Archive for the ‘Fall’ Category

Get Ready to Be Terrified at Madworld Haunted Attraction in Greenville, SC

Ready for a scare-your-pants-off kind of haunted attraction? We visited Madworld Haunted Attraction in Greenville, SC and had a terrifyingly fun time. Thanks to Madworld for inviting us to experience their terrifying attraction so we could scare our readers in this review.

Love haunted houses, insane asylums, terrifying clowns, and all things Halloween? Then you’ll want to visit one of the country’s scariest haunted attractions at Madworld Haunted Attraction right here in Greenville, SC.

We’ll tell you all about how this place started, the terrifying things you’ll encounter, how scary Madworld really is, and how to experience the best of the Halloween season at Madworld.

Check it out!
Spooky Mini-Golf at Madworld

About Madworld Haunted Attraction

Madworld is owned and run by two brothers, Joe and Tim Thompson, and 2025 is their 15th season of the haunted attraction. They’ve always loved horror and all things scary so producing and creating Madworld was a natural fit for both of them.

The haunted attraction has won accolades nationwide and is ranked as one of the scariest attractions in South Carolina. This is a pretty serious haunted attraction which Joe and Tim have built with the guest experience in mind. There are about 200 actors on any given night looking to terrify guests with their very real-looking getups and acting skills that have been honed for this place and their goal to give guests a memorable – and nightmare-worthy – experience.

We got a peek at some of the behind-the-scenes magic and the amount of work that goes into the makeup and costumes of each character is stunning. There are silicon masks, rows of makeup chairs, prosthetics, weapons that look real. The team is serious about the appearance of each character and makes sure to make them look as real as possible. Actors have to go through rounds of auditions to work at Madworld.

But that’s not all. Madworld has a quality control manager whose job is basically go through the entire park several times a night and make sure every character is acting their part to a tee. If not, well, I don’t even want to know. The guy who does this is very serious about his job.

All the Details about the Haunted Trail

The biggest part of Madworld is their nearly half-mile haunted trail through a zombie factory and into a world of all kinds of things that scare us humans.

Joe and Tim told us that they wanted to hit on a variety of things and scenarios that scare people as to make sure they are able to hit all phobias. That is quite obvious once you start walking through the haunted trail, which seemingly never ends.

The zombie factory starts off your tour after your photo is snapped by the Madworld staff to remember you by. OK, well, not really. You can purchase it afterwards at the customer service desk. Each group is ushered in separately so there may be a bit of a wait (get the Fast Pass – you’ll save a lot of time). There are green glowing lights and you feel like you’re in a prison. Loud noises are all around you and the actors try to reach for you from their jail cell. It’s awesome.

Once you get instructions about not running through any of the attractions from the creepy host, you’ll enter into the official part of the haunted trail. There are 13 sets/haunted houses and once you leave one, you’ll walk outside and enter into the next one. There are characters everywhere that either will jump out at you or show up in the shadows or just act completely terrifying.

After the zombie factory, I can’t even remember what is next because there are so many. I’ll tell you the things that stood out to me in the various places.

First, this wasn’t even me but Bethany and her husband were behind me and passed a writhing girl on the floor, who they thought was me. You can imagine their terror. Thankfully, I was just ahead of them getting scared out of my mind by an exorcist-type girl on a moving bed who was crawling towards me.

The clown house obviously involved a lot of clowns. But it also involved a lot of flashing lights, strobes, and creepy laughs. This is one the warnings they give you when you buy your tickets.

The pirate house was my favorite because the characters were entirely convincing but also because they had a part where it seemed that you were going to fall into water where a giant gator was going to eat you. Towards the end of the pirate house, you have to walk through a room where you can’t see the floor – so cool.

The insane asylum was just that: insane. Lots of patients screaming to let them out plus a room full of old toilets that had me convinced this was a real insane asylum. It was intense.

One part that was outdoors had a crazed guy lighting up propane with actors with chainsaws hacking up people. One bloody person was dragged in front of me by a dude with a chainsaw and I’m still not sure if it was a real person or not.

A witch nearly scared me to death when she popped out of her shack. And I really didn’t want to walk through the house with the label of “bless this house” on the door. No, thanks. But I did and it was haunting.

From the time we entered the zombie factory to when we exited the haunted trail was about 25-30 minutes. It felt longer. There is a lot of blood, gore, and screaming at Madworld.

Ghost Mini Golf & Carnival Games

While Madworld is probably most well-known for their intensely scary haunted trail, they have a lot of other things to do while you’re there that won’t involve straining your vocal chords.

They have an entire mini golf course, several different carnival games, and my favorite – ax throwing. None of these things are terrifying so if your kids want to go someplace “scary” but you know they aren’t ready for the full experience, you can take them here to do ghost mini golf and throw some balls at clowns. Then they can tell their friends they went to Madworld.

Tasty Treats at Madworld + Gift Shop

Being scared works up an appetite. Good thing Madworld can help out with that.

There are some tasty food vendors at Madworld that sell mini donuts, cheeseburgers, funnel cakes, muffins, fries, and even coffee and frappes.

These are located inside the park. You can sit around the bonfire and eat and calm your heart rate after going through the haunted trail.

As for the gift shop, you’ll want to go here before heading home. They have some really cool stuff like skeleton wine goblets, terrifying hoodies, ghost soap dishes, and candles.

Best Ages for Madworld

If you think I’m going to give you an age range for kids who will enjoy this, sorry to disappoint but it’s not happening. As an adult, I was scared. I know several adults who would also be terrified of Madworld but who want to go and scream their heads off. Other friends are scared just looking at my photos of Madworld.

I know my own kids, currently ages 12 and 9, and they would never sleep after going to Madworld. But other kids, including another 12-year-old and a teenager who came with us, absolutely loved this place and no doubt will want to go back. When we went, there was a little girl, probably around 7, who was first in line with her mom.

So what age is good for this haunted attraction? It totally depends on your kid.

Joe did tell us that when little kids come in, the actors don’t act as scary towards them. So, instead of quietly coming up behind them and waiting for them to turn around and be scared out of their mind, the characters will approach them from the front and give them a high five.

Tips on Enjoying Madworld

Here are a few things we found to be helpful when heading to Madworld Haunted Attraction.

