Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips.
Our listing of South Carolina field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a South Carolina field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.
Hitchcock WoodsAiken
Once privately owned and enjoyed exclusively by Aiken's storied winter colony set, Hitchcock Woods is now owned by the Hitchcock Woods Foundation, a nonprofit organization that makes the Woods available to the community. This nearly 2,100-acre longleaf pine forest has 65 miles of marked trails available to hikers, runners, equestrians, and carriage drivers. The Woods are home to the rustic Aiken Horse Show in late March and early April, one of the oldest annual horse shows in the country.
Kings Mountain National Military ParkBlacksburg
Thomas Jefferson called it "The turn of the tide of success." The battle of Kings Mountain, fought on October 7th, 1780, was an important American victory during the Revolutionary War. The battle was the first major patriot victory to occur after the British invasion of Charleston, SC, in May 1780. The park preserves the site of this important battle. Primary facilities in the visitor center are a thirty-minute live-action theater film, a museum combining informative text with weaponry, and a bookstore (operated by Eastern National) offering visitors publications and theme-related items for sale on the battle and the Revolutionary War. Bookstore hours are the same as the visitor center. Plan on spending at least 2.5 hours to take in all the history the park has to offer.
Camp DiscoveryBlythewood
Camp Discovery’s school field studies are designed to engage and inspire through discovery in science and nature and align with SC Science Standards. We offer a variety of outdoor education programs designed to provide students with opportunities to explore local habitats, engage in hands-on learning, become citizen scientists with the NASA GLOBE (Global Learning and Observation to Benefit the Environment) Program, and develop a deeper understanding of environmental concepts. *Cost Student cost for a field study is $25. The Low Ropes Challenge Quest Program is $35. Teachers and chaperones are free. *Days/Times Field studies are offered weekdays from 9 am to 11:30 am. Times can be slightly adjusted as needed. Classes may stay for a picnic lunch after the program. If you would prefer a longer field study, please contact us to discuss options. *Group Size Camp Discovery requires a minimum of 20 students to book a field study (homeschool groups have a minimum requirement of 10 students). We can accommodate groups up to 45. Groups over 45 will need to schedule for multiple days. To schedule, sign up on our website at www.campdiscoverysc.org or contact us at 803-754-2008 or contactus@campdiscoverysc.org.
12,000 Year History ParkCayce
The 12,000 Year History Park is located across the Congaree River from Columbia. In this park a lot of history was made. We offer several free guided walking tours. One is to the site of a 1718 Colonial Fort built with the participation of the Cherokee. Also in the park is the site of a Civil War battle, The Battle of Congaree Creek, where Sherman's troops met those under the command of Wade Hampton III. The only remaining earthworks for the 1865 battle are within the park. We also have guides that will talk about life as a native, both before and after the English arrived. Most tours are about 2 hours, and depending on the tour, the walk can be up to 2 miles on level, mostly shaded cement sidewalks.
Gibbes Museum of ArtCharleston
The Gibbes Museum of Art exists to link the art of our past with the art of our future through innovative exhibitions, acquisitions, interpretation and educational programs that preserve and promote the art of Charleston and the American South.
Magnolia Plantation and GardensCharleston
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens is a fun and educational field trip! Learn about this historic property and its role in the Revolutionary and Civil War, get some cool animal sightings on our nature train tour, tour cabins restored to different time periods of those who were enslaved on property, or get up close and personal with the rescue animals at Magnolia! In addition to field trip visits, we also offer education classes for groups of up to 30 on topics like science, history and ecology at different times of the year. Don't miss this low-country gem for your next field trip. Special group pricing available for our homeschool families!
The Powder MagazineCharleston
Completed by 1713, The Powder Magazine is the oldest governmental building in South Carolina. This facility was used as an arsenal from 1713 - 1748 to defend the colony from the Spanish, French, pirates, slave rebellion and native attacks. It was then temporarily reinstated by the Continental Army during the American Revolution. Now a colonial military history museum, The Powder Magazine is available every day for general admission and school groups of all ages! School programs are available to meet South Carolina standards.
James Island County Park & Splash Zone WaterparkCharleston
This 643-acre park offers recreational opportunities from tidal creek fishing to trails for walking, biking and skating. The 50-foot tall Climbing Wall facility features more than 4,500 square feet of climbing space and up to 14 top ropes available for climbing. The Splash Zone Waterpark offers two 200-ft tube slides, a 500 ft lazy river, a leisure pool and a Caribbean play structure. A campground, picnic center with shelters, vacation cabins, meeting facilities, and boat and bike rentals are other amenities.
