Have you visited Cleveland Park in Spartanburg, SC? This gorgeous, heavily shaded park is located just off Asheville Highway and is the perfect place to spend the day with your family. This park has everything, from a large duck pond spotted with several species of bird, to an expansive playground. There is something new to experience with each visit. The park is handicap accessible, so everyone can enjoy the park without feeling restricted. So, grab your picnic basket and head to Spartanburg for a lovely day at Cleveland Park!
If you’ve been on the Swamp Rabbit Trail recently you may have stumbled upon the Cancer Survivors Park in Greenville, SC. This awesome park includes beautiful gardens, an amazing sculpture, and more.
Have you met a person who has not been touched by cancer? Cancer is all around us and even the word triggers feelings of fear and sadness in many of us. Maybe you are like Tom Bates who lost his daughter, Lindsey Motley, at 29 to colon cancer. He is the president of the board for the new Cancer Survivors Park. What used to be a narrow, grated bridge connecting Cleveland Park to Falls Park is now a large park filled with waterfalls, gardens, walkways, and art.
About Cancer Survivors Park
The Cancer Survivors Park is providing hope and tranquility amid the darkness of this disease. You will find hope as you walk underneath the butterflies welcoming you to the park. You may have noticed more butterflies around Greenville. Each of these butterflies is a “Butterfly Keeper” paid for by private donors to support the Cancer Survivors Park and designed by Yuri Tsuzuki.
Another picture of hope and the focal point of the park is the amazing Celebration Pavilion. You can see it from Church Street or Cleveland Street without even getting out of your car. Standing under it will allow you a panoramic view of the entire park.
How can you not find tranquility as you walk past the man-made waterfall and enjoy the rushing of the Reedy River throughout the park! Once you cross the Spirit Bridge, you can go to your left and walk down through the Healing Garden to the Reedy River and let the sound of the river wash over you.
When you cross the bridge and go to your right, you will come to the Children’s Garden. A life-size sculpture called Fear Not by Charles Pate Jr. shows a lion comforting a child. It is a warm symbol of the strength a child receives going through cancer.
Where you’ll find Cancer Survivors Park
The main parking area of the park is off Cleveland Street. You can also access the park by parking in Cleveland Park and walking up the Swamp Rabbit Trail towards Fall Park. Another parking option is at the Next building on Church Street. This is a fun entrance as you walk the Boardwalk that weaves down through the woods, past two overlooks, and brings you out at the Turning Point Plaza of the park.
Come visit this park as soon as you can! Your children will love the walkways and water, and you can take some very deep breaths.
Have you been to Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park? This special Greenville spot is full of history and it’s also a fun place to play. Check out what’s waiting for you at Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park in Greenville, SC.
When he was 13 years old, Joe Jackson earned a position on the Brandon Mill Baseball team. Historically, the mills played a large role in the evolution of baseball at the time; on Saturday afternoons when the whistles blew, the mill workers would swarm from the workplace to the local baseball fields, where they would practice for their games against mill leagues across Greenville County.
Many communities such as Brandon Mill were brought together through their love of the sport, and more than one legendary player emerged from these mill teams, including Joe Jackson, Champ Osteen and Red Barbary.
Photo credit to Charles M. Conlon
Shoeless Joe
Joseph Jefferson Jackson earned the nickname “Shoeless Joe” during a mill game when the blisters from a new pair of cleats resulted in the player taking off his shoes off before his turn at bat. Legend goes that as he was rounding third base in his socks a fan yelled out “You shoeless son of a gun, you!” and the resulting nickname stuck through the rest of his career.
In 1919 he was indicted in the Black Sox Scandal in which members of the 1919 Chicago White Sox participated in a conspiracy to fix the World Series. Although he was acquitted in 1921, he was still banned from playing baseball for the remainder of his career. Nevertheless, Shoeless Joe has one of the highest career batting averages in major league history (he hit .408 in 1911), and Babe Ruth is said to have modeled his batting technique after Jackson’s square stance.
The park
The historic Brandon Mill Community on Greenville’s Westside is now home to the 8-acre Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park, the baseball field where Jackson first played baseball. The park is split in two by Brushy Creek, which continues on through Greenville until it empties into the Reedy River in Lake Conestee Nature Park; due to the historic pollution caused by the mills and ongoing hazards from urban runoff, it is not advised to play in the water.
