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Camp Spots

The 5 Best Spots To Set Up Camp In South Carolina

Sometimes all you need in life are a few days to disconnect and relax. What better way to do that than get out of the noisy house and away from the busy city and go camping in the great outdoors of South Carolina. Take your friends and enjoy a Wi-Fi free environment surrounded by nature and clean air. Pack the necessities (tents, matches, flashlights, blankets, pillows, fold up chairs, marshmallows, etc.)  and head to one of these great camping spots.

Calhoun Falls State Park

At Calhoun Falls, campers can catch their own dinner! Go fishing for bass, catfish, bream and more. Then take a swim in the lake, hike through the trails, and play tennis at the courts for a fun-filled day outside. At night circle around the fire pits to roast marshmallows.

Oconee State Park

Located upstate in the hills of the Blue Ridge Mountains is Oconee State Park. Campers here can enjoy two large lakes for swimming, boating, and fishing, as well as hiking trails for all levels. Get cozy underneath the stars and breathe in the cool mountain air.

Devils Fork State Park

Get ready for some seriously beautiful views at Devils Fork. Surrounded by mountains, campers can take advantage of some of the best hiking trails in the state. Live in the moment and enjoy the beautiful scenery around Lake Jocassee and then snap a quick photo to look back on later.

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Lake Jocassee #scstateparks #discoversc #discover_carolinas

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Edisto Island State Park

Not only do campers get a fantastic nature experience at Edisto Island, but they also get an educational experience pitching tents where Native Americans once inhabited. Go for a hike following the Spanish Moss Trail and campers will find the second oldest Native American pottery site that has artifacts dating back to 2,000 BC.

Hickory Knob State Park

Turn the campsite into a home away from home at Hickory State Park. For those more about the glamping life than the camping life, there are 1 and 2 bedroom cabins for rent, as well as 3 bedroom houses with modern home amenities. Go kayaking in the lake and then practice archery, shoot skeet or enjoy playing some tennis!

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Good morning from Lake Strom Thurmond

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Where is your favorite place to go camping in South Carolina?

 

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Summer Tips

Beat The South Carolina Heat With These 5 Summer Tips

Summer may not officially be here, but the summer heat has definitely arrived. And while we appreciate the warm weather and the fun beach days, the summer heat can sometimes be unbearable and make even the most fun activity miserable.

And since we’re all friends, we want to remind you of some important summer tips:

Don’t Get Too Much Sun

Although it’s important to get fresh air and some Vitamin D, it’s also important to do so in moderation during the summer in South Carolina. Too much time in the sun can cause sunburn, dehydration, and lead to more dangerous health scares. Avoid being out in the sun during its strongest peak, which are between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Apply Sunscreen

No one wants to deal with uncomfortable sunburn, or worse, what could turn into dangerous skin cancer. Be sure to apply sunscreen throughout the day to all uncovered areas of your body, including your face, ears, and hands. The higher the SPF the better the protection against sunburn and wrinkles.

Turn On The A.C.

Summertime in South Carolina is no time to worry about the air conditioning bill. Air conditioning is a must in South Carolina to make sure your body isn’t overheated. Stay in an air-conditioned place during the day, especially when the sun is at its strongest. Try to avoid staying in the heat too long and move inside when you’re able to.

Drink Enough Water

Drinking enough water is the most important thing you can do in the summer to avoid dehydration. Because of the high temperature, your body will sweat out fluids that will need to be replaced ASAP. Invest in a reusable water bottle and refill it throughout the day to ensure you’re staying hydrated.

Dress Comfortably

Even though jeans and sweaters can be fashionable in the cooler months, they are not items of clothing you want to be wearing in the blazing heat. Instead wear light-weight sundresses, loose fitted shorts and short sleeve t-shirts for maximum comfort in the summer. If you can throw on a hat to avoid a sunburn on top of your head and keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face!

Oh yeah, Don’t forget to wear sunscreen! We know we already said that but seriously, don’t forget.

 

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BFF Road Trip

The Ultimate SC Road Trip For You And Your BFF!

Want to know what’s better than a BFF night? A BFF road trip!

That’s right. Just you and your bestie hitting the open road with an awesome playlist, a bag full of snacks, and all the tea to spill. Traveling with your bestie is a major bonding experience that both of you need ASAP! Take yourselves out of your element and relax with your person by your side.

So load up your car because we’ve got a fun and fabulous SC road trip planned for you and your BFF.

Greenville, SC

Kick off the first day of the road trip by heading upstate to Greenville. Once there, stretch your legs and go for an afternoon hike along the Swamp Rabbit Trail where you can enjoy the great outdoors and exercise with your best friend. After, head downtown and go shopping to find a new outfit to wear to your late lunch date. You and your BFF can catch up and take in the up and coming city.

Myrtle Beach, SC

After a night in Greenville, head towards the coast to the casual, but always entertaining  Myrtle Beach. When you get there, find affordable lodging where you can park the car. Take a walk to the crowded boardwalk and breathe in the nightlife of bustling Myrtle Beach. Go through a haunted house, play games at the arcade and find a fun bar to get a quick dinner and enjoy live music together.

