Here is a full article highlighting Spartanburg’s best outdoor parks and trails:
Spartanburg’s Best Outdoor Parks and Trails
Even if urban energy is your usual rhythm, Spartanburg provides exceptional escapes to nature just minutes from downtown. The area’s park system blends family-friendly facilities, scenic greenways, and preserved wild spaces perfect for relaxing, exercising, or exploring local wildlife.
Cottonwood Trail and Edwin Griffin Nature Preserve
One of the most popular destinations in Spartanburg is the Cottonwood Trail, a 1.25-mile footpath forming the heart of the Edwin Griffin Nature Preserve, a sprawling 115-acre sanctuary just outside the city center. Hikers, birdwatchers, and families flock here for shaded walks along Lawson’s Fork Creek, a 550-foot boardwalk stretching across 20 acres of wetlands, and the opportunity to spot deer, foxes, wild turkeys, and up to fifty varieties of local trees. The preserve’s wetlands—shaped by generations of industrious beavers—are a favorite for birding, with red-shouldered hawks, barred owls, and colorful summer warblers occupying the canopy. Picnic tables and a disc golf course round out the offerings, and dogs are welcome on-leash.
Croft State Park
If you’re craving a bigger outdoor adventure, Croft State Park sits just east of the city. The park boasts nearly 40 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, surrounding two large lakes for kayaking and fishing. Visitors love the Palmetto Trail—a moderate 12.5-mile segment ideal for scenic treks—as well as family-friendly paths like Foster Mill and the Nature Trail. From rustic campsites to rolling fields, Croft is the regional go-to for longer excursions with access to abundant wildlife and seasonal events.
Gardens and Urban Greenways
Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is South Carolina’s answer to a living garden showcase, featuring meandering walkways, thousands of native plant species, and tranquil gardens that appeal to both casual walkers and horticulture enthusiasts. Cleveland Park, just inside Spartanburg’s city limits, provides large playgrounds, paved paths, water features, and picnic shelters—ideal for children, family outings, and short neighborhood strolls.
Connective Trails and The “Dan” System
The Daniel Morgan Trail System, or “The Dan,” links more than two dozen miles of trails throughout the urban core and into surrounding neighborhoods. Popular routes include the Mary Black Foundation Rail Trail, a paved greenway popular for walking and biking, and River Birch Trail, which provides leafy cover and easy access to cafes, playgrounds, and local shopping.
More Top Picks
Glendale Shoals offers waterfalls, wildlife, and peaceful walks away from the busy city center.
Barnet Park hosts downtown events and features a summer splash pad and open festival space.
Airport Park delights aviation fans and families with playgrounds and plane-themed splash areas for kids.
Inman Mills Park and Stoneledge Park host youth sports and shaded picnic spots within Spartanburg County.
Facilities for Every Visitor
Most Spartanburg parks provide restrooms, shaded seating, child-friendly amenities, and are dog-friendly. Biking and walking trails are well-marked, scenic, and accessible for all skill levels—offering beautiful views of the Piedmont and easy escapes to nature.
Spartanburg’s mix of preserved wild areas, urban walkways, and community parks makes it one of South Carolina’s most inviting places for outdoor recreation and family adventure.
SOURCES
[1](https://discoversouthcarolina.com/articles/spartanburgs-cottonwood-trail-is-a-popular-destination-to-hike-bike-and-enjoy-nature)
[2](https://www.traillink.com/city/spartanburg-sc-trails/)
[3](https://www.spartanburgparks.org/226/Trails)
[4](https://kiddingaroundgreenville.com/guide-to-parks-in-spartanburg-sc)
[5](https://www.tripadvisor.in/Attractions-g54448-Activities-c57-Spartanburg_South_Carolina.html)
