Sesquicentennial State Park
Sesquicentennial State Park is a 1,400-acre urban oasis in northeast Columbia featuring a 30-acre lake, shaded picnic areas, and a mix of easy recreation and quiet natural spaces. Visitors come for paddling, fishing, hiking, and family-friendly outings close to the city.
Free
Visiting with Dogs
Dogs allowed in outdoor areas and on trails; must be leashed, attended, and cleaned up after at all times.
Visitor Tips & Reviews
What Visitors Say
Visitors love Sesquicentennial State Park for its peaceful trails, scenic lake views, family-friendly atmosphere, picnic areas, and easy access to outdoor recreation near Columbia.
Tips from Visitors
- Arrive early for parking, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring bug spray for wooded trails and picnic areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking trails and uneven terrain.
- Check lake rules before swimming, fishing, or paddling.
- Pack water and snacks; amenities may be limited nearby.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sesquicentennial State Park is spring or fall, when temperatures are mild and the lake and wooded areas are especially pleasant for walking, paddling, and picnicking. Summer is popular too, but mornings are best for cooler conditions.
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Explore these attractions near Sesquicentennial State Park:
- South Carolina State MuseumA major Columbia museum with exhibits on art, history, science, and technology.9 miles away
- Riverbanks Zoo & GardenA popular zoo and botanical garden offering family-friendly animal exhibits and landscaped grounds.11 miles away
- Congaree National ParkA nearby national park known for old-growth bottomland hardwood forest and paddling opportunities.24 miles away
Things to Do at Sesquicentennial State Park
Camping at Sesquicentennial State Park
Sesquicentennial State Park offers tent and RV camping with hookups, restrooms, showers, fire rings, picnic tables, and reservations required.
Hiking Trails
Sesquicentennial State Park offers easy, family-friendly day hiking on well-marked, mostly flat trails through pine forest, around a scenic lake, and past quiet wetlands. Hikers often praise the peaceful setting, short loop options, and good birdwatching. Trails are generally well maintained and suitable for beginners, walkers, and casual nature outings, though they can be muddy after rain.
Sesqui Trail
EasyA scenic loop through mixed pine and hardwood forest with views of the park’s lake and wetlands; a great all-around hike for spotting wildlife.
Lake Loop Trail
EasyA relaxed trail circling the lake with frequent water views, boardwalk sections, and a peaceful setting for a short hike.
Sandhills Trail
Easy to ModerateA gently rolling trail through classic Sandhills terrain with shaded stretches and a bit more variety in scenery and footing.
Connector Trail Network
Easy to ModerateA customizable hike using multiple park connectors to create a longer route with forest, lake, and wetland scenery.
Directions
From I-77, take Exit 19 for Two Notch Road and head northeast. Continue about 4 miles; the park entrance will be on the right at 9564 Two Notch Road.
Contact & Info
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular things to do at Sesquicentennial State Park?
Visitors commonly enjoy walking the trails, picnicking, fishing, paddling on the lake, and using the playgrounds. Many reviews mention it as a relaxing spot for easy outdoor time close to Columbia.
Is Sesquicentennial State Park good for families with kids?
Yes. Families often like the playgrounds, open spaces, and short trails. Reviews frequently mention it as an easy, kid-friendly park for a few hours outdoors.
Can you fish at Sesquicentennial State Park?
Yes, fishing is a popular activity at the park’s lake. Visitors often report catching bass and other common freshwater species. A valid South Carolina fishing license is required when applicable.
Are the trails at Sesquicentennial State Park easy to walk?
Most visitors describe the trails as easy to moderate and suitable for casual walkers. They’re often praised for being scenic and manageable, though some areas may be uneven or muddy after rain.
Does Sesquicentennial State Park have picnic areas?
Yes. The park has picnic areas that are frequently used by day visitors and families. Reviews often mention them as convenient for lunch, gatherings, and relaxed outdoor breaks.
Is Sesquicentennial State Park crowded on weekends?
It can be busy on nice weekends, especially in good weather. Many visitors say it still feels peaceful, but parking and popular areas may fill up faster during peak times.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Essential camping & hiking gear we recommend to make your park trip easier and more comfortable.
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