Forty-five minutes west of Greenville is Clemson, home not only to Clemson University but also to the South Carolina Botanical Garden. It’s a perfect day-trip destination, and the colorful spring foliage and cool temperatures will ensure a memorable visit to one of the premier gardens of the Upstate!
See our list of gardens near Greenville for even more beautiful outdoor areas to explore.
At just under 300 acres, the South Carolina Botanical Garden encompass everything from natural landscapes to display gardens, including miles of streams, nature trails, and the 70-acre Schoenike Arboretum. Home to over 300 varieties of camellias, the Garden has an extensive collection of hollies, hydrangeas, magnolias, and native plants. Although there are multiple points of access, the parking lot off Pearman Boulevard closest to the Heritage Garden will put you in the center of this gorgeous botanical treasure.
Cadet Life Garden
Upon entering, visitors will find themselves in the Cadet Life Garden, a nod to when Clemson was a military college. Over those 60 years (until 1956), 12,314 students graduated. Of those, nearly 10,000 became Reserve Officers, about 5,600 saw active military service, and 335 died or went missing in action while fighting for the country. This information comes from plaques in the garden.
Caboose Garden
After trying out one of the swings, follow the shaded pergola to the 1939 Caboose Garden. George Williams, Assistant Vice President and Treasurer of Southern Railway (as well as a graduate of the class of ’39), donated the caboose to Clemson. They painted it red and transported the caboose to its current spot. It’s now a perfect playground (and photo op!) for budding train enthusiasts.
See our list of places to find trains near Greenville for kids that like trains.
Children’s Garden
After meandering through the Heritage Garden, you’ll emerge near the Children’s Garden. With greenhouses, a “Food for Thought” Garden, and several other interesting spaces, kids will find plenty to explore. The Peter Rabbit Garden features a cute little playhouse, perfect for an imaginary afternoon tea.
Butterfly Garden
Adjacent is the Butterfly Garden. Here, you’ll find quite a few different species of butterflies fluttering about, attracted to the early spring blooms. The bog section has really cool pitcher plants. Let the kids check to see if they’re digesting any insects!
Duck Pond and Camellia Trail
A loop around Duck Pond on a nice wooded trail takes visitors to the Camellia Trail. Benches scattered here and there give visitors a chance to stop and rest, have a snack, and enjoy the view. Hopefully, you’ll spot some migrating waterfowl in addition to the frogs, lizards, turtles, and even snakes that call this area home.
Flower Display Garden
The Flower Display Garden is also on this end of the garden, and you should definitely stop in to see what’s blooming before taking one of the dozens of trails back to the Heritage Garden. If you continue past the parking area, you’ll come to Kelly Meadow and the Meadow Pond, a beautiful panorama with a forest backdrop.
In addition to a walk through the gardens, you might also be interested in the following attractions:
Fran Hanson Discovery Center & Gift Shop
On the very west end of the Gardens (past Kelly Meadow), is the Fran Hanson Discovery Center & Gift Shop. Built in 1998 as “The Wren House,” it was the first Southern Living Idea House. The second floor houses an art gallery that showcases local artists.
Campbell Geology Museum
The Campbell Geology Museum houses a collection of more than 10,000 minerals, rocks, and fossils. It’s a great activity for a rainy day. And admission is free! The museum is open Monday – Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm.
Cactus Gardens
The Cactus Gardens between the gift shop and the Geology Museum are interesting year-round, and the historical mining artifacts mixed in offer kids a fun game of “I Spy.”
Shoenike Arboretum
The Shoenike Arboretum honors the legacy of Dr. Schoenike, who during his career at Clemson, planted, cared for, and studied some 2,000 trees and shrubs in the arboretum.
Plan Your Own Trip to the SC Botanical Garden
There’s always something going on in the garden! From concerts to hikes, homeschool days to wreath-making, there is something for everyone. Check the event calendar for more information.
Truly a state treasure hidden away in a corner of the Upstate, the South Carolina Botanical Garden is a must-see destination for visitors and residents alike. Spring is a great time of year to visit, although autumn also brings cooler temperatures, fewer insects, and of course the colorful leaves. The gardens are in full bloom during the summer. Grab the kids and go explore. You’ll be see something new on each trip!
South Carolina Botanical Garden
150 Discovery Lane
Clemson, SC
Open daily, dawn to dusk
Admission is free!
What is your favorite spot in the Gardens?
Is the children’s garden and canopy walk open? Last time we went it was not. But, that was last year. I’d love to know.
I believe that the Children’s Garden and Tree House Ravine are open during normal operating hours, except under special circumstances – severe weather or possibly special events. You can always give them a call before you visit to double check. Thanks for asking!