and you’re craving a quick change of scenery, you’re in a great spot. Within about an hour’s drive, you can find lakes, gardens, historic towns, and even a state capital packed with fun things to do.
This guide focuses on
No stops in Sumter County itself—just pure out-of-county exploring.
1. Lake Marion Escape in Clarendon County
If you’re dreaming of water, head to
Lake Marion in Clarendon County, about 30–45 minutes south of Sumter (depending on where you start).
This huge lake is known as the “inland sea” of South Carolina. It’s perfect for:
- Fishing – bass, catfish, crappie, and more
- Boating – bring your own or rent from a local marina
- Kayaking & canoeing
- Picnics and sunset views along the shore
If you like a slower pace, explore small towns like
Manning or
Summerton. You’ll find:
- Down-home diners and meat-and-three restaurants
- Cozy lakeside spots and RV parks
- Local bait shops full of fishing stories
Have you ever watched a storm roll in over a lake? On Lake Marion, those big open skies make it feel dramatic but peaceful at the same time.
2. Santee National Wildlife Refuge – Birding & History
Also in Clarendon County, the
Santee National Wildlife Refuge is a great half-day getaway, roughly 45 minutes from Sumter.
This is where you:
- Walk easy nature trails through forests and wetlands
- Spot migratory birds and maybe even bald eagles
- Look for alligators sunning near the water (from a safe distance!)
- Learn about the Santee Indian Mound, a prehistoric earthwork later used as a Revolutionary War fort
The trails are mostly flat, so they’re good for kids, seniors, or anyone who just wants a gentle stroll. Bring:
- Bug spray
- Binoculars
- A camera or your phone for wildlife shots
On quiet mornings, all you hear is birds and the breeze. It’s a pretty nice reset after a busy workweek.
3. Columbia Day Trip: Museums, Food, and the Riverfront (Richland County)
Want a little big-city energy? Head about an hour northwest to
Columbia in Richland County. It’s an easy, straight shot from Sumter and makes a perfect
day trip.
Some highlights:
- South Carolina State House – Walk the grounds, learn some state history, and see the beautiful architecture.
- South Carolina State Museum – Hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and often special traveling shows. Great for families.
- Riverfront Park – Stroll the paved paths along the Broad River; it’s an easy walk with great views.
- Five Points & The Vista – Neighborhoods full of restaurants, coffee shops, and local boutiques.
If you love food, Columbia gives you options:
- BBQ joints serving pulled pork and ribs
- Trendy brunch spots
- Craft beer breweries and taprooms
One simple Columbia routine I love: morning at the museum, lunch somewhere casual, then a slow walk along the river to work it off.
4. Riverbanks Zoo & Garden – Family Favorite in Richland County
While you’re thinking about Columbia, don’t skip
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, just over the county line in Richland. From Sumter, you’re looking at about an hour or a little less.
Why it’s worth the drive:
- Over 2,000 animals – lions, giraffes, penguins, koalas, and more
- A huge botanical garden with shady paths and seasonal flowers
- Kid-friendly play areas and splash zones in summer
- Fun extras like zip lines and behind-the-scenes experiences (for an added fee)
This one makes a great all-day trip:
- Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds
- Pack water and maybe a light snack
- Wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk a lot
Even adults without kids love it here. The gardens alone are worth the visit if you enjoy plants or photography.
5. Camden & Historic Horse Country in Kershaw County
About 35–45 minutes north of Sumter sits
Camden, in Kershaw County—one of the oldest inland towns in South Carolina.
If you enjoy history and charm, this is your spot:
- Historic Camden Revolutionary War Site – Walk through reconstructed buildings and learn how the area played a role in the American Revolution.
- Downtown Camden – Antique shops, local cafés, and tree-lined streets.
- Equestrian culture – Camden is big on horses, with events and races throughout the year.
Camden has that small-town Southern feel:
- Friendly folks who actually say hello on the sidewalk
- Old homes with big porches
- Easy, stress-free parking
If you like a quieter road trip with plenty of character, Camden is a great choice.
6. Goodale State Park – Kayak Through a Cypress Forest (Kershaw County)
Just outside Camden, you’ll find
Goodale State Park, another gem in Kershaw County and an easy drive from Sumter.
What makes it special:
- A peaceful mill pond ringed with tall cypress trees
- Kayak and canoe trails that weave through the flooded forest
- Picnic areas and simple walking trails
Paddling through the cypress forest feels almost magical—quiet water, tall trees, and reflections everywhere. If you don’t have a kayak, check in advance for rental options or bring a friend who does.
