There is more to the Midlands than meets the eye! Visitors can journey to the rolling hills and enjoy a horse race in Aiken, whitewater rafting on the Saluda River, exploring the capital city of Columbia, or the history-enriched city of Camden. Travelers will never run out of things to see and do in the Midlands of South Carolina.

Location | The Palmetto State is bordered to the north by North Carolina, to the southeast by the Atlantic Ocean, and to the southwest by Georgia across the Savannah River. The three main cities in the Midlands of South Carolina are Columbia, Aiken, and Camden. Columbia is a short 10 miles from I-77, 5 miles from I-26, and 68 miles from I-95. Aiken is 67 miles from I-26, 60 miles from I-77, and take Exit 22 for I-20.

Weather | In the summers, the weather tends to be hot and humid, the winters are cold, and it is wet and partly cloudy year round. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 36°F to 92°F and is rarely below 23°F or above 98°F.

When to Visit | If you love college football, visit during the Fall and catch the Gamecocks play at Williams Brice Stadium. If you are wanting to spend your time mostly outdoors with the warm sunshine, we recommend visiting during the Summer months. The parks are beautiful and in full-bloom in Springtime. There really is no “bad time” of year to visit the Midlands of South Carolina!

Let’s Get to the Center | Let’s take a stroll through the 3 main cities through the Midlands of South Carolina and see what they have to offer!

Columbia | Nestled into the heart of the state of South Carolina is our state capital, Columbia. If you are a college football fan, you know the state’s greatest rivalry is between the Clemson Tigers and the Carolina Gamecocks. The University of South Carolina was built upon 200 years of history and tradition, and is the state’s flagship university. 

Entertainment: Whether you come for a day or the weekend, there is always something to enjoy.

• Columbia Fireflies (Minor League Baseball)
• South Carolina Philharmonic Orchestra
• Nickelodeon Theater
• Sally Salamander Walking Tour
• Koger Center for the Arts

Attractions: In Columbia, energy and innovation collide in ways that make it a top-rated place to learn, work, live, and play.

• Riverbanks Zoo and Botanical Garden
• South Carolina State House
• EdVenture Children’s Museum
• Columbia Museum of Art
• Congaree National Park

Dining: The Columbia food scene is buzzing with new and exciting restaurants popping up frequently, while seasoned chefs continue to marvel visitors with their culinary creations. 

• Columbia Food Tours
• The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli
• Mr. Friendly’s New Southern
• Bourbon
• Alodia’s Cucina Italiana

For more information on the state’s capital, visit: www.experiencecolumbiasc.com.

Aiken | Aiken is known for many things, including equine pursuits, the arts, sporting facilities, nature, and even playing a part in our country’s railroad birth. Experience southern charm, the outdoors, and delicious local cuisine.

Entertainment: Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend getaway for two or wanting to enjoy a wonderful retreat where you can reconnect with family and friends, Aiken has something for everyone.

• Aiken County Historical Museum
• Aiken Music Fest
• Art Nook School & Studio
• Aiken Polo Club
• Vizion VR

Attractions: A trip to this bustling city means being outdoors, experiencing history, meandering through beautiful parks, and lots of shopping. While exploring Aiken, one notices their thriving downtown, which hosts world-class equestrian events and all types of festivals. There is always something new to discover!

• Hitchcock Woods & Gateway Park
• PlayLand of Aiken
• Palmetto Golf Club
• Eudora Wildlife Safari Park
• Audubon’s Silver Bluff Sanctuary

Dining: Aiken boasts an incredible abundance of restaurants, cafes, and foodie celebrations, with many being locally owned. There is something tasty for everyone and every budget.

• Malia’s
• What’s Cookin’ Downtown
• Sukiya Japanese Steakhouse
• Aiken Brewing CO
• The Village Cafe

For more information on Aiken, stroll on over to: www.visitaikensc.com.

Camden | Established in 1732, Camden is South Carolina’s oldest inland city. Today, this city boasts a unique and diverse range of shops, eateries, museums, national landmarks, and events to enjoy. One thing is definite, no one can resist Camden’s southern charm!

Entertainment: Steeped in history, Camden will draw you in and keep you entertained throughout your entire visit. If you are a “history buff,” then this city is a must!

• Carolina Cup
• African American Cultural Center
• National Steeplechase Museum
• Hermitage Farms Shooting Sports
• Goodale State Park

Attractions: There is much to see and even more to do in this charming city!

• South Carolina Equine Park
• Camden Battlefield
• Lake Wateree
• Carolina Motorsports Park
• Camden Country Club

Dining: After all your sightseeing and adventures, you will surely work up an appetite! Travelers can dine in one of their many fine restaurants or stop to “refuel” at one of the several local coffee shops.

• Salud Mexican Kitchen
• Sam Kendall’s
• Camden House of Pizza
• The Loopy Lemon
• Haile Street Grill

For more information on Camden, head over to: www.cityofcamden.org.

Happy Camping in the Carolinas | Experience the rolling hills of South Carolina’s Midlands and enjoy everything from the historic sites to the miles of unspoiled riverbanks along the Saluda River. Campers are sure to find their perfect site and experience an unforgettable South Carolina vacation.

So, pack up the camper, grab your tent, and let’s go Camping in the Carolinas. Learn more about the Midlands of South Carolina: discoversouthcarolina.com/midlands