The actors are not allowed to intentionally touch guests. They are allowed to get very close though and sometimes I brushed up against their costumes.
Wear sturdy and closed toed shoes. Sometimes you can’t see the floor in the haunted trail and there is part of it where the floor moves so you want sturdy shoes.
Plan to spend some time there. There are a lot of things to enjoy at Madworld besides the haunted trail so plan to spend the evening hanging out, getting scared, and playing carnival games, eating, or chilling at the bonfire.
Sign your waiver and have the proof you signed it on your phone at the entrance. That’s the only thing you need to enter Madworld and you’ll be checked for it.
If you’re able, get the Fast Pass. It will save you time on the haunted trail since you jump to the head of the line.
You can buy a no-scare medallion as part of your ticket package if you want to go but don’t want to be screaming all night. When kids wear these medallions, it repels monsters.
Do not wear your Halloween costumes. No costumes are allowed.
There are a lot of strobe and flashing lights and fog. If you have a condition where these things aggravate it, then it is not recommended you go. Pregnant women are also cautioned against doing the haunted trail.

Overall Review of Madworld

This type of attraction is typically not at the top of my Halloween excursions but readers, this is what I do for you. That said, Madworld was really, really fun. It’s obvious how much work went into creating a top-notch experience for guests who come looking to be scared and have a great night with their friends, family, or date (this would make a great date night).

The characters are very good at their work and everyone we saw throughout the haunted trail was on point for their particular scare tactic. We never saw any actor break character, which I imagine is very difficult to do for hours each night.

I’d certainly consider putting Madworld on my fall bucket list after this trip.

Spooky Drinks

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Operating Hours & Tickets

You can purchase your tickets online or at the gate. They have several different packages whether you want the full experience of the haunted trail and all the carnival games or just a couple things to do. You can also purchase a season pass if you’re that kind of crazy. General admission tickets are $40/adult and $35/kids 10 and under. Ticket packages go up from there.

They are open weekends starting September 5, 2025 through November 1, 2025. They are also open Halloween and a few other days before the last weekend of October. The times vary so check the schedule before you go.

Madworld will open in light rain but if it’s raining heavily, they will need to close. Follow Madworld on Facebook for the most up-to-date announcements.

Haunted houses and spooky things to do in Greenville, SC

Looking for more haunts?
See our Guide to Haunted Attractions in the Upstate!

Madworld Haunted Attraction
147 Country Manor Road, Piedmont, SC
Madworld on Facebook

Move Over, Apple Cider Donuts, New Treats From NC Orchards Are In Town

🍎Apple orchards are stepping up their game when it comes to attracting guests with delicious baked goods – it’s not all about apple cider donuts anymore! Here are some of the very best treats we’ve found at apple orchards that are totally worth the short day trip. 🍎

Grandad’s Apples N Such

The bakery team at Grandad’s is out to make you a repeat customer this year. They have a Mountain Glacier Slushie that you can get with or without ice cream, and they introduced their Apple pie cinnamon roll this year for extra sweetness.

2951 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville, NC

Jeter Mountain Farm

Everything is stunning at this beautiful orchard, and their brand new creamery is no different. The team at Jeter is serving up small-batch ice cream this year, made right there at the orchard and with local ingredients – their newest is Apple Pie. You can even create an ice cream float with their sparkling cider.

1126 Jeter Mountain Rd, Hendersonville, NC

Jeter Mountain ice cream — Small-batch ice cream at Jeter Mountain

Sky Top Orchard

Typically known for their amazing donuts and insanely gorgeous views, Sky Top has introduced the Apple Cider Doughnut Slushie Float – layers of cider slushy with soft serve ice cream topped with one of their delicious doughnuts.

1193 Pinnacle Mountain Rd, Zirconia, NC

Apple Cider Slushie at Sky Top — Apple Cider Slushie Float at Sky Top

Justus Orchard

This family-run orchard has lots of activities for both kids and adults (hello, tap room), but their Apple Cider Float is worth the stop alone. It’s topped with homemade granola straight from grandma’s kitchen.

187 Garren Road, Hendersonville, NC

apple orchard treat at Justus Orchard — Doesn’t that look amazing?

Apple Hill Orchard

Located in Morganton, NC, this orchard churns out some delicious bakery treats. Their baker told us that they create new treats every week! They recently offered the Caramel Apple Stack – a concoction of apples drizzled in caramel, topped with ice cream and a donut.

2075 Pleasant Hill Ave, Morganton, NC

In Case You Still Want Those Donuts…

Looking for those delicious apple cider donuts to add to the fall treat list? Here’s our Apple Cider Donut Driving Tour.

Take Your Family to Justus Orchard for Fun and Apple Picking

Fall is just about here and you’re probably hunting the perfect activity to celebrate the season. Local mom Kristina loves Justus Orchard and is telling us why this is one fall road trip you’re going to make into your new family tradition. After all, Justus Orchard offers tons of fun activities for the kids and tasty treats too!

There are lots of great reasons to visit Justus Orchard in the gorgeous mountains of Hendersonville this fall: the apples are delicious, the scenery is peaceful and picturesque, the family who runs the business is very kind and have been running the orchard for four generations, and the apple cider donuts and slushies are delicious. I don’t even like donuts but put one of those in front of me and I’m not going to say no.

Justus Orchards is open every weekend for U-pick through mid-November. They have their delicious apple slushies, apple fritters, apple donuts, fried apple pies, and fruits and vegetables. They also have something new this year: an Apple Cider Float with Apple Crisp Crumbles on top! Yummy!

Their big playground is also open, plus all the farm activities like the cow train and a jumping pillow. They also have a beautiful tap room, another jumping pillow, and more additions to the play area.

If you want to add on other activities in Hendersonville for your day trip, try the free train museum, the Carl Sandburg home, the Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens (closes August 31st) or the Team ECCO aquarium.

Apple orchards near Greenville, SC, U-Pick apples and apple farms near Upstate, SC

Looking for more apple orchards? Here are the best U-pick apple orchards near the Upstate.

I first went to Justus many years ago, only a few months after I first moved to the Upstate. Word was that if you wanted to go apple picking, go to Justus – so I took my then 3-year-old and newborn and went to get me some apples. It’s been one of my family’s favorite apple orchards ever since.

Justus Orchard play area — New play area 2024

Easy Apple Picking

I think one of the more fun aspects of actually apple picking are the awesome wagons the orchard has where you can put your kids, uh, apples I mean. It makes it easier to cart everything around.

