Looking to get out of the house? How about a picnic? Pack your favorite sandwich and hop in the car! There are far too many scenic places to come near mentioning all options for your day out and about, but we have a few favorites to note in our amazing Upstate backyard.
Caesars Head State Park:
The breathtaking views from the Caesars Head Overlook will be the perfect backdrop for your meal. Not only can you see the rock formation (pictured) that gave this park its name but you may also see a wide variety of wildlife. Nearby is the parking lot for the Raven Cliff Falls Trail, which happens to be the tallest waterfall in South Carolina! Close at hand is the visitor center and gift shop where you can find more information about this park and area.
Pisgah National Forest:
With 500,000+ acres, you have a plethora of choices for where to enjoy a picnic in the Pisgah National Forest. Pisgah covers much of the north and central western mountains of North Carolina and was all originally part of the Biltmore Estate of Asheville!
There is the Pisgah Inn Restaurant if you prefer to pick-up a picnic lunch to-go or even dine in (yes, we realize this means it isn’t technically a “picnic” but enjoying good food and a view is the goal, right?).
For a list of more remote picnic spots, click here and scroll down to Pisgah National Forest. Here, the Forest Service has compiled a list of areas in the various districts of this vast forest that would make for a wonderful afternoon in nature. 
Mt. Mitchell State Park:
Although a further drive for those located in and around Lake Keowee, it is a drive and view worthy of the trip! Mount Mitchell is the highest point east of the Mississippi River! You can reach this state park via the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and is around a two and a half hour drive from Clemson.
With a quarter mile walk up the paved path, you will arrive at the observation deck that provides 360-degree views! The dedicated picnic area, highest in Eastern America, is at the north end of the parking lot in a shady area. Along with forty tables, there are also some grills available for use and two shelters that include a fireplace.
Even if it is a rather warm day here in Upstate South Carolina, consider bringing a hat or an extra layer as temperatures can be ten to thirty degrees cooler in or near Asheville, North Carolina!
If a picnic is calling your name but would rather not have to worry about packing the basket yourself, consider the Asheville Picnic Company if in that area. Using local food providers, this company will put together a beautiful (and tasty!) picnic for you and your group to enjoy. From the “Traditional Picnic” with the gingham-lined basket to the “Mountaineer Picnic” in an insulated lunch bag, this company will be able to cater to your needs!
Recent Comments