In Aiken, nature is never far from the heart of the city. Explore Hitchcock Woods, one of the nation’s largest urban forests, where 2,100 acres and 70 miles of sandy trails invite hiking, horseback riding, birding, and quiet time beneath longleaf pines and hardwoods. Nearby, Hopelands Gardens offers 14 acres of winding paths, majestic live oaks, camellias, wetlands, and a dedicated Bird and Butterfly Garden—an easy stop for wildlife watching and photography.

For a different ecosystem, visit the Carolina Bay Nature Preserve, a natural wetland tucked just outside of Downtown, with short walking trails and an observation deck overlooking this unusual habitat.

Venture farther into Aiken County for even more outdoor experiences. Silver Bluff Audubon Center & Sanctuary protects 3,400 acres along the Savannah River and is one of the region’s premier birding destinations. At Aiken State Park, hike through forest and wetlands, fish the park’s lakes, or paddle the scenic South Fork of the Edisto River.