South Carolina Opens 50th State Park on Black River

The Meadows at Black River becomes the state's newest natural attraction.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 7:26pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of green, blue, and grey, depicting the misty, serene banks of a river with a small boat or canoe in the distance, conveying the overwhelming scale and sublime beauty of the natural environment.The new Meadows at Black River state park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the tranquil natural beauty of South Carolina's waterways.Summerville Today

South Carolina is celebrating the opening of its 50th state park, The Meadows at Black River, which will provide public access and preservation for a stretch of the Black River. The new park marks a significant milestone in the state's efforts to protect natural lands and habitats.

Why it matters

The addition of The Meadows at Black River as South Carolina's 50th state park highlights the state's commitment to land conservation and expanding outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors. As development pressures increase, the preservation of this riverfront property ensures the public can continue to enjoy the area's natural beauty.

The details

The Meadows at Black River, located near Kingstree, South Carolina, will open to the public on Thursday. The new state park features hiking trails, picnic areas, and river access, allowing visitors to explore the Black River's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The 1,400-acre property was acquired through a partnership between the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism and the Pee Dee Land Trust.

  • The Meadows at Black River will open to the public on Thursday, April 3, 2026.

The players

South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism

The state agency responsible for managing South Carolina's network of 50 state parks, including the newly opened Meadows at Black River.

Pee Dee Land Trust

A non-profit organization that partnered with the state to acquire and preserve the land that became The Meadows at Black River state park.

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The takeaway

The opening of The Meadows at Black River as South Carolina's 50th state park demonstrates the state's ongoing commitment to protecting its natural resources and providing outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.