On one side of the creek is the lighted baseball field with a small parking lot that is open when a game is on. On the other side of the creek are the playground, picnic shelter and parking. The two sides are connected by a small bridge on the very backside of the park, and informational placards on the park and Shoeless Joe can be found next to the concessions building on the backside of the baseball diamond.
Nearby attractions
When you’re park hopping through the Greenville County Parks this summer, make sure to stop by nearby Freetown Community Center and playground for more fun. It’s just 5 blocks away, making it an easy two-base hit!
Greenville is also home to the Shoeless Joe Jackson Museum and Library, Shoeless Joe Jackson Plaza at the gates of Fluor Field (where a life-size bronze statue of Joe stands on a base made of bricks from the old Comiskey Ball Park in Chicago), and the site of Joe Jackson’s grave where visitors leave baseballs, photos, notes and other mementos.
Have you explored the Shoeless Joe Jackson Memorial Park?
Looking for a quick and inexpensive way for kids to beat the heat this summer? Forget expensive pool memberships or dedicating an entire day to navigating a waterpark, Spartanburg’s conveniently located FREE splash pad at Barnet Park is sure to be your go-to water activity this summer.
Located at the front entrance to Barnet Park at 248 E. Main Street, the Splash Pad is Open Memorial Day – Labor Day (9am – 7pm)
Splash pad visitors can park in the church parking lot across the street from the splash pad and use the crosswalk. Please do not use the Chapman Cultural Center parking lot (even though it’s tempting!), as it for Chapman Cultural Center employees and visitors/guests only.
Splash pad 411
Make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen. The splash pad is NOT shaded!
It’s a good idea to wear water shoes or have flip flops nearby. While the water fountains keep the play area cool, the surrounding sidewalk is very hot for uncovered little feet. Additionally, little ones might like the extra protection while navigating the splash pad.
Bathroom facilities are available, but they are located at the opposite end of the park. Expect a short walk.
Bring along containers, cups, or buckets for water play. Kids love filling these with water and it adds an extra element of fun to the splash pad.
Looking for food banks in Spartanburg, SC? Or do you sometimes wonder if there is anything you personally can do to help those in need? Or maybe you know some kids who would benefit from a free breakfast and lunch program in Spartanburg over the summer? We’ve put together this list of local organizations helping out in Spartanburg – organizations that need your help too!
Did you know that Spartanburg county has the highest occurrence of food insecurity in the entire state?
Whether your family includes some of the over 40,000 people in Spartanburg who don’t know where their next meal is coming from, or your family would like to find out easy (and fun) ways to help, we’ve got the info you’ll need. You’ll also find information on free breakfast and lunch programs for kids this summer in Spartanburg!
Did you know your food stamp benefits get doubled at the Hub-City Farmers Market? Read one local mom’s review of the market.
Inside: A local mom hikes Bearwallow Mountain Trail in Hendersonville, NC, and shares all the fun tips and cool things to do nearby!
The Bearwallow Mountain Trail is now open follow extensive Hurricane Helene damage. Here is what Conserving Carolina says about the re-opening:
Please bear in mind that road closures in Gerton on 74-A and the lower section of Bearwallow Mountain Rd are still in effect. Hikers should only access the trailhead from the Edneyville side of Bearwallow Mt. The Hickory Nut Gorge is a very active Hurricane Helene recovery area. Be mindful that emergency response may be delayed due to road closures. Show your consideration and respect for the residents of this highly impacted area by respecting trail notices, staying off private property and only traveling on roads that are open to the public. You can find routes that avoid the road closures in Google Maps.
Have you hiked the Bearwallow Mountain Trail? This easy trail in Hendersonville, NC lends itself to incredible, 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here’s everything you need to know about the hike, plus some cool things to do nearby Bearwallow Mountain!
In the 10 years (or thereabouts) that we’ve lived in Greenville, we’ve yet to exhaust the list of hiking trails within an hour’s drive from the city. Not only are we constantly discovering new areas through friends and various groups, but trails are being established in newly established conservancies and preserves through the efforts of groups like Conserving Carolina. One of our favorite late spring/early summer hikes is a comparatively new trail that leads to the summit of Bearwallow Mountain.
Hendersonville-based Conserving Carolina acquired a conservation easement on the summit of Bearwallow in 2009, adding close to 400 more acres between the summit and trailhead in recent years. At 4,232 ft. this is the highest peak in the Bearwallow Highlands range that straddles the Eastern Continental Divide.
