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Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park Makes for a Perfect Afternoon Out

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Are you looking for information about Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park? If you want to know all the reasons this is a great park for kids, you’ve come to the right place. Local mom, Erika, has reviewed all of Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park’s amenities and is sharing why it is one of her kids’ favorite parks. 

Now is the perfect time to enjoy the outdoors, and what better way to do that than to check out one of the wonderful parks that Spartanburg has to offer?

One park worth mentioning, and well worth the trip to Boiling Springs, is Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park, located at 591 McMillan Blvd. Whether you have never heard of it before, or just haven’t had a chance to make it out there, there are multiple reasons to add this park to your “to-do-with-the-kids” list.

Watch! See the New Playground at Va-Du-Mar

What’s so great about Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park?

How is the playground?  Great; but we’ll get to that part later. Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park offers a lot more than just a playground and a few swings. Seven different sports fields, with football goalposts and soccer goals, are located in this gem of a park, so bring your soccer ball along and let the kids run off some of their energy. The fields are well maintained with the grass kept short and fire ant mounds are sprayed frequently.

Inside the park, lies Shoally Creek Disc Golf Course. This 18-hole course sits on a “hilly” landscape, making it a bit more exciting, and most of the course is played through the woods. A course map is posted near the start, of course, giving you an idea of what to expect as you play. A wildlife sign is posted, so keep a lookout for the critters that call the woods home. The course is open during daylight hours and is free of charge, just be sure to bring your own discs.

If you’re a fan of Disc Golf, check out our list of more locations where you can play Disc Golf In Spartanburg.

Nestled in the back of the park, away from the noise of the playground, you will find a sand volleyball court, as well as a caged tennis court, with three courts located inside. You will also find a paved walking trail with “doggy bag” receptacles, so leashed pets are welcome on the trail.

Va-Du-Mar Mcmillan Park playgound toddlers

The playground is great too

What is a park without a playground? Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park offers a fenced-in, fun playground geared toward children ages two and up. Within the fenced-in area are two play structures: the smaller playground is designed for children age two to five and offers multiple height-appropriate slides, a steering wheel, a bridge, and multiple ways to climb onto the playground, such as stairs, an arched ladder, and a small ladder.

The playground is open underneath so your little one can run under it for added play space. With 6 swings total, two are kiddie swings for children four years old and under, two regular swings, and two swings for special needs, it’s not likely that your child will have to wait their turn for a swing!

The larger playground, geared toward children age five to 12, doesn’t lack space or fun! A large bridge connects two different parts of this awesome playground, and the bigger side includes a covered “treehouse-like” area.

Various slides, ranging from smaller ones with less of an incline to spiral slides that are high enough to include two spirals before you reach the bottom, sit on all sides of this playground. Multiple climbing walls, stepping stones, and staircases can turn this playground into a fun obstacle course, amongst other fun ways to enjoy it.

Neither of the playgrounds is made of wood, so no need to worry about pulling any splinters out at the end of the day. The ground of the playground area is rubber, so there’s soft padding when your child lands at the bottom of a slide.

Va-Du-Mar Mcmillan Park playgound swings

What else makes this park great?

Convenient options can make or break a park for parents, and Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park does not fall short in this category. Some of the most dreaded words a parent wants to hear 10 minutes after arriving at the playground are “I have to go potty!” only to realize that the closest bathrooms are all the way back home. This park has a men and women’s bathroom, located near the tennis courts, with multiple stalls and a changing table; and more importantly, these bathrooms are kept clean!

There are several benches throughout the playground area for parents to sit and relax while their children play. Shaded areas with picnic tables are easily accessible, so you can pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic with your family.

The playground area is fenced in, reducing the worry of your child running into the parking lot. Trash cans are situated throughout the park for your convenience and are frequently emptied to keep bugs away. Beverage vending machines are located near the fields closer to the park entrance, as well as a concession stand that is open during organized sporting events.

As with any public park, there are rules set in place for the safety of everyone.  Glass containers are not allowed, so keep that in mind if you decide to pack a lunch.  While leashed pets are allowed in certain areas of the park, they are not allowed in the fenced playground area; however, service animals are allowed in all areas of the park.

Va-Du-Mar Mcmillan Park playgound slide

The park is open 7 days a week 7 am – 9 pm year round.

You can view the full list of Spartanburg Parks rules here.

Do your kids love Va-Du-Mar McMillan Park as much as mine do?

parks and playgrounds spartanburg greenville

Want to explore other parks? Here’s a round-up of the best parks and playgrounds near Spartanburg, SC and Greenville, SC.

Play, Fish, and Boat at Anchor Park on Lake Bowen: The Largest Lake in Spartanburg County

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Inside: A real parent review of Anchor Park at Lake Bowen in Spartanburg, SC. Learn about the playground, water access, boating, and other amenities.


Anchor Park at Lake Bowen

Looking for a family-friendly lake near Spartanburg where kids can play and parents can relax?