They also have a map for you to find your favorite apple varieties and have those giant sticks with a little cage at the top so you can grab apples from high in the trees. Their Facebook page and their apple ripening calendar are updated with the latest apple varieties that are in season, which makes it helpful for timing your visit.

The orchard also sells tons of just-picked apples so don’t feel you need to do all the hard work alone or with the little ones, who may tire out before you can fill up your basket. I also thought the pricing for the number of apples was very reasonable and inexpensive. Just have a bunch of good apple recipes for when you get home!

Mid-summer, the orchard opens for blackberry picking. They also have available blueberries, some apples, peaches, and of course, their delicious items from the bakery.

Kid-Friendly Activities at Justus Orchard

Justus Orchard seeks to make the experience of apple picking a memorable one for the whole family. They have two jumping pillows, a huge playground, a picnic area, cow train, and even apple canons.

Justus Orchard Play space — Playground at the orchard

Justus Orchard has two jumping pillows plus two huge ball-throwing contraptions and corn hole. The views at the orchard are insanely gorgeous and the space is so inviting. There are places to sit and watch your kids or play with them and enjoy the orchard.

All kids activities and barn visits to the animals are $5/person, except the playground, which is free.

NOTE: The jumping pillows are open Friday-Sunday, but the apple cannon and cow train are only open on Saturdays and Sundays.

During the fall, there are a series of events on weekends, which you can learn about by watching their Facebook page.

Picking (and eating) the apples are a fun activity for children and there is lots of open space for them to run around before driving back home.

New Tap Room

Also new in 2024 is the tap room at Justus Orchard. They have locally made hard cider and beer in a totally enclosed standalone building. They have tables and chairs set up and they offer flights of cider, which is awesome.

The new tap room also has a covered patio right next to the big play area so you can sit and chill out drinking your hard cider while watching your kids get their energy out.

New Indoor Bathrooms

Everyone can rejoice at the new addition of indoor bathrooms at the orchard! The bathrooms are located near the entrance to the kids play area and tap room.

Apple Cider Donuts, Slushies, Pies & BBQ at Just Orchard

The Bakery House at the orchard sells all kinds of delectable apple goodies that you’ll want to try while you are there. They have, among other things, fried apple pies, apple slushies, caramel apples, apple fritters, apple pies, and even coffee.

They also sell apple peelers and contraptions to core an apple.

On weekends, a BBQ food truck sets up shop at the orchard so if you forget to pack a lunch, you can always chow down on some slow-cooked pork while taking in the mountain air.

Take your family to Justus Orchard

Always call ahead before you go just to make sure no extraneous things happened that affected their hours or apples. Be ready to start an awesome family tradition at Justus Orchard!

Justus Orchard Website
187 Garren Road, Hendersonville, NC
Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm
828.974.1232

Visit the Justus Orchard website.
Visit the Justus Orchard Facebook page.

Have you ever taken your kids apple picking at Justus Orchard?

If you’re headed up to Hendersonville, don’t miss our huge guide to Hendersonville, NC. It’s full of things to do, where to eat, and lots of free fun ideas.

Denver Downs is the One Farm To Put On Your Don’t Miss List This Fall

If you adore fall, you may be planning a visit to a local farm with activities your whole family will love. One of our favorite farms is Denver Downs Farm, which offers a six acre corn maze, jumping pillows, zip lines, and much more. We have all the details of the activities they offer this season! The 2025 season begins September 26, 2025 – November 9th, 2025.

Thank you to Denver Downs Farm for sponsoring this article.

The Corn Maze at Denver Downs

Things to Do at Denver Downs

Plan Your Visit to Denver Downs

11 Reasons to Visit Denver Downs

As summer gives way to fall and the weather turns a little cooler, I can’t hide my excitement for my absolute favorite time of year. I love sweater weather, boots, and the leaves changing to vibrant yellows and reds. But most of all, I look forward to this time of year more than ever because there is just so much to do that every weekend becomes an adventure.

One particular place that I cannot wait to mark on my calendar during fall is trekking to Denver Downs Farm in Anderson. If you’ve never been, read on because you’ll want to plan your visit just as much as I do.

About Denver Downs Farm

Denver Downs is currently a 250-acre agri-tourism farm, which means they are a working farm but invite people who are interested in learning about the farm. It also means they host really cool events like their annual Fall Festival, which features their nationally-recognized pumpkin patch, corn maze, live music, bonfires, pig races, and Pie Eating Contests.

The farm was started as a cotton farm in the late 1800s and then transitioned to a dairy farm. It was successful, with a milking herd of over 300 Holstein cows at one point, but then the dairy cows were sold in the mid-90s and the farm transitioned to row crops, produce, and beef cattle farming. Mrs. Garrison started giving tours of the farm back when the farm was a dairy farm in the 1960s, around 2001 a corn maze was planted and that launched their next venture into seasonal agriculture tourism!

The Corn Maze at Denver Downs

The first time I heard about Denver Downs was when I was told that the largest corn maze in the Southeast part of the United States was at this farm. Growing up in New Jersey, we didn’t exactly have enormous corn fields to run through, so I was immediately intrigued. Plus, I really wanted to imagine some big-time baseball stars coming out of cornfields (thank you “Field of Dreams”).

Although I’ve yet to see Babe Ruth make an appearance, the corn maze is enormous with 6 acres of corn stalks and paths. It’s also really easy to get lost in, which is certainly half the entertainment – as long as you are willing to let a toddler lead the way.

The Garrison Family, who have owned and operated the farm since 1869, make the corn maze a lot of fun by putting up checkpoints throughout, where maze-goers can use their smartphones to scan the numbers and track their time. We were in the maze for about 15 minutes and only came across one number. If you don’t have kids, have at it.

Fun fact: Their corn maze is so awesome that they were named the 7th best Corn Maze in the entire country by USA Today in 2023, their seventh time making this list. This year the pumpkin patch is making national news with the Pumpkin Patch being Listed among the 10 Best in the US by USA Today.

The Activities

When you walk into the farm, at first glance it doesn’t look huge. You think you can almost see all of the activities with a quick scan but wow, you are mistaken. There is so much to do, at least a day’s worth of fun. I’ve gotten smarter each time I go and pack more food and water because we stay all day long, literally five to eight hours at least. And we still don’t even get to all of the activities they have.