Charleston, SC

In the morning drive south along the coast to the Lowcountry and park in Charleston. Head downtown and take a drive to The Battery, then stroll through the market to find matching best friend bracelets. Check out one of the local breweries in town before heading to King St. where you can find low to high-end shopping. Make a reservation for two at one of the many restaurants in town and enjoy a late dinner and drinks before heading back to your hotel. On a budget? Spend less on a hotel by staying in Mount Pleasant or West Ashley which is just a quick Uber or Lyft from downtown.

Hilton Head Island, SC

When you wake up throw on a bathing suit for the last leg of the trip and drive to the relaxing Hilton Head Island. Rent bikes and ride through town and find a casual lunch spot. After two full days of exploring, get some R&R together and enjoy the beautiful beaches. Throw down two towels and enjoy each others company, after all the best kind of friend is the one you can just lay low and do nothing with. Find a cute bed and breakfast for the last night of your trip to watch a movie together in bed and get delivery from the best pizza place on the island.

Closer to Hilton Head Island than Greenville? Don’t worry! You can switch it up. Start wherever you’re closest to and have a blast!

 

 

Eat & Drink

South Carolina Doughnut Shops

Donut Miss Out! These Are The Best Doughnut Shops In South Carolina

Featured Image: Donut Connection/FB

Doughnuts can be traced back long before people started the doughnut/donut debate. And whichever way you choose to spell doughnut, there’s one thing we can all agree on: they’re delicious! We don’t think we’ve ever had a bad doughnut honestly. They can be enjoyed any time of the day, in the morning with a cup of joe, at night before you head to bed, or anytime in between. Thankfully South Carolina has some pretty delicious doughnut shops around the state.

Here are our favorite doughnut shops in the Palmetto State:

Murray’s Donuts

Sumter, S.C.

Just like their sign out front says, these doughnuts are so fresh they should have their faces slapped! Choose from many different flavors like raspberry filled, Bavarian cream, coconut, or glazed. Still have morning hair? No worries, there’s a drive-thru so you can grab a doughnut or dozen on the go.

Murray’s Donuts photos

Photo of Murray’s Donuts – “Lots of donuts…” – Sumter, SC

Sunny’s Donuts

Gaffney, S.C.

This small shop makes their doughnuts from scratch using longtime family recipes. Go traditional with tasty flavors like an iced, jelly filled, and sprinkled or be adventurous and try unique flavors like Fruity Pebbles and Fruit Loops.

Donut Connection

Goose Creek, S.C.

Calling all doughnut lovers, this doughnut shop has everything from the classics to new concoctions sure to please your tastebuds. Try their delicious donut holes, cream and jelly filled donuts, classic ring doughnuts, or venture out and try the chocolate cake and white cake doughnuts.

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My favorite kind of breakfast

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The Donut Experiment

Greenville, S.C.

Be your own doughnut chef. Create your own doughnut by starting with a fresh, warm donut made right in front of you. From there tell the staff how you would like to personalize it by choosing from six different icings and an assortment of topping likes bacon, candy bars, sprinkles, Oreo’s or sea salt.

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Rainbow Donuts

York, S.C.

The loyal fans of Rainbow Donuts are proud to say these are the best donuts ever! See if you agree by stopping in the city’s local doughnut shop and choose your desired flavor from a fresh variety of homemade doughnuts.

Rainbow Donuts photos

Photo of Rainbow Donuts – “My dozen assorted” – York, SC

Glazed Gourmet Doughnuts

Charleston, S.C.

Located on busy Upper King, this doughnut shop is everything your doughnut dreams are made of. The bakery has 200 different flavors and styles to chose from that are sure to spark your sweet tooth. Oh!- and it’s open late night when you need a sugar rush after the bar.

Donut wait, head to your favorite doughnut shop!

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South Carolina Trivia

10 Trivia Questions That Will Prove Just How Well You Know SC

South Carolina is known for its delicious southern food, beautiful beaches along the coast, old south plantations, and of course, its vital part in U.S. history. Do you think you know everything there is to know about the great state of South Carolina? Test your knowledge and see if you can answer these trivia questions correctly!

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south carolina heat movies

Beat The South Carolina Heat With One Of These Summer Movies

The summer heat is officially here and while we love our beach days, sometimes the high temps can make even the most fun beach day miserable. So, we’re rounding up some of the best movies already at and heading to the big screen so you can beat the heat with a good movie.

Here are five movies we’re definitely going to enjoy some popcorn while watching:

Aladdin

Released on May 24th, this live-action remake of Disney’s original is definitely a crowd pleaser for all ages. Favorite songs such as, “A Whole New World,” “Friend Like Me,” and “Prince Ali” are included in the remake, as well as many other new hits! Oh yeah, and did we mention Will Smith is playing the Genie? #GettinGenieWitIt?

Rocketman

Out of this world good, this classic rock movie follows the life of the one and only Elton John. Actor, Taron Egerton, perfectly mirrors the rockstars love for flair and frill and does a killer impression of the man who brought us hits like “Bennie and the Jets”, “Tiny Dancer”, and so many more. Rocketman touched down in theaters May 31st and is the 1980s.

