Table Rock State Park

Table Rock State Park is a state park and nature reserve in Pickens County, South Carolina, covering roughly 5 square miles (12 square kilometers). Situated at the base of Table Rock Mountain, the park includes dense forests, streams, waterfalls, and two lakes connected by a network of hiking trails.

During the 1930s, the Civilian Conservation Corps built cabins, lodges, and trails throughout the park as part of Depression-era employment programs. These structures were constructed using local materials and continue to define the park's appearance today.

The name Table Rock comes from the flat summit shape of the mountain, which early travelers compared to a tabletop. Hikers today use the trails leading to overlooks where they can take in views across the Blue Ridge landscape.

Hikers should bring sturdy footwear, as trails can be steep and rocky, especially on higher sections. The two lakes are located near the park entrance and are easily accessible, while more demanding routes lead deeper into the backcountry.

The granite dome of Table Rock Mountain rises roughly 2,000 feet (600 meters) above the valley floor, forming a natural landmark visible from great distances. Petroglyphs discovered in the late 1990s offer evidence of earlier use by indigenous peoples.