There is a giant open barn full of hay with rope swings where kids can swing and then jump into the hay. Raise your hand if you want to be the adult in line with the kids? Yes, that was me too and it was a blast.

Kristina on a zipline at Denver Downs in Anderson, SC

The list of activities is long including:

zip line
massive mega mountain tube slide
giant tricycles
pig derby
ropes course
sensory sandboxes
two giant jumping pillows
corn hole
tractor tire playground
gem mining
petting zoo
barnyard activities
human foosball
mini-farm house perfect for little kids to play in
swings made from tires that look like horses
spider web climb
arcade that consists of areas where you can test your basketball, baseball and football throwing skills
cow train and lots more.

Each year they add some new attractions. Find the full list of activities on the farm.

On the educational side, there are exhibits of crops and signs about how the crops are grown, and how the maze is made.

In addition to more than 35 barnyard activities, they also have a big pumpkin patch, bonfire pits, farm animals, live music, tons of carnival food options, kettle corn, and funnel cake.

Awesome Tube Slide & Jumping Pillows

The farm has expanded every year to add more activities and my favorite expansion so far was in 2022 with the addition of the mega slide.

Denver Downs will again have its massive mega slide, Slide Mountain! I got to try it out and oh my gosh, it was awesome! You can go as fast as 35 mph and there’s even a bridge above to watch people slide down. This is easily one of the most popular activities at the farm.

The expanded jumping pillow area is surrounded by a fence & includes two giant jumping pillows. It’s huge. The pillows are for older and younger kids, which I think is pretty smart, as long I can still go and jump because yup, I’m a big kid at heart.

Pumpkin Light Maze

In 2023, the farm added a new Pumpkin Lights Trail, complete with a pumpkin princess carriage. There is a singing pumpkin light show, carved pumpkin displays, giant candy corn, giant spider webs, and a trail that guests can walk through for a neat experience. It’s right next to the pumpkin patch (of course). It also has lights at night so you can select a pumpkin in the evening if you missed out during the daylight.

You’ll also love it during the day as there are several places to take fun photos and even sit inside the pumpkin carriage. Bring your crown!

11 Reasons to Visit Denver Downs Farm: Parent Review

11: Enjoy being a kid with your kids.

All of the barnyard activities – the jumping pillows, slides, rock walls, games, swinging from ropes – bring out the kid in me. Denver Downs is a place I can just play with my kids. And it’s a lot of fun for all of us!

10: It’s an opportunity to support a local farm.

Denver Downs is a family-run farm that first opened in the late 1800s. By supporting the farm, you are extending that heritage in our region and are able to be a part of history.

9: There are often baby animals, including my favorite: baby goats.

If there are baby goats anywhere, you should go. Or baby animals. They make anyone smile.

8: The music is fantastic.

Music at entertainment venues for families is sometimes just background noise. That’s not the case at Denver Downs. The solo acts throughout the weekend and Saturday night live bands are awesome. You’ll want to hang out and listen by the bonfires.

7: The pig derby is adorable.

Being from the north, I didn’t know pig racing was a thing until I went to Denver Downs. And now I’m the one in the front row cheering on the little guys as they race to get their treats.

6: Go through the corn maze and check off a national bucket list item.

The Denver Downs six-acre corn maze has received national accolades and landed on the USA Today’s 10 Best Readers Choice list seven times! And this year, they are listed in the top 10 Best Pumpkin Patches! It’s the only farm in the state to make theses lists.

5: The fresh squeezed lemonade, Cider Slushies and kettle corn are super tasty.

If you’re going to get lemonade, make sure it’s fresh-squeezed because it’s totally worth it. Plus the Apple Cider Slushies and the kettle corn are delicious. They’ve also got several adult beverages (think Fall Frose!).

4: Adults have just as much fun as kids.

Denver Downs isn’t just for kids – all the barnyard activities can be enjoyed by adults, too. You bet I’ve raced around on the little tricycles and swung on the ropes in the barn and ridden the zipline.

3: You can leave and come back all day and evening.

Many places don’t allow guests to leave and come back, essentially forcing them to purchase not-so-cheap eats at the location. While the farm has reasonable food for purchase, they allow guests to leave and come back the same day. You can bring a picnic for the parking area, or visit one of the many local restaurants and return back to the farm. We usually tailgate out in the parking lot for lunch before heading back in for round two of fun.

2: With over 35 activities and entertainment, the ticket prices include a lot for one price.

Some families will look at the ticket price per person and say that’s not cheap. However, for the number of available activities, it’s reasonable! Other farms and events, like carnivals, you pay individually for each attraction like $5 for a hayride, another $5 for the jumping pillow, $3 for the swing ride and so on. And that’s just for one time on each activity.

At Denver Downs, the ticket price covers all activities PLUS you can do them as many times as you like! The entertainment schedule is packed with live music, pig races, lighted pumpkin trail lights show, and the candy cannon, which you won’t want to miss!

1: It’s one of the best places in the area to make lasting family memories.

Like I said at the beginning of this list, my family makes going to Denver Downs a priority every fall and we look forward to it all year long because we just have so much fun together. It’s quality time that is so precious in today’s busy world, which is just priceless.

Planning Your Visit to Denver Downs

Denver Downs Fall Festival, which includes the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and plenty of family-friendly activities, is open from September 26th to November 9th, 2025, Friday, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Hours vary, visit the Denver Downs Calendar for up-to-date information.

2025 All Day Admission is $26.95 per person online plus tax. Flash sale tickets are $19.95 (Pre-sale tickets are 15% off through 9/25). There is also a modest online purchasing fee of less than $2, and credit card fee. Children aged 2 and under are free.

Though it may seem pricey at first glance, the tickets are well worth the cost. You get a stamp on your hand, which allows you to leave and reenter the same day. The ticket price includes all the attractions except concessions, pumpkins, and pick-your-own flowers are extra.

Things to Know: Tips from Parents Visiting Denver Downs

Pets on leash are allowed but expect to pay about $10 per pet for them to enter.
There are port-a-potty bathrooms as well as an enclosed nursing station and changing table area.
My family goes and makes a day out of it. Food selections include barbecue plates, hot dogs, all beef cheeseburgers, and tacos. Special Festival Treats include of course: Fresh Popped Kettle Corn, Fresh Squeezed Lemonade, Funnel Cakes, S’mores, Cotton Candy, Apple Cider Slushies, Fall Frose, and more.
Bring water (water bottles allowed), sunscreen, and snacks since it can still be quite warm that time of year. With all the running around and playing, it does get exhausting. My preschool-age daughter actually fell asleep on one of the tire horse swings the first time we went.

