Gallery: Take in nature at Sesquicentennial State Park

With social media, schoolwork and duties of various jobs, it is common to get caught up in the allure of traveling and going somewhere far from here. It is much too easy to forget the natural environment of Columbia and all the hiking trails, campsites or green spaces this state has to offer. This region is home to multiple scenic State Parks, and the Sesquicentennial is no exception. Less than 20 miles away, these peaceful landscapes are right in our backyard. And if you are crunched for time, it wouldn’t even take a whole day trip.

A vine twists around a tree in a grove at Sesquicentennial State Park. The park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps. It has hiking trails, streams, a pond, camping sites, a dog park and plenty of forest and fields.

Paddle boats, canoes and water boards can be found on the side of the pond at Sesquicentennial State Park. The park also offers many spaces to hike, camp or relax.

A grove of trees at "Sesqui," or Sesquicentennial State Park. Sesquicentennial State Park was created by the Civilian Conservation Corps and has hiking trails, streams, a pond, camping sites, a dog park and plenty of forest and fields.

People sit, read, talk and enjoy the South Carolina weather along a paved path through Sesquicentennial State park.

The sunlight touches the treetops at Sesquicentennial State Park.

A picnic bench sits besides the water at Sesquicentennial State Park. There are many spots for people to enjoy lunch, read a book or soak up the sun.