Wilderness Whisperer

If you know anything about South Carolina weather, you know that it stays "famously hot". As the temperatures begin to rise, there's a palpable urgency to spend as much time outdoors as possible before the scorching heat and mosquitoes descend upon the land. With an early Spring gracing us this year, I seized the opportunity to embark on an outdoor adventure, venturing out to Camden, SC , to explore the scenic wonders of Goodale State Park . Nestled in the heart of South Carolina, Goodale State Park beckons with its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. What's more enticing is that it offers free admission, making it an accessible destination for all. However, here's a little insider tip: most libraries in South Carolina provide state park passes for checkout, making it even easier to immerse oneself in the wonders of nature without breaking the bank. As I embarked on the 2-mile nature trail loop, I was immediately captivated by the serene landsca...

Have you ever found yourself caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life, only to realize there's a nearby natural treasure waiting to be discovered? That's exactly what happened to me during my lunch break at work earlier today. As I sat pondering my post-shift plans, it hit me—I had yet to explore Congaree Creek Heritage Preserve , a sprawling urban forest just outside of Columbia, SC . Nestled in Cayce, SC , the preserve spans 1,286 acres of pristine swamp land, teeming with an abundance of wildlife including alligators, wild boars, bobcats, and more. Despite living nearby for years, I had somehow overlooked this gem until now. With curiosity piqued, I set out after work, first making a quick stop to cast my vote at my polling location and stopping at home to let my furry friend go outside. As tempted as I was to bring my dog along for the adventure, the thought of dealing with a muddy car afterwards convinced me to leave him at home. Arriving at the preserve , I was g...