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South Carolina
701

South Carolina State Parks

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USA Parks
South Carolina
Olde English Region
Landsford Canal State Park
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Landsford Canal State Park © Robert Immordino
Landsford Canal State Park Canal Walls © Henry Adrian Mills
Part of old canal system
Landsford Canal State Park © Henry Adrian Mills
Landsford Canal State Park © May Killebrew Vokaty
Landsford Canal State Park Great Blue © Robert Immordino
6/1/11
Landsford Canal State Park © May Killebrew Vokaty
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LANDSFORD CANAL STATE PARK
LANDSFORD CANAL STATE PARK
2051 Park DR
Catawba, South Carolina   29704

Phone: 803-789-5800
Reservations: 803-789-5800
Email: park email button icon
Landsford Canal, the best preserved of numerous 19th-century South Carolina river canals, retains remnants of all its major structural features. It is the uppermost of four canals constructed on the Catawba-Wateree river system from 1820-1835.

During this period, boats used the canals to bypass rapids while carrying goods to and from the coast.

This 460-acre park, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, includes historic ruins of canal-culverts, stone bridges, locks, an historic mill site and a lockkeeper?s house, which contains interpretive exhibits about the canal system in South Carolina.

Land's Ford also is associated with the Revolutionary War. Thomas Sumter's troops crossed here on their way to the Battle of Hanging Rock. And the main British army under Lord Cornwallis crossed the Catawba here in October 1780 when it fell back from Charlotte after the Battle of Kings Mountain.

In addition to its rich cultural history, Landsford Canal offers visitors an abundance of natural beauty.

The rocky shoals on the Catawba River are home to one of the world?s largest populations of rocky shoals spider lilies.

The park is located along the fall line of South Carolina.

This geological feature gives the Catawba River its elevation change, producing the shoals or rapids in the river.
Nature of the Area
This area is home to the largest population of the Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies in the world.

This large plant has adapted to live in a very harsh environment and puts on one of the greatest natural ?shows? on the east coast.

During their peak bloom from about mid-May to mid-June, these plants cover the river in a blanket of white.
Passes
South Carolina offers a variety of Park Passports. You can read more about the South Carolina Park Passports and order online by visiting the SOUTH CAROLINA PARK PASSPORTS web page.
FACILITIES AND ACTIVITIES OVERVIEW
Day-UseFishingyes
 Hiking Trailyes
 Swimming Beachyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingPrimitiveyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Fishing
Anglers can enjoy fishing in the Catawba River, home to species like catfish, bass and crappie. A valid South Carolina fishing license is required for all anglers over 16 years old. The park's river access allows both bank and boat fishing options. Fishing gear isn't provided so remember to bring your own equipment.


Location
Landsford Canal State Park is located near Fort Mill, Lancaster and Rock Hill

Picnicking
Landsford Canal State Park offers picnic tables and grills, perfect for family outings. Enjoy your meal amidst beautiful natural surroundings.
Bicycling
Biking is permitted on the park's designated trails, but caution should be exercised due to uneven terrain. The Canal Trail offers a 1.5-mile route suitable for casual biking; however, it can get crowded at times.

The Eagle Point Loop trail might prove challenging with its steep inclines and rocky paths - not recommended for novice bikers. Always wear protective gear when cycling in this area as accidents may occur.

Remember that all bike riders must respect wildlife habitats and adhere strictly to marked pathways only.
Birding
The park offers birding opportunities with over 150 species spotted, including warblers and bald eagles. Birdwatchers can explore the nature trail or canoe along Catawba River for different experiences. The best time to visit is during spring migration season.

Visitor Comments, Memories and Reviews
December 19 Major history of South Carolina by Anna from South Carolina
park review stars; one to five My dad used to take us on to this park several times a year. It is a location rich in southern and American history. Well worth a visit. Take along a picnic lunch and good walking shoes.
February 25 by Trish B.
park review stars; one to five Great park to make a day of it. We brought a picnic lunch to eat before hitting the trails. There are educational signs along the way that tell about the history of the canal. Bring your cameras and comfortable walking shoes. Really enjoyed it!
February 2 best photo down inside a historic canal by waxhawboyz
park review stars; one to five start at the south end...new trails..lillies
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Directions
General Directions: 15 miles west of Lancaster off US 21.

Driving Directions: From Charlotte: take I-77 exit 77 to Highway 5 & 21. Turn left (south), travel 16 miles to the Landsford Canal State Park sign and turn left. The park entrance is on the left. From Columbia: take I-77 north to exit 65 to Highway 9. Turn right and travel 2 miles to Highway 223. Turn left on Highway 223 and travel 9 miles to Highway 21. At Highway 21 turn left and travel 2 miles to the State Park sign. Turn right and the parks entrance is on the left.

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South Carolina
701

South Carolina State Parks

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