Admission includes activities like:

Finding your way through the 6-acre corn maze
Jumbo Jumping Pillow
Cow Train
Animal Races
Little Farmer’s Corral
Climbing Wall
Giant Slide
Zip Line
Tug-0h-war
Dodge Ball
Farmin Foosball
Straw Barn Play Area
Corn Boxes
Spider Web Climb
Mini-Maze
Giant Tricycles
Bonfires & Live Music

For more information, visit www.denverdownsfarm.com or head straight there: 1515 Denver Road, Anderson!

Check out our KA Guide to Fall, with over 30 fun places to go and things to do this season near Greenville, SC!

Events on Our Calendar at Denver Downs Farm

Current Month

fri07nov5:00 pmfri10:00 pmDenver Downs Fall Festival5:00 pm - 10:00 pm(GMT-05:00) Denver Downs Farm, 1515 Denver Downs RoadPrice:27+

Fall Fun for the Whole Family at Strawberry Hill

Ever experienced Fall at Strawberry Hill? If you’re looking for something fun to do with your family this fall in the Greenville-Spartanburg area, Strawberry Hill Farm needs to be on your list. In fact, it should probably be on your bucket list every year.

Hay Ride, Cows & Places to Play

Corn Maze at Strawberry Hill

Cafe and Ice Cream

The Shed: Farm Store

Tips for Visiting Strawberry Hill

Strawberry Hill and Cooley Farms have been family-owned and operated since 1947, and they truly understand and value families. With a cafe, ice cream shop, and produce stand of fresh pumpkins, jellies, jams, corn, and more, you’ll find plenty to satisfy your cravings. Plus, the hay ride and corn maze provide more than enough entertainment and memory-making for a couple of hours.

We visited one late morning in September and quickly discovered we weren’t the only ones who found this local gem. We wandered around the Shed, took plenty of photos, and went on the hay ride. If you’re thinking of visiting Strawberry Hill Cooley Farms, I’ve compiled lots of info and details for you below, including some extra tips before you go.

The Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor at Strawberry Hill

While we personally didn’t visit the cafe or ice cream parlor during our trip, it was PACKED and had a long line out front. Clearly, it is popular with families around the Upstate. The ice cream parlor has 32 flavors of freshly churned ice cream made with fruit straight from the farm. The cafe serves breakfast and lunch and has a variety of items to choose from. Breakfast is served until 10:30 am.

The Shed at Strawberry Hill

We parked at the Shed, and our toddler was immediately excited about all the pumpkins she could see from the car. Strawberry Hill has a large variety of pumpkins in all shapes, colors, and sizes to choose from. Not to mention their large supply of jellies, jams, boiled peanuts, and other snacks. They even had 3 flavors of slushies while we were there: Apple, Blackberry, and Peach. We grabbed a Peach Slushie to enjoy on our hay ride. It was delicious!

If you wander outside of the Shed covering, you’ll discover more pumpkins and some other fun things to bide your time. You’ll find a couple of tractors, a swing, and stacks of hay bales and pumpkins that are styled for the perfect fall photo op.

The Hay Ride at Strawberry Hill

If you want to go on one of the hay rides, purchase your tickets in the Shed. Each ticket includes a trip to the playground, opportunity to feed the big cows, visit some other farm animals, go down the GIANT slide, and access to the big jumping pillow. We weren’t really sure what to expect, but we’re glad we went on it! This ticket is $20 per person ages 2+.

Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll wait until your group is called, and then you’ll board the wagon. Don’t worry about getting itchy by sitting on bales of hay—Strawberry Hill has cleverly covered the hay bales in plastic for your comfort.

The tractor and wagon will take you through Strawberry Hill’s property, giving you fun facts along the way. (Fun fact we learned: they plant their strawberries by hand every single year! This was mind-blowing to me because their strawberry field is massive).

Strawberry Hill play space on the hay ride

While on the hay ride, you’ll see cows and get the chance to feed them a little treat! Then, the tractor will drop you off at an exclusive area that’s only accessible for those who hop on the hay ride. You’ll find more farm animals to pet (Queen Victoria, the farm’s pig, was a big hit!), a sandbox, seesaws, a variety of games, several large slides, the pumpkin patch, and a giant Jumping Pillow!

Once you and your kids are done playing, you can hop back on a wagon to head back to the Shed.

The Corn Maze at Strawberry Hill

Strawberry Hill has 3 corn mazes: two larger ones and one kiddie maze. The two larger corn mazes take 20-30 minutes to complete, and the kiddie maze takes about 20 minutes.

Admission Cost & Hours for Strawberry Hill Fall 2025

Hayride Only

Cost: $20 per person 2+ years old
September 2025 Hours: (Opens September 27, 2025)
- Saturdays 9 am – 5 pm
- Sundays 12 pm – 5 pm
- *Last wagons load at 5 pm
October 2025 Hours (last day is November 2nd):
- Fridays 1 pm – 5 pm (October 17th, 24th, and 31st only)
- Saturdays 9 am – 5 pm
- Sundays 11 am – 5 pm
- *Last wagons load at 5 pm

Corn Maze Only

Cost: $10 per person 8+ years old, $8 for those 3+ years old
Hours: Monday – Sunday 10 am – 6 pm
- *Last corn maze entry at 6 pm

Combo Pass: Hayride + Corn Maze

Cost: $25 per person

NOTE: There is a 3.99% fee for any credit card or debit card charges.

Tips for Visiting Strawberry Hill

Wear closed-toe shoes if you plan on visiting the Corn Maze and/or go on a hay ride. It’s sandy, dirty, and—well, there are farm animals.
If you plan on going on the hay ride, dress your kids in play clothes and not their Sunday best. Between the large sandbox, slides, and petting zoo, they’re bound to get dirty.
Use the restroom before you go on the hay ride.
Be prepared for lines and a wait at the Cafe and Ice Cream Parlor.
Keep in mind that no pets are allowed on the hay ride or at the corn maze.