Anchor Park at Lake Bowen in Inman, SC offers a fully fenced playground, shady picnic spots, and easy access to water activities like fishing, kayaking, and boating—all in one scenic location. Read on for everything you need to know about what this great park has to offer!

For more ideas on outdoor activities this summer, check out our list of Things to do Outside in Spartanburg, SC!

About Lake Bowen

Lake Bowen is the largest lake in Spartanburg County, covering over 1,500 acres with approximately 33 miles of shoreline. It is managed by Spartanburg Water as a scenic reservoir which families can enjoy. Anchor Park is a fantastic place to do just that, with ample parking, playgrounds and picnic shelters, multiple ways to access Lake Bowen, and the Lake Bowen Warden’s Office.

Image shows Anchor Park sculpture, sign, playgrounds, and picnic pavilion.

Anchor Park Playground

Anchor Park offers some of the best playgrounds in Inman. It is fully fenced all the way around with gates on each side for easy access in and out. There are two different play structures, one for little kids and one for bigger kids, plus a swing set and a few different options for sensory play.

Image shows the central picnic shelter at Anchor Park.

One picnic shelter sits between the two play structures, allowing parents to easily supervise both, and another picnic shelter sits a little farther up the hill, giving a great view of the entire play area. There are a few benches around the park for additional seating, and a paved path loops around it, too, for those who want to walk, bring bicycles or tricycles, or even color with sidewalk chalk.

Men’s and women’s restrooms are conveniently located right outside the fenced play area, and there are trees scattered throughout offering some shady spots where you can get out of the heat. Plus, there is just no beating the incredible wraparound view of Lake Bowen. You’ll be able to observe all the wildlife and water sports right from the shores of the park!

Image shows fishing pier over Lake Bowen.

Fishing on Lake Bowen

Anchor Park is the ideal place to access Lake Bowen for water sports. Whether you’re interested in fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, or boating, you’re going to find a way to do it right here.

The entire shoreline is perfect for fishing. You can stand right on the rocks and drop your line in the water, take advantage of the two dedicated fishing piers, or even climb down onto a small muddy shoreline when the water level is low enough. Because the lake wraps around the park, it’s not hard to find spots in full sun or partial shade at any time of day, either.

Just remember to purchase a fishing license in advance of your visit for any anglers ages 16 years or older! Fishing licenses are not required for freshwater fishing in South Carolina on Memorial Day or Independence Day. Magnet fishing is always prohibited under South Carolina state law.

Image shows watercraft on Lake Bowen from shores of Anchor Park.

Water Sports on Lake Bowen

If you want to get out on the water, this is definitely the place to do it! We’ve seen jet skis, tubing, pontoon boats, and more come on and off the water around Anchor Park.

There is a special access point for paddlecraft, or non-powered watercraft, to enter and exit the lake if you follow the road to the right around the park and playground. There are also two boat ramps across the parking lot if you drive towards the left as you enter the park.

Image shows dock and launch for non-powered watercraft, otherwise known as paddelcraft.

Spartanburg Water requires watercraft permits for both powered and non-powered vessels on Lake Bowen. Permits start at $25 for non-powered vessels and go up from there, with lower prices for locals and highest prices for out-of-state visitors. Permits are only available at the Warden’s Office, so be sure to call in advance at 864.592.2240. Office hours are posted, but exact hours vary as the warden comes and goes.

Boat registration with South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is also required for any watercraft not relying on human power. This means that paddlecraft such as canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards are exempt, but motorized boats will need to be registered. Boat registration starts at about $20 and can be done online.

Image shows a large sign with a few life jackets hanging under it, which can be borrowed by visitors at Anchor Park.

Life jackets are required under South Carolina state law for all children under 12 years old. A limited number of life jackets are available to borrow near the non-powered watercraft dock, but it’s a good idea to bring your own in case these run out.

Visit Lake Bowen

Park Hours: 6 am-midnight
Restroom Hours: 6:30 am-7 pm
Watercraft Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Warden Office Hours: 7:30 am-6 pm, 7 days a week

📍 Address: 8515 Highway 9, Inman, SC 29349
📞 Phone: 864.592.2240
🔗 Lake Bowen Website

What’s your family’s favorite thing to do at Lake Bowen?

RELATED: Renting a Boat on Lake Cooley Needs to be on Your Summer Bucket List

Five Playgrounds in Spartanburg, SC Your Kids Will Beg Not to Leave

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Ready to get outside and play? These playgrounds in Spartanburg, SC are perfect for playtime! You’ve read about the wonderful playgrounds that Spartanburg and the surrounding area have, but after a long winter of planning indoor activities, here is a reminder of some of the best playgrounds in Spartanburg you can revisit, or check out for the first time.

