Sesquicentennial State Park 9564 Two Notch Rd Columbia Sc 29223

So, there I was, hiking through the woods, when I stumbled upon a spot that looked like it was straight out of a fairytale. The sun was filtering through the trees, casting dappled shadows on the forest floor, and I could've sworn I heard a whisper of laughter on the breeze. Little did I know, I'd just discovered Sesquicentennial State Park, a hidden gem tucked away in Columbia, South Carolina.

Now, I know what you're thinking, "Sesqui-what-now?" Yeah, I had the same reaction. But stick with me, because this place is worth more than just a tongue twister.

Unveiling the Enigma

Let's start with the name. Sesquicentennial, or 'sesqui' for short, is a fancy word for 150 years. You see, this park was established in 1976 to celebrate the U.S. bicentennial. Quite the birthday present, huh?

But enough about the name, let's talk about the park itself. Spread over 1,419 acres, it's a nature lover's paradise. With over 16 miles of trails, you can explore dense forests, cross bubbling streams, and even climb a 30-foot tower for a panoramic view of the park.

Nature's Playground

Speaking of views, the park's highest point, Mount Taylor, offers a stunning vista of the surrounding countryside. It's a bit of a climb, but trust me, the view is worth the huffing and puffing.

A few hours in Columbia, South Carolina | Julie Journeys

And if you're into wildlife, you're in luck. The park is home to a diverse range of creatures, from white-tailed deer and foxes to over 100 species of birds. Keep an eye out for the elusive pileated woodpecker - it's like the Woody Woodpecker of the real world!

More Than Meets the Eye

But Sesqui isn't just about the great outdoors. It's also got a rich history. The park sits on the site of the former Monticello Plantation, which was established in the late 18th century. You can still see remnants of the plantation's past, like the old slave quarters and the ruins of the plantation house.

There's also a museum on site, filled with artifacts that tell the story of the plantation and the park's creation. It's a fascinating look into the past, and a reminder of how far we've come.

SESQUICENTENNIAL STATE PARK - Updated May 2026 - 147 Photos & 63

Getting Involved

Now, you might be thinking, "This place sounds amazing, but I'm not exactly an outdoorsy type." Well, fear not! Sesqui offers a range of activities for all levels of adventurer.

For the more laid-back among us, there are picnic areas and a lake for fishing. And if you're feeling really adventurous, you can even camp overnight in the park's campgrounds.

But perhaps the best part about Sesquicentennial State Park is its accessibility. It's just a short drive from downtown Columbia, making it the perfect escape from the city hustle and bustle. So, next time you're in the area, why not give Sesqui a visit? Who knows, you might just stumble upon a fairytale of your own.