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Ninety Six National Historic Site adventures

Ninety Six National Historic Site Adventures

Ninety Six National Historic Site preserves one of the earliest inland frontier settlements and a significant Revolutionary War battlefield, offering visitors a blend of history and outdoor exploration through its trails and preserved earthworks.

1,540
Acres Protected
6
Miles of Trails
30,000
Annual Visitors
1976
Year Established

About Ninety Six National Historic Site

 

Located in Greenwood County, South Carolina, Ninety Six National Historic Site protects a core piece of American Revolutionary War history centered on the 1781 Siege of Ninety Six — a critical conflict between Patriot and Loyalist forces. The site encompasses approximately 1,540 acres of woodlands, trails, and archaeological remains, including the star-shaped Star Fort, a rare example of an 18th-century earthwork fortification engineered by British forces. The landscape features rolling hills, mixed pine and hardwood forests, and several creeks that sustain a variety of wildlife species such as white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and diverse birds. Visitors can explore multiple interpretive trails, including the Historic Trail and the Star Fort Trail, which showcase the battlefield’s key locations and explain the military strategies employed. The park offers a peaceful setting for hiking, wildlife viewing, and historical interpretation. Ranger-led programs, living history demonstrations, and a visitor center with exhibits and films further enhance the educational experience. Ninety Six National Historic Site draws history enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and families seeking a quiet natural environment that also recounts a pivotal chapter in the struggle for American independence. With well-maintained trails and preserved earthworks, it offers a tangible connection to the past while providing opportunities for recreation amidst scenic woodlands.

Highlights

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Star Fort earthworks – one of the best-preserved Revolutionary War fortifications

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Historic Trail showcasing battlefield sites and original town layout

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Ranger-led living history programs demonstrating 18th-century military life

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Wooded trails offering wildlife viewing opportunities including birds and deer

Notable Natural Features

Star Fort

A rare and well-preserved star-shaped earthwork constructed by the British during the 1781 siege.

Historic Siege Battlefield

The site of a prolonged Revolutionary War conflict with visible earthworks and trenches still intact.

Visitor Center

Offers exhibits, a short documentary film, and interpretive displays about the area's history and ecology.