South Carolina is creating its first new state park in two decades, a project that is now officially underway along the Catawba River. While the park does not yet have an official name, it is located on a vast 1,400-acre tract of land that was formerly part of the Catawba Indian Nation’s reservation.
This new park, expected to open to the public in 2026, will be a major addition to the state’s park system, which has not seen a new park since Charles Towne Landing in 2006. The project is a collaboration between state and local governments and is being led by the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT).
Officials say the park will offer a range of recreational opportunities that highlight its natural and historical significance. The land includes a significant portion of the Catawba River shoreline, which will allow for new water-based activities such as kayaking, fishing, and boating. The park will also feature an extensive network of trails for hiking and biking, providing visitors with a new way to explore the region’s diverse ecosystem.
The creation of the park is part of a broader effort to preserve and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of the Catawba River basin. The site’s development will include a focus on environmental conservation and educational programs about the area’s rich history.
The public will have opportunities to provide input on the park’s name and features as the project progresses.
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