These are the top 5 places I love to go to take pictures in Upstate, SC!
1. Hatcher Gardens
Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, Inc. exists to provide a place where the public can come for inspiration, enjoyment, and education through the study of nature. Their botanical garden aspires to be recognized regionally and nationally as a model and premier source of environmental education for children and adults and a haven of peace and beauty for the community and tourists alike. Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve, Inc. is a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization that operates on an annual budget that is raised every year from donations, grants, sponsorships, events, and educational programs
2. Glendale Shoals
The Glendale Shoals Preserve consists of 29-acres of scenic land located at the old Glendale Mill site along Lawson's Fork Creek. The original 12-acre preserve was donated to SPACE in 1993 by Billy Tobias. Then in 2022, SPACE purchased the 17-acre Glendale Mill Site to protect this iconic and beloved community space from high density development. The property is adjacent to the Wofford College Goodall Environmental Studies Center. It includes a scenic view of a beautiful waterfall that cascades over a dam under the Glendale Bridge, contains 1.5 miles of nature trails, and hosts significant plant, animal, and bird life. When the water is low, walk across the shoals, skip some rocks, and enjoy the view! In addition to the scenic value of the property, this land is steeped in local history. In the 1800’s, the area was known as Bivingsville and was the site of a large textile mill, the Glendale Cotton Mill, which also supported a local mill village.
3. Campbell's Covered Bridge
Constructed between 1909 and 1911 Campbell’s Covered Bridge is the only remaining covered bridge in the State of South Carolina, a state that once had 20 covered bridges. The 38 foot long, 12-foot-wide pine structure that spans Beaverdam Creek was built by Charles Irwin Willis. The bridge is named for Alexander Lafayette Campbell who operated the grist mill just downstream of the bridge. Today the bridge and the surrounding 18.65-acre park is a serene location in northern Greenville County where visitors can picnic, explore the foundations of the old grist mill and home site, wet their feet on a hot summer day in Beaverdam Creek, hike the short 8/10th mile nature trail, and learn about the area through interpretive signage.
4. Greer City Park
Greer City Park is located in Historic Downtown Greer. Built in 2008, this 12-acre park is open year-round and has become a favorite destination for residents and visitors.
City Park has several rental options. The picnic shelter offers a generous space for casual gatherings. The amphitheater can accommodate events from small outdoor weddings to large concerts. The amphitheater offers tiered seating and easy access to the Event Halls. The iconic gazebo overlooks a serene pond and could be a picturesque setting for a fairy tale wedding.
5. Cleveland Park
Cleveland Park is owned and operated by the Spartanburg County Parks Department. Cleveland Park is home to the John B. Cleveland Event Center, multiple picnic shelters, a large playground, pond, island gazebo, walking trails, and outdoor fitness equipment. Cleveland Park hosts numerous community programs and events, and its facilities are available or private functions.