Strawberry Hill Cooley Farms

Strawberry Hill Shed at Cooley Farms
3097 Hwy 11 W, Chesnee
Sunday-Saturday 8 am – 8 pm

Strawberry Hill Cafe & Ice Cream
3092 Hwy 11 W, Chesnee
Cafe Hours: Monday-Saturday 6 am – 2:30 pm

There are so many things going on in the Greenville area this season – check out the full Guide to Fall!

Check out our Fall Guide to Greenville | Pumpkin Patches in Greenville | Corn Mazes in Greenville

Goblins, Ghosts & Campfires: Best Halloween Campgrounds in and near the Upstate, SC

Inside: Campgrounds with Halloween activities in Greenville, SC, Charlotte, NC, WNC and Columbia, SC.

Camping during Halloween can be really fun – trick-or-treating from campsite to campsite, carving pumpkins by the fire, and making those lasting memories with your family. There are several great spots in and near the Upstate, SC that do special events for Halloween, and we’ve got the list right here!

MidKnight Bus at Magical Mountain Resorts — MidKnight Bus Magical Mountain Resorts

A few tips:

We’ve tried to keep the list to campgrounds that are three hours and under driving distance from Greenville, SC, many of these are convenient for families in Charlotte, NC and Columbia, SC.
Some of the more popular campgrounds will fill up for Halloween weekends months in advance. Make reservations early.
If your preferred campground is booked, email the owners and get on the waiting list. People cancel their reservations all the time.
While we have stayed at several of these places, we have not stayed at all of them but we tried to do the best research we could. Double check critical information before booking.

Halloween Campgrounds: Upstate, SC

Halloween Campgrounds: Midlands, SC

Halloween Campgrounds: WNC

Halloween Campgrounds near Charlotte, NC

Map of Campgrounds

Because we love maps and find them very useful for stories like this, we made one to show you where all of these places are located:

Upstate, SC Campgrounds

Field Trip Glamping | Travelers Rest

Starting on September 21st, which is the Grand Opening Celebration, every weekend in the fall Field Trip Glamping will be doing Fall Family Fun activities on Fridays and Saturdays. This includes live music, outdoor movies on a blow up screen (including The Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown, The Fantastic Mr. Fox, Coco, the Parent Trap), mini pumpkin painting, Halloween candy s’mores bar, self-guided fall nature scavenger hunt, fall photo backdrops, and, of course, all the regular offerings like the slingshot range, climbing wall, play set, bonfires, and wood fired hot tub and sauna. These Fall Family Fun Weekends at Field Trip will run from September 21st through November 9th, 2025 so they are perfect for Halloween glamping.

Shores of Asbury | Anderson

The Shores of Asbury is hosting two weekends full of Halloween fun such as haunted hayrides, a magic pumpkin patch, best decorated RV and tent site contest, and a disco golf parade. The weekends are October 25th and November 1st. This is a really fun campground – read our review.

halloween campground — Halloween at the Shores of Asbury. Photos courtesy of the campground.

Oconee State Park | Mountain Rest

Head to Oconee State Park for their spook-tacular Halloween evening, which includes costumes, candy, games, hayrides, bounce houses, and trick-or-treating. The festivities happen on October 25th, 2025 from 2-7 pm.

Spacious Skies Campgrounds | Gaffney

This campground hosts Spooktacular Skies and Cosmic Hauntings in October as part of their seasonal fun for all families. They offer cabins, tent sites, and RV sites.

Iron City Campground | Blacksburg

This campground goes all out for Halloween with decorating contests, trick-or-treating, hayrides, and lots of fun.

Pine Ridge Campground | Spartanburg

Pine Ridge offers Halloween-themed weekends for three weekends in October. They have RV sites and vacation rentals available.

Hester’s Bottoms | Mount Carmel

Hester’s Bottoms is one of our very favorite campgrounds right on the SC/GA border with huge, private sites on the water. They hold Halloween celebrations throughout October but book up fast.

Midlands, SC Campgrounds

Ebenezer Park | Rock Hill

This park in York County has a big Halloween weekend on October 25th, 2025 from 6-8 pm.

Lake Greenwood State Park | Greenwood

Lake Greenwood State Park is hosting a themed “Trick-or-Treat in the Campground” event the weekend before Halloween on October 25, 2025, from 5–7 pm. Kids wearing costumes can enjoy candy and activities.

Creepy Campout at Lake Wateree State Park | Winnsboro

Get ready for the spookiest event of the season at Lake Wateree State Park. This campground goes all out for Halloween with an all day event schedule that includes scavenger hunts, decorated campsites, costume contests, hayrides, and trick-or-treating. All the fun happens on Saturday, October 25th, 2025 from 11 am – 8 pm. Join fellow campers for a frightfully fun day of Halloween activities, decorated campsites, and plenty of treats.

Palmetto Shores RV Resort | Summerton

This campground hosts Halloween events, including a golf cart parade, for three weekends: October 17-18, 24-25, and 31-November 1st. They have RV sites and cabins available.

Dreher Island State Park | Prosperity

Dreher Island State Park will host Boo Bash during Halloween time but no date has been announced yet.

Camp Standing Pines | Hartsville

For all weekends in October Camp Standing Pines is having spooky Halloween fun that includes non-scary trick or treating, pumpkin trails, and costume contests.

Western NC Campgrounds

Magical Mountain Resorts | Hayesville

You really cannot get any more fairytale-themed than Magical Mountain Resorts with their Alice in Wonderland cottage, Snow White tiny home, and MidKnight Bus. For Halloween on October 31st, you can expect trick-or-treating, a costume contest and face painting, bracelet making and rock painting. Read our full review on this beautiful and enchanting place!

Emberglow Outdoor Resort | Mill Spring

This beautiful property not far from the Upstate near Tryon, NC has two Halloween weekends in 2025 (October 24-25 and October 31-November 1) where guests will enjoy a spooky hayride, pumpkin carving, and trick or treating. They have lots of fun glamping options.

Jellystone Park™ Golden Valley | Bostic

This campground has six weekends of Halloween fun lined up from September 26th through November 2nd, 2026. The Halloween-themed weekends include hayrides, a pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, and a haunted trail among other activities.

Stonebridge RV Resort | Maggie Valley

This award-winning campground at the gateway to the Smokies in Maggie Valley hosts a Spooktacular Halloween event for two days the weekend before Halloween – October 24th and 25th. They are booked but will post on their Facebook page if a site opens up.