Craft & CanvasCharleston
We offer art experiences for homeschooled children. Craft & Canvas is suitable for a one-time outing or can be scheduled for recurring art classes. Recurring classes allow for an art curriculum to be offered or larger projects to be explored. One-time field trips allow children aged 5 - 17 to complete a project in 1- 2.5 hours. These projects vary from canvas painting, ceramic painting, wood painting, glass painting, papier-mache, wood burning, fabric weaving with different materials, and more. Recurring classes allow us to explore line, form, color, 2D and 3D pieces, and more. Email us at charlestoncraftandcanvas@gmail.com or call 843-801-8960.
Carowinds Student and Youth ProgramCharlotte, NC
Whether it’s for a reward, end-of-year celebration, or educational experience, Carowinds provides the perfect adventure for your students. The Carolinas come together with the park residing in both North & South Carolina! Take your lesson plan on the road and show how your lessons apply to the world around us. Come enjoy a variety of Educational opportunities during the spring programming days, splash and play in Carolina Harbor waterpark and ride the Copperhead Strike coaster all summer, have a frighteningly good time during Scarowinds event in October, or visit the park during Winterfest when they transform the park into a Winter Wonderland! Teachers are also welcome to download an online curriculum to create a corresponding lesson plan for their students. Tickets may be purchased by mail, email, or fax. Confirmation of homeschooling is required for eligibility.
Dizzy Gillespie Birthplace ParkCheraw
This park marks the site of jazz great Dizzy Gillespie's birthplace in Cheraw. The park includes a historical marker on his life and features sculpture and park benches that symbolize his life. The park is open from dawn to dusk. There is also a statue of Gillespie on the Cheraw Town Green on Market Street.
Cowpens National BattlefieldChesnee
The Only Double Envelopment in the American Revolution - A pasturing area at the time of the battle, this Revolutionary War site commemorates the place where Daniel Morgan and his army turned the flanks of Banastre Tarleton's British army. This classic military tactic, known as a double envelopment, was one of only a few in history.
Brooks Center for the Performing ArtsClemson
Annually, the Brooks Center presents nearly 20 interactive morning performances by world-renowned musicians, singers, theater companies, and Clemson student ensembles on the Bill and Donna Eskridge Tri-ART Series. Students, ages 3-18, from public, private, and home schools in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia experience both entertaining and inspiring presentations.
South Carolina Botanical GardenClemson
The SCBG is a 300-acre free public garden which includes ponds, streams, woods, a butterfly garden, and Natural Heritage Garden (a reconstruction of all the habitats of SC from the mountains to the sea). We offer hour-long guided programs for all ages. The cost is $4 per student - we can tailor your visit to the grade level of your group. We are experienced in giving tours to homeschool groups. Programs include, but are not limited to, plant parts, plants and their animal partners, and ecology.
SC Military MuseumColumbia
The South Carolina Military Museum is located in Columbia, SC and its mission is to preserve the legacy of the State's military history and heritage from the Colonial era to the present day. When partnering with the South Carolina Military Museum, teachers and students can explore a wide variety of subjects ranging from the Revolutionary War to the science involved in jet engines. Working off of your lesson plans, we can customize free group tours to reinforce classroom curriculum and bring history to life. When scheduling a tour, please limit groups to three classrooms per visit.
Palmetto Falls Water ParkColumbia
Palmetto Falls Water Park, located on Fort Jackson, features a 10,000-square foot main pool, lazy river, large corkscrew water slide, two large speed-slides, two small speed-slides for the children's activity pool, a toddler pool and a four-lane lap pool. A snack bar is also onsite. Palmetto Falls Water Park is open to the public Wednesday-Sunday. Children younger than 6th grade must have an adult present. Driver's license, registration and proof of insurance are required to enter Fort Jackson.
The Township AuditoriumColumbia
Come watch Ann Brodie’s Carolina Ballet perform The Nutcracker at the Township Auditorium in Columbia, SC. This family-friendly full-length ballet also features a live orchestra and live choir. Each year, we are proud to offer one show to homeschool families at a discounted rate. You can save 50% off ticket prices when reserving tickets by calling 803-771-6303. Tickets will be $10 each.
Liberty Lane Walk Of FameDarlington
This beautiful outdoor area houses the Winston Walk of Fame, honoring NASCAR stock car drivers who have won at Darlington Raceway. Visitors can compare their hands with those of NASCAR greats like as Neil Bonnett, Dale Earnhardt, Bill Elliott, Harry Gant and Richard Petty who have left their handprints in the cement of the Lane.
Historic Georgetown Food TourGeorgetown
Learn about the history of Georgetown and coastal South Carolina. Tour will visit 2 small museum and dine at 3 restaurants, during this 3.5-hour guided tour. The tour is best suited for students age 10 and up. Although it is a walking tour, it is a very short walk along Front Street. Student price is $49, Parent price $55. Includes all food and stops. This special pricing is not available on the website. For more information or to reserve your tour, email info@carolinafoodtours.com.
Cleveland Park in GreenvilleGreenville
Cleveland Park is the site of the Fernwood Nature Trail, the Vietnam Veteran's Memorial, and the Greenville Zoo.
Tales on the Town Scavenger HuntHartsville
Tales on the Town is a downtown scavenger hunt which celebrates Hartsville's art, history, education and economic development. After traveling the world, Hart Fox decided to settle down in her favorite place, a small town called Hartsville. She saw that Hartsville is kind and compassionate-a perfect place to raise her thirteen pups. Mama Fox, as her pups call her, watches over her little foxes as they play and scamper in town. However, those mischievous pups love to play hide and seek. Can you help her find all thirteen little foxes hidden in plain sight?
Stars and StrikesIrmo
Stars and Strikes of Irmo is a family orientated entertainment complex for all ages. Offering bowling, arcade, laser tag, bumper cars, a full restaurant and snack bar. Host birthday parties and have meeting space that can be catered to your group needs. We are a proud host of bowling leagues and team building activities that can be great learning opportunities for any and all ages.
St. Christopher Camp & Conference CenterJohns Island
The Barrier Island Environmental Education Program offers over 25 different classes and activities to meet the needs of your students. They are divided into one-hour, two-hour, and evening activity offerings.
Angel OakJohns Island
This is considered to be the largest Live Oak Tree east of the Mississippi, estimated to be 300 to 400 years old. Angel Oak is more than 65 feet high with a circumference of 25.5 feet; it provides more than 17,000 square feet of shade; the largest limb measures 11.25 feet in circumference, stretching 89 feet in length. Angel Oak acquired its name from the Angel family, descendants of Abraham Waight, the land's original owner. The park is closed holidays. Admission to the general public is free but donations are gladly accepted to help in the preservation of the tree for future generations to enjoy.
Playcard Environmental Education CenterLoris
Playcard Environmental Education Center offers on-site and virtual field trips for all ages on topics in the natural sciences, wildlife, fisheries, Native American and pioneer history, outdoor skills, and adventure-based curricula. The site has 200 acres of interactive learning trails, a ropes challenge course, overnight adventure camps, special events, and kayaking/fishing by appointment. Small Use of Facility fee.
Old Santee Canal ParkMoncks Corner
Opened in 1800, the Santee Canal was the first true canal built in America. Four miles of boardwalks and trails provide an up-close view of the park's natural beauty and wildlife. Canoe rentals are available to explore Biggin Creek and the southern terminus of the Santee Canal. The Interpretive Center houses exhibits on the cultural and natural history found on the historic Stony Landing Plantation. A 19th-century plantation house and picnic facilities are on site. Also at the park is the Berkeley Museum, which records county history. Special programs and events are held throughout the year.
Palmetto Islands County Park & Splash Island WaterparkMount Pleasant
This 943-acre nature-oriented park is built in a tropical setting with bike paths, boardwalks, picnic sites, fishing and crabbing docks, nature trails and a big toy playground. Pedal boat and bike rentals available. The Splash Island Waterpark is open seasonally and offers a thrilling 200-ft. slide, a 16-ft. otter slide, sprays, waterfalls, geysers and the Cyclone water ride.
Palmetto Islands County Park & Splash Island Waterpark website
Ninety Six National Historic SiteNinety Six
Here settlers struggled against the harsh backcountry to survive, Cherokee Indians hunted and fought to keep their land, two towns and a trading post were formed and abandoned to the elements, and two Revolutionary War battles that claimed over 100 lives took place here. Come discover the 18th century history of South Carolina.
Horne Wetland Park & Edisto Memorial GardensOrangeburg
The Gardens boasts 5 acres of azaleas, and around 4,800 rose plants representing over 120 labeled varieties. In addition to roses and azaleas, the Horne Wetland Park allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Edisto River. The 2,600-foot boardwalk guides visitors through a typical Tupelo-Cypress wetland. Edisto Memorial Gardens also features a butterfly garden, a serenity garden, a sensory garden, and a stunning terrace garden located on the back of the Arts Center. Admission is free and the Gardens are open seven days a week from dawn to dusk. The Gardens' peak spring bloom typically occurs from March 15 to April 15, with roses continuing to bloom until the first frost in November.