The mountain is part of the Blue Ridge Escarpment and the western rim of the Hickory Nut Gorge, and views from the summit extend to Mt. Mitchell in the Black Mountains and Mt. Pisgah in the Great Balsams.
Conserving Carolina constructed the Bearwallow Mountain trail with the help of the Carolina Mountain Club, REI and community volunteers, and the hope is that eventually it will be incorporated into a 15-mile Upper Hickory Nut Gorge Trail, a loop that will link Bearwallow Mountain to CMLC’s Florence Preserve and the summit of Ferguson Peak. You can follow the progress of the trails in this area on the Conserving Carolina website.
On a recent warm summer day we took Poinsett Highway out of Greenville and then turned onto I-25 to cross into North Carolina. I had a momentary lapse of memory and thought I had forgotten our lunch on the counter, justifying a stop at one of the many stands by the side of the road to buy a bucket of freshly-picked strawberries. In another couple of months it’ll be peaches and apples… can’t wait! After jumping on I-26 towards Hendersonville, we took exit 49A for US Hwy. 64 east.
For further instructions see the Conserving Carolina website, but be aware that there’s a fork in the road that intuitively leads you off on N Bearwallow Rd. when you want to stay on Bearwallow Mountain Road.
Hiking up to Bearwallow Mountain Summit
The Bearwallow Mountain trailhead is at the crest of Bearwallow Mountain Rd. (Bearwallow Gap) where the pavement turns to gravel (the gravel road continues on over 2 miles to the town of Gerton, NC). Parking is along the shoulder, and the trail begins beyond the old, rusted gate.
You’ll see the trail kiosk on the right, marking the beginning of the one-mile ascent up to the summit. The gravel service road that heads off to the left meets the trail at the summit and continues on to the historic fire tower and telephone towers. You can take either way to the summit. Learn more about the hike on the Conserving Carolina website.
If you take the trail, be prepared for switchbacks and rocky stairs almost the entire way. Rhododendron and trillium distracted us from the somewhat steep climb, but poison ivy kept us on the trail. As we neared the top we passed several rocky outcrops, before emerging into a grassy meadow which has nearly a 360-degree view of the surrounding states.
The gravel road is also a hike up but wide and easy, especially if you’ve got smaller kids. Dogs are allowed on the trail but they must be on leash.
The panoramic views up here are incredible. I love taking a picnic and hanging out at the top while just taking in all the beauty. Bearwallow Mountain is perfect for sunrise or sunset, just be sure to bring a headlamp.
If you’re lucky, you’ll get to see the grazing cows at the top but please just let them graze and don’t go up and try to cuddle with them. Even if you don’t see the cows, you’ll definitely see the cow patties so just watch your step.
Nearby Things to Do
There are several nearby activities if you want to make a day trip. We have an entire story on the Hendersonville area, which you’ll want to check out, but here are just a few of my favorites depending on what time of year you hike Bearwallow Mountain.
Spring & Summer
Nearby Lake Lure has a great beach to hang out at. You can swim or rent a kayak or paddleboard and check out the lake.
Next to the beach is the free Flowering Bridge, which is gorgeous! They have all types of flowers and I think spring and summer have the most beautiful ones.
Chimney Rock next to Lake Lure has an adorable village that my kids and I love to walk around at. There’s a great place next to Chimney Rock State Park to get ice cream and you can go gem mining.
During the summer months, people really love the free Fairy Trail at Bullington Gardens. There are little fair houses and trolls to find along the short path.
Fall
Late summer and fall is apple picking season and there are plenty of places to go within 20 minutes or so fo Bearwallow Mountain.
If you love apple cider donuts, then don’t miss our Apple Cider Donut tour near Hendersonville.
I think Chimney Rock State Park is best viewed during the fall because of the incredible fall colors (but really, that park is awesome anytime of year).
Did you know there’s a llama farm that you can visit most times of the year where you can hike with llamas or run with them through obstacle courses? Do not miss Ellaberry Llama Farm. It will make you happy for months after!
Winter
Go snow tubing at Black Bear Snow Tubing, right around the corner from Bearwallow Mountain. They’ve got a great lodge to get hot chocolate at as well.
Moonshine Mountain is also another fun spot to go snow tubing. Just get there early since they don’t take reservations.