Pack:
- A hat and sunscreen (shade can be spotty)
- Water shoes or sandals
- A dry bag for your phone and keys
This is a laid-back adventure that still feels like something special.
7. Florence: Shopping, Food, and a Little Culture (Florence County)
Head about 45 minutes to an hour east from Sumter and you’ll hit
Florence in Florence County. It’s a good choice when you want more options but not a huge city.
In Florence, you can:
- Browse downtown shops and local boutiques
- Catch a show at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center (check ahead for concerts and events)
- Enjoy a mix of Southern comfort food, pizza, and more modern restaurants
- Do some shopping at malls and big-box stores you won’t find in smaller towns
Florence is also a handy place to break up a longer trip to the beach. Spend the morning exploring, grab lunch, and then head back to Sumter in time for a relaxed evening.
8. Woods Bay State Park – A Quiet Swamp Adventure (Lee County)
If you’re okay with things being a little wild and a little muddy, drive about 30–40 minutes east to
Woods Bay State Park in Lee County.
This park protects a large
Carolina bay—a mysterious, oval-shaped wetland formation you see a lot in the Southeast.
At Woods Bay, you’ll find:
- A long boardwalk over the swamp, great for photos
- Nature trails through forest and wetland edges
- Plenty of chances to see turtles, birds, and maybe alligators
It’s not a fancy park, but that’s part of the charm. It feels wild and untouched. Just remember:
- Wear old shoes or boots if it’s been raining
- Bring bug spray (especially in warmer months)
- Carry water—services are limited
If you like the idea of exploring a real Southern swamp without a long drive, this is an excellent short trip from Sumter.
9. St. Matthews & Calhoun County Countryside
About an hour west of Sumter sits
St. Matthews, the small-town heart of Calhoun County. This trip is less about big attractions and more about enjoying rural South Carolina.
In and around St. Matthews, you can:
- Drive quiet country roads past farms and fields
- Stop by local produce stands in season for peaches, tomatoes, and more
- Explore the small downtown area and grab lunch at a local spot
Think of this road trip as a “slow day” escape. Sometimes it’s nice just to roll down the windows, turn up the music, and let the miles pass by under those big Carolina skies.
If you’re into photography, those farm fields and old barns can make for some great shots.
10. Congaree National Park Gateway Areas (Richland/Calhoun Line)
While the main part of
Congaree National Park is in Richland County, some of the surrounding access areas and backroads touch Calhoun County. From Sumter, it’s roughly an hour to reach the park region.
At or near the park, you can:
- Walk boardwalk trails through an old-growth floodplain forest
- See some of the tallest trees in the East
- Enjoy beginner-friendly hiking trails and ranger programs
While the park itself is a national site, the nearby countryside in Richland and Calhoun counties offers:
- Quiet picnic spots
- Small churches and historic cemeteries (for those who enjoy history and photography)
- Scenic drives, especially in spring and fall
If you’ve never walked through a forest where the trees feel as tall as skyscrapers, this is your chance—and it’s still an easy day trip from Sumter.
Tips for Planning Your Sumter Road Trips
To make the most of these
short road trips from Sumter, SC, keep a few basics in mind:
- Check hours and conditions – State parks, museums, and wildlife areas sometimes change hours seasonally.
- Pack a small day bag – Water, sunscreen, bug spray, a light jacket, and snacks go a long way.
- Keep gas in the tank – Some rural stretches in Lee, Calhoun, and Clarendon counties don’t have frequent stations.
- Watch the weather – Summer storms can roll in fast; plan outdoor time for mornings when you can.
Think of this list as a starting point. Once you’ve tried a couple of these trips, you’ll probably discover your own favorite backroads and hidden corners just outside Sumter County.
Share Your Favorite Road Trips from Sumter
Have you taken any of these
Sumter, South Carolina road trips?
Did I miss a great spot in Calhoun, Clarendon, Florence, Kershaw, Lee, or Richland County?
I’d love to hear:
- Which places you liked best
- Your go-to lakes, parks, or small towns near Sumter
- Any local food stops worth the drive
Drop a comment with your favorite short trip idea, and feel free to add tips I didn’t mention.
If you found this guide helpful,
share it with friends and family who are looking for easy, fun things to do near Sumter, SC. Your share might be the push they need to hop in the car and explore a new corner of South Carolina this weekend.
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