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National Historic Site · SC

Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Ninety-Six National Historic Site preserves one of the earliest inland British Loyalist outposts and Revolutionary War battlefields, offering visitors a compelling blend of history and outdoor exploration in South Carolina’s Piedmont region.

National Historic Site3944+ Trails

Designation

National Historic Site

Total Wilderness Area

394

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Ninety-Six National Historic Site preserves one of the earliest inland British Loyalist outposts and Revolutionary War battlefields, offering visitors a compelling blend of history and outdoor exploration in South Carolina’s Piedmont region.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in the rolling hills of the South Carolina Piedmont, Ninety-Six National Historic Site encompasses the site of a significant Revolutionary War battle along with a well-preserved colonial-era historic town layout. The site highlights the strategic importance of Ninety Six, a Loyalist stronghold in the western frontier during the early stages of the American Revolution. Visitors can explore earthwork fortifications, including Star Fort, a unique pentagonal star-shaped earthen fortification. The park's geography features gently sloping uplands, mixed hardwood forests, and open fields which provide a quiet, natural setting that complements the historical landscape. Wildlife commonly spotted includes white-tailed deer, eastern wild turkeys, and a variety of songbirds. Key recreation opportunities include self-guided walking tours, hiking trails that pass near historic earthworks, and interpretive programs that bring the 18th-century conflict to life. The Visitor Center offers exhibits and detailed information on the Battle of Ninety Six (1781) and its broader military context. Ninety-Six additionally appeals to history enthusiasts, educators, and families seeking an immersive outdoor experience combined with cultural education. The serene setting also makes it a rewarding spot for photography and nature appreciation.

Field Guide · National Historic Site
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Camp at Lake Greenwood State Park★ 7.0⌖ 5 miCamping
State Park Road

Camp at Lake Greenwood State Park

Lake Greenwood State Park offers picturesque camping with activities like fishing and hiking. Suitable for families, it's a popular spot about an hour from Greenville, SC, accessible year-round, though busiest in summer. Enjoy lakeside campsites and park history.

Fishing at Lake Greenwood★ 7.0⌖ 5 miFishing
Seaboard Avenue

Fishing at Lake Greenwood

Enjoy a peaceful day of fishing at Lake Greenwood, located near Greenwood, SC. This accessible lake is popular for fishing and boating, providing a family-friendly atmosphere with opportunities to catch bass and catfish. Best visited in spring and fall for optimal fishing conditions.

Outdoor Haven at Lake Greenwood State Park, Ninety Six, SC★ 6.5⌖ 5 miFishing
Lake Greenwood State Park

Outdoor Haven at Lake Greenwood State Park, Ninety Six, SC

Lake Greenwood State Park in Ninety Six, SC offers fishing, hiking, camping, and boating around an 11,400-acre freshwater lake. Easy drive-in access provides family-friendly outdoor recreation with scenic forests and beaches. Ideal in spring and fall for fishing and hiking.

Off-Road Adventure at Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park, Waterloo, SC★ 4.5⌖ 19 miOff-Road Driving
Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park

Off-Road Adventure at Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park, Waterloo, SC

Located near Waterloo, SC, Gulches Off Road Vehicle Park offers diverse trails for all skill levels in off-road driving. The park features camping by the river and hosts regular events. Best visited spring through fall, it suits adventure seekers looking for rugged outdoor driving and scenic trails.

Off-Road DrivingView Details→
Discover the Charm of Great Falls★ 7.2⌖ 22 miHiking
Great Falls

Discover the Charm of Great Falls

Explore the moderate trails of Great Falls, SC, featuring a stunning waterfall and historical mill ruins. Ideal for hiking and birding, this area offers great fishing spots and scenic views. Enjoy a family-friendly adventure with spring or fall visits.

Sumter National Forest: Enoree Ranger District★ 7.8⌖ 31 miHiking
US Forest Service, Sumter National Forest, Enoree Ranger District

Sumter National Forest: Enoree Ranger District

Explore the diverse trails of Enoree Ranger District in Sumter National Forest, just an hour from Columbia, SC. The area's lush landscapes and river access make it ideal for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Visit in spring or fall for the best experience.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Star Fort, a rare and well-preserved Revolutionary War earthwork fortification✦ Historic town layout with interpretive signage highlighting Loyalist and Patriot history✦ Scenic easy trails through hardwood forests and fields surrounding battle sites✦ On-site Visitor Center featuring detailed exhibits and battlefield maps
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
Park Recreation

Educational Tours

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
Park Recreation

History Interpretation

Available in Ninety-Six National Historic Site
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Ninety-Six National Historic Site.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free admission, no permits required

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Ninety Six
⌖ 2.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Ninety Six, South Carolina

A historic Southern town offering rugged outdoor exploration with plentiful hiking, biking, and paddling through serene parks and preserved battlefields.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Greenwood
⌖ 8.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greenwood, South Carolina

A charming Southern town with a unique blend of lakeside relaxation and outdoor adventure opportunities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Waterloo
⌖ 14.32 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Waterloo, South Carolina

A quiet rural town offering calm access to natural waterways and forested areas for low-key outdoor activities.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Abbeville
⌖ 20.95 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Abbeville, South Carolina

A charming Southern town offering a quiet gateway to scenic rivers, gentle trails, and rich natural landscapes for paddlers, hikers, and cyclists.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Laurens
⌖ 24.28 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Laurens, South Carolina

A quiet small town offering easy access to peaceful natural areas, calm waterways, and rolling countryside perfect for outdoor recreation enthusiasts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Due West
⌖ 24.96 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Due West, South Carolina

A quiet small town offering a mix of low-impact outdoor activities with peaceful natural settings and easy access to nearby lakes and trails.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Ninety-Six National Historic Site

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.