Goodale State Park, State park in Camden, South Carolina
Goodale State Park is a 763-acre preserve built around a 140-acre lake ringed by towering cypress trees. The water is accessible through roughly 3 miles of paddling routes that wind through undisturbed vegetation and wildlife habitat.
The central lake originated as a mill pond during the Civil War era and remained a local landmark for decades. In 1973, Kershaw County transformed the site into a state park open to the public.
The park carries the name of N.R. Goodale, a local plant enthusiast whose vision helped shape this outdoor space. Today, the connection between his legacy and the natural setting remains visible in how the grounds are maintained and used by the community.
Admission is free to everyone. Watercraft rentals including canoes and kayaks with equipment are available at the park office for those wanting to paddle the routes.
A nature trail called Big Pine Tree Creek features interpretive markers identifying native plant species found throughout the grounds. These labeled stations help visitors recognize local flora as they walk through the park.
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