Hickory Knob State Resort Park
Guide

Don’t forget to throw your hiking shoes into the suitcase when you pack for your adventure to Hickory Knob State Resort Park. The park maintains 12 miles of multi-use trails that are perfect for meandering through the mature pine forest or strolling along the lake’s edge. The 12 miles are divided into three different paths that offer their own unique challenges. For guests who want a short hike, you should explore the Beaver Run Trail or the Turkey Ridge Loop Trail. For those looking for a bigger adventure, the Lakeview Loop features seven miles of a dirt trail that is quite difficult. If you are doing a solo hike, we recommend letting the park staff know of your plans before you set out.

There is no better way to spend a hot summer day at Hickory Knob State Resort Park than by getting into a swimsuit, applying some sunscreen, and jumping into the lake. There are designated areas specifically provided for swimmers, so you will have plenty of choice as to where you can swim. For visitors staying at the cabins or lodge, you will also be able to use a swimming pool that is provided by the park. There is no guarantee that lifeguards will be on duty, so be mindful of this before jumping in.

Along with being a great swimming area, Strom Thurmond Lake is also perfect for boating. Boaters may access Strom Thurmond Lake via the boat ramp, which is made especially for park guests. There is a charge for day-use visitors; however, overnight guests may use the boat ramp at no cost. The park also maintains a boat dock that is free to overnight guests. Don't have your own boat? Don't fret. The park has you covered with canoes or kayaks available for you to rent.

A top-rated attraction within the park is the park's picturesque championship golf course. Golfers will want to be sure that they pack their clubs for this. This waterfront, 18-hole championship golf course cuts its way through pine trees and follows Strom Thurmond Reservoir's shoreline, offering golfers stunning lake views. This course was designed by Tom Jackson and will challenge golfers of all ages and ability levels.

Visitors who love to fish should bring their fishing gear with them when setting out on their adventure to Hickory Knob State Resort Park. The massive Strom Thurmond Reservoir an exceptional place to cast a line. There are several species of fish that call the park home, including perch, many species of bass, and stripers. You can also fish from many different areas of the lake, such as the shaded shoreline, from the courtesy dock, or a boat. If you don't have any fishing gear with you, and you are new to fishing, it's not a problem. The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources participates in a Tackle Loaner Program, making it even easier to try a new activity. Stop by the park office for more information on the program.

Guests to Hickory Knob State Resort Park with interest in this modern twist on treasure hunting will be happy to hear that they can find a cache while enjoying this exceptional wooded park. A common geocache, known as the Knob on Hickory Knob is located via a slight detour from the Beaver Run Nature Trail. The hike isn’t overly challenging, but guests should be mindful that parts of the terrain surrounding the cache are overgrown. Cachers should also be on the lookout for snakes and bugs. This cache isn’t recommended for small children.