Visit national parks in the Upstate during National Park Week April 17-25

If you’re looking for a way to reset and recharge, the National Park Service is inviting you to enjoy the outdoors, learn a little history and perhaps visit a new place during National Park Week, April 17-25.

South Carolina has seven national parks, with three located right here in the Upstate: Cowpens National Battlefield in Gaffney; Kings Mountain National Military Park in Blacksburg; and Ninety-Six National Historic Site in Ninety-Six.

During National Park Week, parks across the country are hosting special programs, events and digital experiences. Check individual park websites for things to do at each location during the week.

Cowpens National Battlefield, Gaffney

Cowpens National Battlefield is a Revolutionary War battle site that commemorates the victory of Brigadier General Daniel Morgan over Lieutenant Colonel Banastre Tarleton. The battle played an important role in events that ultimately led to the defeat and surrender of the British commander Lord Earl Cornwallis at Yorktown, Virginia, in October 1781.

The 845-acre park features the battlefield, an automobile loop around the perimeter of the battlefield, a walking trail and a picnic area with a covered shelter. The park is open from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily.

Ninety-Six National Historic Site, Ninety-Six

An area of historical and archeological significance, Ninety-Six National Historic Site is where, from May 22 – June 18, 1781, Major General Nathanael Greene with 1,000 patriot troops staged the longest field siege of the Revolutionary War against 550 loyalists who were defending Ninety-Six.

With plenty of things to do, the park features historic interpretive trails, hiking and horse trails, a pond where fishing is allowed, picnic area and indoor theater. The park is open from 9 am- 5:00 pm daily.

Kings Mountain National Military Park, Blacksburg

Kings Mountain National Military Park is the site of the “turning point” of the Revolutionary War in the South where on October 7, 1780, an hour-long battle changed the course of war. The park’s visitors center includes a 26-minute film, exhibit area and 1.5-mile battlefield trail that chronicles the first major Revolutionary Ware victory in the South.

This park includes 4,000 acres of land with a variety of animal and bird life and more than 542 species of plants. There are walking, backcountry hiking and horse trails, as well as camping at Garner Creek Campsite.

Beginning today, April 14, the Battlefield Trail, parking lot, and visitor services will be closed until further notice for a prescribed burn. Some hiking trails may still be accessible via Crowders Mountain and Kings Mountain State Parks.