Riverbend RV Park & Campground | Franklin

Near the Great Smoky Mountains and in beautiful Western NC, Riverbend hosts a big Halloween celebration October 31st and November 1st for both kids and adults. It includes hot chocolate, hayrides, a chili cookoff, pie bake contest, trick or treating, and lots of fun.

Cherokee Great Smokies KOA | Cherokee

Enjoy planting pumpkin seeds, trick or treating, and a scary haunted house at the Cherokee Great Smokies KOA in Cherokee, NC on October 24 and 25, 2025. They have RV sites, cabins, and tent sites.

Near Charlotte, NC Campgrounds

Broad River Campground | Mooresboro

The last two weekends in October are Halloween-themed at Broad River Campground, which offers RV sites, glamping domes, tent sites, and cabins.

Byrd’s Branch Campground | Elkin

The campground is going all out for their Halloween spooktacular, which includes cookie decorating, trick-or-treating, a movie night, and costume and decorating contest. The event is November 1, 2025.

Riverwalk RV Park on the Yadkin River | Jonesville

October 25th and November 1st are Camp-O-Ween at Riverwalk RV Park with axe throwing, trick or treating, and site decorating. They offer RV sites.

Midway Campground and RV Resort | Statesville

This campground actually hosts the Midway Wicked Woods trail and attraction. You get a discount if you stay at the campground.

Cross Country Campgrounds | Denver

Right outside of Charlotte, Cross Country Campgrounds hosts big Halloween weekend celebrations that book up fast. They have about 400 sites.

Norwood Campground | Norwood

Norwood hosts two Halloween weekend celebrations – October 17-19 and 24-26, 2025. They have RV and tent sites.

Ebenezer Park | Rock Hill (SC)

This park in York County has a big Halloween weekend on October 25th, 2025 from 6-8 pm.

For our favorite spots to camp, see our camping in and near Greenville story!

Want more fun Halloween things to do? Here’s our Greenville, SC Halloween Guide.

Want more? Here are a few more Halloween Camping spots near Charleston, SC.

You Have to Pass Puzzles to Get Past the Spirits in this Underground Haunted House

It’s the Halloween attraction you never knew you needed. A brand new Haunted House meets escape room at The Sunken Manor! We had the chance to go and were blown away. Thank you to the Sunken Manor for inviting us to their terrifying attraction!

The Sunken Manor is a brand new Haunted House, started by a local family who have created a complex Halloween attraction. Complete with a sinister backstory linked to the very house that the scares happen in! If you love Halloween, jumpscares, or have teens who are ready to tackle bigger scares, this place is for you! Plus, they have scare-themed events throughout the year!

About The Sunken Manor

The Sunken Manor was started in 2024 by a local family, and this is its very first Halloween season! The family has owned the house since December and has been making this haunted house a reality since then.

Located in Travelers Rest, this manor is uniquely built directly into the side of a hill. (Hence the “Sunken” name). Parking, entrance, and check-in are all on the property. And as you check in you actually are standing on the roof of the manor! Super trippy, super spooky, and a perfect way to begin the whole experience.

The Backstory

The creators of The Sunken Manor have created a complex backstory for the haunted attraction and for the house itself, and some elements are inspired by true events! They have a QR code at the entrance that will take you to a video on their website that tells the chilling tale of the Sunken Manor, and what may hide beneath its depths.

We won’t give anything away, but the backstory adds so much depth to the whole experience, and there may even be some easter eggs in the video to look out for once you enter the attraction 😉

It’s also a great activity to kill time while waiting in line! That is, if you’re not being terrorized by the scare actors who join you as you wait.

The Details About the Haunted House

Sunken Manor begins before you even enter the attraction. As you buy your tickets scare actors are wandering the parking lot. I personally got followed by a spooky bat. As you wait in line there is a scary clown, a spooky scarecrow, and one of those scarers who slide on knee pads to scare you. And this is all before you even enter the house.

Once you enter the house you are sat down in a creepy dining room that transports you back into a time gone by. The host explains some of the backstory and the escape room aspect of the whole experience. Then before you know it, you are ushered out, and into the terrifying depths of the Sunken Manor.

In the attraction, you have to navigate through a series of rooms, each with its own unique theme and interactive scare actors. There are over a dozen, but here are some of the standouts:

An old-timey living room where you have to search for the clue to escape.
A dark maze where you have only a flashlight to try and catch a hidden scare actor (we had to SPRINT to catch him)
A dining room full of cannibals, and YOU have to free their next victim
A clown lair with puzzles and games you must complete to escape
A circus tent where you get chased by a chainsaw-wielding clown
A little girl’s bedroom where you have to read her a bedtime story that slowly comes to LIFE.

And more! But we don’t want to give too many spoilers. But that is what to expect when you enter the depths of The Sunken Manor! From the time that we entered the Manor, to the time we sprinted out, took about 25-30 minutes!

Best Ages

This is definitely an attraction geared towards teenagers and adults because of the in-your-face scare actors. As an adult, I was scared. There are loud noises, fog machines, strobe lights, scare actors yelling at you, and even a section where you have to chase a scare actor through a dark room.

But, you may have an especially brave 8-year-old who is ready to tackle all of these things. So it is up to your judgment and knowledge of your own child. But I will give you all the heads-ups and warnings you need to make an informed decision!

So what is a good age? It is best suited for teenagers and adults, but you know your kids better than I do! It totally depends on your kid.

Tips for enjoying The Sunken Manor

Here are a few things we’d suggest before going to the Sunken Manor!

Wear closed-toe, sturdy shoes.
The line to enter The Sunken Manor is outside, so wear layers!
Arrive early to avoid long lines.
There are lots of strobe lights and flashing lights, so be prepared for that.
Prepare for enclosed spaces. If you are claustrophobic or uncomfortable with that, then this may not be the attraction for you!
The actors will get VERY close to you. You will also be trapped in rooms with them.
This is a high scare attraction and is inside a house versus an outdoor trail with many exits. We would only advise taking older children who have completed other scary attractions successfully.
Ticket prices range from $25 – $35 (if you want the express lane ticket).

Upcoming Events at the Sunken Manor

The Sunken Manor will open to host other events during the year. They plan to host a scary Valentine’s Day event and a family-friendly (non-scary) Easter event and Holiday event in 2025. We will add additional information as it’s available.