Yesterday

Have Beatles fever? Catch Yesterday, a movie that follows the journey of a young musician who wakes up after an accident during a global blackout and discovers he’s the only person in the world that remembers The Beatles. He then goes on to become famous as he passes their songs off as his own. Believe in Yesterday when it comes to theaters on June 24th.   

The Lion King

Another film for all ages, The Lion King’s live-action remake will be a big seller for Disney this summer. Beyonce and the rest of this talented cast will be singing from Pride Rock to the Elephant Graveyard with songs like “Can You Feel The Love Tonight,” “Hakuna Matata” and “Circle of Life.” Catch Simba, Timon, and Pumba in theaters July 19th.

Blinded By The Light

Pakistani teen, Javed, is having a hard time growing up in England in the 1980’s until he finds a common bond in the lyrics of Bruce Springsteen’s songs. Javed finds relief and understanding in the Boss’ songs and ultimately uses them to overcome his harsh relationship with narrow-minded family and societal expectations. Catch Javed cut loose like a deuce in theaters August 14th.

 

Featured

Instagram-Worthy Spots Around South Carolina

The 5 Most Instagram-Worthy Spots Around South Carolina

Feature Image: Boone Hall Plantation/FB

Whether you’re a native of the Palmetto State or visiting for a bit, your followers will feel obligated to double tap your photo taken at any of these goregous Instagram-worthy spots around South Carolina. And, don’t worry these spots are so naturally beautiful that no filter is necessary.

1. Brookgreen Gardens

Just south of Myrtle Beach, stop by this beautiful sculpture garden and wildlife preserve. The graceful foliage and natural landscape at this historic site is the perfect backdrop for a killer Insta pic.

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Dripping with beauty. ?: @goodvibecations #CLPicks

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2. Angel Oak Tree

Strike a pose at this 60 ft tree located in Johns Island, right outside of Charleston. The Angel Oak is a live oak tree, said to be one of the oldest things in the country. Be sure to step back so you can get all 187 ft of the longest branch in your shot!

3. Rainbow Row

Take a trip to downtown Charleston and snap a picture in front of the whimsical Rainbow Row. Located on East Bay in the historic district, the row of thirteen beautiful pastel colored homes are sure to add a pop of color to your Insta feed.

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Charleston is a dream ?

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4. Congaree National Park

Get your camera ready as you walk down the Boardwalk Loop Trail that leads you through the swamps of South Carolina. Have a friend take your picture as you walk ahead with the lush trees and the vibrant environment as your background. #Nature

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explorin some neature #neat

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Boone Hall Plantation & Gardens

Located in Mount Pleasant, this famous plantation is the perfect spot to wow your Insta followers. A quick pic in front of the arranged columns of live oak trees at the entrance paired with a quote from The Notebook caption is sure to have your notifications on fire.

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South Carolina events this weekend

Can’t Miss Events in South Carolina This Weekend May 17-19, 2019

Featured Picture: Greeneville Drive Facebook

Looking for fun things to do in the Palmetto state? Take a look at these fun events happening in South Carolina this weekend!

Friday, May 17, 2019

A Taste of Newberry

Check out downtown Newberry and get a taste of all they have to offer. Enjoy live jazz music, beer, wine and some of the best food from local restaurants. The festivities will go from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday Night Fireworks

Take the family out for a baseball game and fireworks! Support the Greenville Drive as they play West Virginia at the Flour Field at 7 pm. Presented by  Hubbell Lighting.

A Chorus Line

Come out to Arts Center of Coastal Carolina in Hilton Head and enjoy a relaxing night at the theater with Broadway’s upbeat musical, A Chorus Line. The curtain opens at 8 p.m. Tickets are available online.

Saturday, May 18,  2019

Summerville Farmers Market

What better way to spend your Saturday morning then by shopping for local produce, baked goods, crafts and more! Stop by Summerville’s farmers market located in the parking lot of First Citizens Bank from 8 a.m. to  1 p.m.

Military Appreciation Event

Celebrate our veterans at the Technical College of the Lowcountry in Beaufort from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Enjoy Nicks BBQ, bounce houses, face painting and words of thanks to those serving our country.

Race for Charity 5K

Break a sweat for a cause! The race will begin at the Lancaster High School track at 8 a.m. Register online. All proceeds for this run will go to local charities around the area.

Sunday, May 19, 2019

Beer School at Flying Saucer

Are you a woman in the Columbia area? Wish you knew more about beer? Join us at the Flying Saucer Columbia where you will learn all about beer while tasting some of their 100+ beers. Boys are welcome to hang out and learn at the “Bro’s Brew Out” table.

Movie on the Lawn

Sunday scaries got you down? You’re killing me smalls! For those in the Spartanburg area, check out the All-American baseball movie shown on the lawn at Drayton Mills while enjoying some delicious pizza. The movie begins at 8 p.m.

Bend and Brew at Legal Remedy

Start your Sunday the right way with a Vinyasa flow yoga class at Legal Remedy Brewing in Rock Hill and enjoy a beer afterward. Tickets are available online in advance for $10 and $13 at the door, cash only.