more relaxed way to experience the park's natural charm, offering a contrast to the strenuous mountain climbs. They are ideal for day trips, picnics, and enjoying the serene environment.
Lodging and Camping Options
Campgrounds are also available, catering to both RVs and tent campers. These sites offer a more immersive outdoor experience, with access to restrooms and water. Many visitors appreciate the convenience of having trails and park amenities just steps away from their campsite.
Reservations for both cabins and campsites are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons. Booking in advance through the South Carolina State Parks system ensures you secure your preferred accommodation.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit