Did you know that Andrew Jackson, 7th President of the United States and face (for now) of the $20 bill, grew up just down the road from Rock Hill in Lancaster, SC? September’s Rock Hill Coca-Cola Bottling Company Picnic Trip takes us to Andrew Jackson State Park, where you can find out all about it.
Directions
This trip might have the easiest directions yet. From Rock Hill take US-21 south. In just under half an hour, you’ll be there. With that proximity, you could spend just the morning, just the afternoon, or the whole day at Andrew Jackson State Park.
What to Do
Around the Water
If you enjoy fishing, you can venture out onto 18-acre lake’s fishing pier. Make sure your license is valid.
The Garden of the Waxhaws trail, a moderately difficult 1-mile loop, takes you to several fishing spots not located around the pier.
Non-motorized boats are allowed on the lake and are also available for rent.
Hiking and Biking
In addition to the Garden of the Waxhaws trail, you can also hike around the easy 1-mile loop Crawford Trail.
Non-motorized bikes are allowed on the trails.
History
The Andrew Jackson State Park Museum is filled with Revolutionary War artifacts and with items related to Andrew Jackson’s boyhood.
You can also tour the cemetery and the historic garden, populated with plants that were significant to that period in history.
Rare Flowers
If you visit Andrew Jackson State Park during the beginning of October, you’re likely to catch a glimpse of a rare flower. Schweinitz’s sunflower is a rare species that grows in only a few spots around the region. Early October is perfect both for a picnic day and a day of tracking down a rare flower.
Picnics and Playgrounds
Kids will enjoy the playground near the picnic shelters. The shelters can be reserved for special occasions. If they haven’t been reserved, they are available on a first-come basis. Break out the sandwiches and Coca-Cola products, keep an eye open for the Schweinitz’s sunflower, and enjoy your picnic trip.