Our Overall Review

We thought Sunken Manor was one of the most unique and scary attractions we have experienced in the Upstate. The underground set up of the original house combined with the puzzles and unique themes of each room kept the suspense running. We highly recommend you check it out this year if you enjoy intense haunted attractions.

The Underground Farm
The Sunken Manor
2185a Keeler Mill Rd. Greenville SC 29617

Hayride, Adorable Animals, Night Corn Maze, and Farm Fun Await at Famoda Farm

October means Famoda Farm Festival at the family-owned Famoda Farm, Taylors, SC best farm for family fun! It’s their second season so we went and checked it out so you can have all the details on how to have a wonderful day with your family at the farm.

Famoda Fall Festival in Taylors, South Carolina

The address for the Famoda Farm Festival is 3 Camp Creek Road Ext, Taylors. We normally don’t start stories with the address of the place we visited but there are a few different addresses associated with this place so take note. OK, onto the fun!

Famoda Farm is a super cute place that has adorable animals, including calves you can bottle feed, a play area, and amazing ice cream. If you follow us regularly, you know this! What you may not know is that the farm is hosting its annual fall festival from October 11th – November 3rd, 2024 Thursdays-Sundays, which is just perfect for a day of family fun. If you and your kids love hayrides, corn mazes, old-school playgrounds and toys, cute animals, and slides, this is the place for you.

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Pick Your Pumpkin Off the Vine at Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC

Looking forward to picking a pumpkin at The Nix Pumpkin Patch in Hendersonville, NC? This u-pick pumpkin patch allows you to cut the pumpkin right off the vine. We visited The Nix Pumpkin Patch and had so much fun searching for the perfect pumpkin, visiting their market, drinking apple cider, and making a lot of memories!

The Pumpkin Patch is open from September 7th, 2024 until late November.

The Nix Pumpkin Patch is a family-owned and operated pick-your-own pumpkin patch. Situated amongst a plethora of orchards and farms, you’ll find one of the only u-pick patches in the Hendersonville area. There is just something about cutting your pumpkin right off that vine that makes it so much better!

Fall scenes at Linda's Plants and shrubs in Hendersonville, NC

Looking for more fall fun? Here’s your guide to things to do in the Fall near Greenville, SC.

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LushAcres Farm: Historical Farm Offers Playground, Strawberries, and Seasonal Fun

LushAcres Farm, about an hour from Greenville, SC, is a pretty fascinating place that has animals, a playground, and lots of fun seasonal activities.

LushAcres Farm is set on more than 300 acres and has been in existence since around 1875. They have a really fascinating history and have combined over a century of farming with agritourism and taking care of children who need it most.

About LushAcres Farm

LushAcres Farm in Clinton, South Carolina, is an extension of Thornwell, a large non-profit connected to the farm that takes care of foster children, vets and aids foster families, and has two schools on campus. Their mission is to directly prevent child abuse and neglect and make sure every child knows they are loved.

Thornwell began its mission in 1875 when they started housing orphans after the Civil War. During the Great Depression, LushAcres fed its residents and others nearby with the harvests from their crops. And now they support the children in foster care through events at the farm, their farm market, their strawberry patch, and their seasonal activities.

The Farming Side of LushAcres

The farm grows many types of vegetables and fruits like tomatoes, corn, strawberries, pumpkins, and peppers. They have u-pick strawberries in the spring, which are deliciously sweet and juicy due to the soil the plants are grown in.

strawberries at LushAcres — Strawberries at LushAcres

The farm also has a beef share and raises the cattle from start to finish of the entire process. The cattle are all grass-fed and you can contact the farm to arrange to purchase a beef share.

They raise their own chickens and have a host of other barnyard animals for the public to see like adorable, fluffy alpacas, goats, and even Highland cows.

Be sure to stop by the farm market for fresh produce, meat raised on the farm, and goodies from local vendors like soap, candles, honey, and pickled vegetables.

U-Pick Strawberries

The strawberry fields at LushAcres are gorgeous and the berries look oh-so-good and juicy. The soil is exceptionally rich here so the berries turn out to be sweet and juicy.

The farm is currently open (as of April 12, 2024) for u-pick strawberries. They are $18/gallon. Always check their Facebook page or Instagram or call before you go as the weather can affect their u-pick field.

Also, they do have wheelchair-accessible strawberry picking available. There aren’t many berries yet but the plants are at an accessible height and wheelchairs are able to use the path to get there.

accessible strawberries at LushAcres — Accessible strawberries at LushAcres

Agritourism at LushAcres

A big part of the LushAcres Farm experience today is their agritourism. The farm hosts a Spring Festival (May 4, 2024 from 10 am – 5 pm), a Fall Festival every Saturday in October, and a Corn Maze After Dark experience near Halloween. They also have u-pick strawberries in the spring and offer field trips for schools.

The farm has a big playground with the biggest and best corn pit I’ve ever seen, a gaga ball area, a big slide and wall climbing spot, tires to run on, basketball hoops, a jumping pillow, and swings made of tires. There’s also a large picnic area.

For those who want a little extra fun, gem mining is available as well. My kids and I had a blast on the playground and I made some snow (corn?) angels in the corn pit. The playground is open whenever the farm market is open so this is a great spot to pick up local food and berries while the kids play!

The barnyard is open as well where you can see chickens, cows, goats, and two ginormous pigs.

Fun fact: they have a therapy cow where foster children who need a little extra confidence when learning to read can go read to. The therapy cow is non-judgemental and loves to hear stories while the kids gain confidence. Win-win.

Visiting LushAcres Farm

You can visit LushAcres when the Farm Market is open, which is Tuesday – Friday from 9 am – 5 pm and Saturdays from 9 am – 1 pm.

You can also check them out during special events like the Spring Festival on Saturday, May 4, 2024 from 10 am – 5 pm. Admission is $12/person and kids ages 2 and under are free. They will have local vendors, food trucks, and the playground and strawberry patch will be open.

Proceeds from events and the farm market go right back into supporting the children at Thornwell and their foster care mission. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster family, visit Thornwell’s website.

Hours:
Sunday-Monday Closed
Tuesday-Friday 9 am to 5 pm
Saturday 9 am to 1 pm

LushAcres Farm
1875 W. Maple Street Extension, Clinton, SC
Lush Acres Farm Website

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