Have you hiked the Bearwallow Mountain Trail? This easy trail in Hendersonville, NC lends itself to incredible, 360-degree views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Here’s everything you need to know about the hike, plus some cool things to do nearby Bearwallow Mountain!
If you’re searching for the perfect place to find local produce in Spartanburg, SC, then you’ll be delighted by the Hub City Farmers’ Market. You’ll find all kinds of local goodness, from produce to plants, from lovely vendors and makers from our community!
Are you looking for the perfect outdoor space in Spartanburg? We gathered together our 5 favorite spots to enjoy nature with our children. Our list includes a garden, a park with a gazebo, and a park that overlooks a lake.
It may be the four true seasons Spartanburg has to offer, but my family loves to spend outdoors together. We feel fortunate to live in a place with so many great outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and great temperatures. Now that Spring has truly arrived, we are spending more and more time outside.
No matter what part of Spartanburg County you live in, you will find beautiful outdoor spaces for your family to explore. Whether it is a park, a lake, a garden, or a boisterous downtown restaurant, there is something outdoors for everyone. For even more fun ideas of things to do outside see our giant list of things to do outside in Spartanburg.
Cleveland Park
Located right in the center of Spartanburg is Cleveland Park. This park is a quiet gem in the middle of the city with a lake, swings, a playground, and walking trails. There is plenty of spaces for picnics and room for kids to roam and explore. In addition to the accessible playground, the park is a beautiful setting. So much so that it is frequently used for special events and weddings.
141 N. Cleveland Park Dr. Spartanburg, SC 29303
Admission: Free
Hatcher Garden & Woodland Preserve
We love Hatcher Garden & Woodlawn Preserve on the Westside of Spartanburg. Located off John B. White Sr. Boulevard, you might have even passed it without realizing it was there. If so, you have been missing out! This is a free public garden, once again, right in the middle of Spartanburg – you might even say “hidden.” The gardens have beautiful trails to explore with waterfalls, flowers, butterflies, observation decks and more.
820 John B. White Sr. Blvd. Spartanburg, SC 29304
Admission: Free
Anchor Park at Lake Bowen
There are several wonderful lakes to visit around Spartanburg County, but even if you do not own a boat, Lake Bowen’s Anchor Park is a welcoming outdoor space in North Spartanburg. With an excellent enclosed playground that overlooks the lake, you can enjoy great views while your kids run free. Plus, there are picnic tables and grills available. It is also a great spot to find the geese, so be prepared to get up close and personal with some feathered friends as you walk around the park.
8515 Hwy 9 Inman, SC 29349
Admission: Free
Croft State Park
Did you know that Spartanburg is home to one of the largest South Carolina State Parks? Croft State Park, on the Eastside of Spartanburg, is only five minutes from downtown. This state park is huge! It has miles of trails for exploring whether by foot, bike, or horse! Really – it even has equestrian trails.
In addition to all the outdoor trails to explore, there is also a huge lake for fishing and other water activities. Plus, families can extend their visits by camping on site. The park also hosts events regularly like the monthly Music in the Woods event. It is free for those under five years of age and only $3 for adults and $1 for children 6-15 years old.
450 Croft State Park Rd Spartanburg, SC 29302
Admission: $3 for adults | $1 for children 6-15 | Free for 5 and under
Cottonwood Trail
Cottonwood Trail is a nature preserve that protects a wonderful outdoor space near downtown Spartanburg. Recognized as an “urban green space,” Cottonwood Trail allows visitors to spend time outdoors while remaining close to the city.
The trail is clearly marked and is easy for even the littlest hikers, and they will love trekking across the various footbridges. While on the trail, you should expect to see plenty of wooded areas and wildlife, but you should also spend some time visiting the other connected trails that are part of the preserve, such as the Wetlands Trail.
Accessed off Beechwood Drive (off Fernwood Drive) Spartanburg, SC 29307
Admission: Free
For those looking for other outdoor spaces in Spartanburg, don’t forget that Downtown Spartanburg also offers plenty of outdoor dining options, as well as Sparkle City Mini Putt.
What’s your favorite outdoor location in Spartanburg?
Have you explored the Greenville County library system? KAG Contributor, Nova, is sharing a rundown of all the things the library offers, and it’s so much more than books! Check out storytimes, craft events, homeschool meet-ups and learning opportunities, plus summer reading and even events for grown-ups. There’s so much happening at the Greenville County Libraries. Best of all, there’s no cost for these programs! We know our readers love free things to do in Greenville!
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.
