Take a short road trip to Thoroughbred Country, where outdoor adventures, from baseball to boating, make memories for the young and young at heart
When the weather warms up, family-friendly attractions get hot in Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina. Crank the engine, roll down the windows and take a drive to this charming stretch of the Palmetto State, situated between Atlanta and Charleston—just east of Augusta, Georgia. Thoroughbred Country’s central location makes it the perfect stopping point on a road-trip or ideal for a long weekend getaway. The collection of small towns that make up this area offers inexpensive and unique attractions that your precious cargo will want to load up for again and again.
Day 1: First stop—Batter up! Pile out of the car and soak in family time with America’s favorite pastime. Watch the San Francisco Giant’s minor league team, the Augusta Green Jackets, take on the competition in their brand new stadium. Your family can be one of the first to take a seat in this state-of-the-art baseball complex in gorgeous North Augusta. Complete with 36 food stands, a Biergarten and a riverfront view, watching the Green Jackets play ball is not just a game, it’s an experience. After the match up on the diamond, take a stroll in the Riverside Village at Hammond’s Ferry. This adorable waterfront area is home to the lush North Augusta Greenway and several parks where the kids can stretch out and play. End the evening by walking to one of the area’s delicious restaurants. Savor upscale eats at Manuel’s Bread Café, share tapas at Hammond’s Ferry Larder or sample Mediterranean favorites at DiVino Ristorante Italiano. For Green Jacket ticket information, visit GreenJackets2018.com
Day 2: Set the GPS for Bamberg County, which gives B.Y.O.B a new meaning—bring your own boat. Load up your canoe or kayak and float the serene South Fork portion of the Edisto River. The Edisto is one of the longest black rivers in the country, stretching 250-miles and flowing through 10 counties in South Carolina. The calm waters are enveloped by intertwining Cypress and dotted with lily pads and unique flora that give South Fork its peaceful feel. The river’s calm nature makes it an ideal outdoor excursion for the entire family. Glide into a trip to remember by registering for one of the Bamberg County Chamber’s organized outings, which includes a free shuttle ride. Call the Chamber at 803-245-4427 to reserve a spot. Need a boat? Rent a canoe or kayak from Edisto River Adventures by emailing or calling, EdistoRiverAdventures@gmail.com, 843-695-8146.
Day 3: Get fastened in once again and set out for destinations sure to make lasting family memories at Aiken State Park and Barnwell State Park. Built in 1934, Aiken State Park is located along the Edisto River. Explore over 1,000 acres of swamp, dry sand hills and nature trails this beauty offers. Take the family on natural adventures like birding, hiking and boating. Bring “reel” meaning to farm-to-table. Drop a line in one of the four park lakes and reel in bream, bass and catfish. Roll out the RV or set up a tent and spend a night under the stars at one of the park’s 25 campsites. Looking for a cabin rental? Look no further than nearby Barnwell State Park. Located on a coastal plain and complete with three stunning lakes, explore the trails, pack a picnic and end the day in one of the five cozy lodges fully equipped for a family of six. Make reservations by calling 1-866-345-PARK. For boat rental information email Aiken State Park directly at aiken@scprt.com.
You don’t have to travel far or spend much to create precious stories your family will talk about for years to come. Get outside, unplug and connect with those who matter most in Thoroughbred Country, South Carolina.