Hagood Mill Historic SitePickens
The Hagood Mill Historic Site offers a variety of educational field trip opportunities for all ages, preK-12. Our site features an 1845 grist mill and prehistoric petroglyphs protected in a museum with Native American art and artifacts. Custom design you field trip and choose from an array of subject matter: tour the historic mill, tour the petroglyph site, explore "Our Native Roots, An Interpretive Trail", blacksmith shop, hearthside cooking, pottery, early American artifacts, archaeology and fiber arts. Visit our website for more info, costs and to complete a field trip inquiry form!
Carolina Pride PasturesPomaria
Carolina Pride Pastures is a huacaya alpaca farm. Students visiting will experience a new outdoor adventure, have fun, and learn all at the same time. During the life science presentation, students will explore the history of alpacas in the United States, the camelid family, how fleece is made into yarn, how yarn produces clothing and other items, and much more. Basic field trips start at $7 per student and include a tour of the farm, tons of picture opportunities with the alpacas, and a short educational presentation. Leaders have a choice of a take home booklet for each student or materials to take back to the classroom to make everyone their own alpaca. Field trips can be customized to include alpaca crafts, a comprehensive educational presentation, and more.
Historic Rock Hill at the White HomeRock Hill
Built in 1839 in the historic East Town District, the White Home, located at 258 East White Street, was one of the first homes constructed in Rock Hill, South Carolina. Through exhibits and programs, the story of a family that was instrumental in the birth and development of Rock Hill is told. Offering guided educational tours for groups of all ages as well as a guided walking tour of downtown Rock Hill.
Eudora Wildlife Safari ParkSalley
We offer group field trips for schools, churches and any other groups. These trips come with a wagon ride through our safari with a tour guide and one bucket of feed per person. The Safari Wagon Tour takes about 1 hour and the Walk Thru Safari takes about 30 minutes. Picnic tables for lunch are available at our giraffe exhibit.
Discovery Island WaterparkSimpsonville
Greenville County's splashtacular waterpark features an interactive play structure, a lazy river, body slide,tube slide, a leisure pool area, splash play area with slides, geysers and more.
Charles Pinckney National Historic SiteSullivan's Island
Charles Pinckney was a principal author and signer of the United States Constitution and went on to be a political leader in South Carolina for over 40 years. The park preserves Snee Farm, one of his plantation properties, where visitors can learn about the politician's influences on Charleston, the African people he enslaved, plantation operations, and the legacy of Pinckney's life.
Fort Sumter National MonumentSullivan's Island
Where The American Civil War Began. On April 12, 1861, Confederate artillery opened fire on this Federal fort in Charleston Harbor. Fort Sumter surrendered 34 hours later. Union forces would try for nearly four years to take it back. Fort Sumter is located on an island in Charleston harbor and is only accessible by boat. The website offers two brochures to download: Slavery: Cause and Catalyst of the Civil War, and Hispanics and the Civil War.
The Logos TheatreTaylors
The Logos is a family-friendly theatre that is located in Taylors, SC. Mostly known for their performances of C.S Lewis' The Chronicles of Narnia, they also perform musicals and historical plays throughout the year. You won't want to miss what this season has to offer! Call now for more information and how you can bring your homeschool group for our special tour and show deal!
Anchored Oak Adventure FarmTravelers Rest
Our field trips are designed to be both fun and informative, providing students with the opportunity to learn about agriculture, animals, nature, and the environment while enjoying a hands-on, interactive experience. All field trip groups will enjoy introductions and tours of all our farm animals, including goats, chickens, pigs, turkeys, rabbits, ducks, donkeys, and a horse. All groups will also enjoy a brief hike through our nature trail, free play in our fields, a visit to our gift shop, and access to our picnic tables for enjoying a packed lunch. An agriculture educational seminar will be included to make your field trip both informative and entertaining.
Carolina Adventure WorldWinnsboro
Welcome to Carolina Adventure World – the Southeast’s Largest Outdoor Playground. Spend hours riding the trails, get covered at the mud bog, or hit the oval track. The choice is yours, and there are so many to make! Our fun family-friendly park offers 120+ miles of ATV, UTV, and dirt bike trails covering 2,600 acres. Rent a cabin or the yurt with some friends or family, or bring your camper and enjoy one of our RV sites (featuring both water and power hookups. You can leave the entertainment up to us with action-packed events and live music scheduled year-round.