5 excellent playgrounds in Spartanburg, South Carolina
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Movies, Arcade Games, Bowling, and More at The Big E: Gaffney, SC

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Have you visited the awesome indoor entertainment complex, The Big E, in Gaffney, SC? We sent Local mom Rebecca Parrish for a fun day with her family! She shares what her family loves about The Big E in Gaffney, SC and all of the activities you will find there.

The Big E in Gaffney, South Carolina

What You’ll Find at The Big E: Gaffney, SC

Our family took a quick 45 minute road trip north on I-85 to exit 90 to visit Gaffney, South Carolina. Nestled next to the Gaffney Outlet Marketplace (A Simon Center), locally known as the “yellow mall”, The Big E in Gaffney, SC is an entertainment center promising fun for every age. It is a great place to spend the day and enjoy new experiences with your child, or a spot for birthday party joy.

The Movie Theatre

The Big E Gaffney features eight (8) movie theatres screening wide-release new blockbuster movies. They strictly enforce rating policies for ticketing. The theater is comfortable and has a high quality sound system, digital projection, and stadium style seating. You can purchase tickets ahead of time through The Big E online theatre portal, where you will find showtimes, movie ratings, and run times for each moving showing. Ticket prices run from $$8.25 – $10.25, which is slightly more affordable than some other movie theatre chains.

A Bowling Alley

The Big E also has a large bowling alley with 16 lanes where they feature open bowling ($5 per person plus $3.00 per person for shoes) and cosmic bowling ($6 per person) on weekends. You can choose to rent a lane by game or by the hour. Big E has mixed and youth leagues, and they participate in the Kids Bowl Free program in the spring and summer.

The bowling area also has flat-screen TVs and an area for food and beverages. The concessions include a variety of snacks and fries, pizza, wings, and “plates” like chicken tenders and hot dogs/corn dogs.

Bowling at The Big E in Gaffney, South Carolina

Playland Indoor Playground

Younger children will love the indoor playland which involves climbing up levels, over rope bridges, on swings, and down slides. They even have a Ballocity Blast Center, where hundreds of foam balls are propelled out of mini air cannons. The playland is padded, which is always a plus. Parents are welcome to hang out in the cafe area located nearby while their children play. The cost is $7 per child for an unlimited day pass. Be sure to bring socks, but they do have them for $3.00 in case you need to purchase a pair.

The Arcade

The playland shares space with the 60 game arcade area, which houses lots of arcade games (including old favorites like Skee Ball to high-tech games like a Star Wars simulator), and the bumper cars (my personal favorite). Don’t leave the Big E without taking a spin on these spinning, neon-round cars.

The best part about playing is the ease of it; the Big E Gaffney sells a “ Big E Fun Card” that parents can load with an amount of money. This card is used at each of the attractions and the arcade, so rather than keeping up with dollars and loose change, kids or adults just use the card. We found this so simple and a lesson for our child about making smart choices about what he wanted to try. They often run promotions for Fun Cards, which is a good way to get extra bang for your buck!

Bumper cars at The Big E in Gaffney, South Carolina

Laser Tag

By far, our favorite part of our Big E adventure was Laser Tag. For $8 per person, you get an amazing, action-packed game lasting about 10-15 minutes. Individuals are suited up with high-tech vests that react with vibrations and sound, and laser guns (called phasers) that you reload as you play on the multi-level course with teammates. Black lights, glowing barriers, fog, and music add to the excitement; and spectators can watch the action on a screen outside the arena. At the end of the match, points are tallied and a winner is revealed. My son is still buzzing from his victory!

Mini Golf and Zip Line

Outside, the complex includes an adventure mini golf course and a challenging zip line. The day we ventured out, it was too cold and windy to try these. However, the area looked fun for a future warm day when we have some funds for fun!

Host Your Birthday Party at The Big E: Gaffney, SC

Having a birthday party at The Big E would make a epic memory for you kids. You can have a Mini Golf Party, Playland Party, Movie Party, or a Bowling Party. You can even add on laser tag. Parties for up to 10 guests cost around $205. You’ll get access to one attraction, pizza, drinks, ice cream, and arcade cards. You’ll also get a party host to make everything go seamlessly.

Plan Your Trip to The Big E: Gaffney, South Carolina

The Big E Gaffney
1100 Factory Shops Blvd.
Gaffney, SC 29341
864.489.1515
Hours vary by day and by attraction.

Does a family outing to The Big E Gaffney sound perfect for your crew?

Meet Rebecca Parrish
Rebecca Raulerson Parrish is a former English teacher turned non-profit administrator who currently works with Women Giving for Spartanburg and Five Twenty Consulting. She serves on the board of the Spartanburg Little Theatre and is proudly balancing books as Treasurer for the Jesse Boyd Elementary PTSO. A native of Lakeland, Florida, Rebecca loves living in Spartanburg, where she enjoys lots of adventures (and four seasons) with her husband, nine-year-old son, dog, bird and three pet chickens.
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