COLUMBIA, S.C. —
Sesquicentennial State Park recently highlighted what goes on behind the scenes to keep its grounds safe and enjoyable for visitors as South Carolinians celebrate National Wilderness Month.
“There's a lot of maintenance behind the scenes of keeping up these 80-plus-year-old buildings and facilities and keeping up with the new facilities we have and the new people that are coming out to the park,” John Wells, a park ranger at Sesquicentennial State Park, said.
South Carolina has 47 state parks. Sesquicentennial State Park is around 1,400 acres, including trails, campsites and boat rentals.
“It's a lot of grass, a lot of weed eating, cleaning the trails, making sure any limbs or trees that are down that we were able to get them out of the way and make it a safe place for people," Wells said. "It's a big job just going around checking picnic tables and make sure they're all good to go."
On Sunday, people were at the park, enjoying the sun, paddling in the water, and celebrating birthdays.
“I think it’s fun, and it gives you a sense of belonging," visitor Noelle Lewis said. "It protects nature and gives other people a chance to experience it.”
“I like to come out here practically every day and just kind of walk out and commune with nature and try to fill my spirit with goodness,” another visitor, Paul Westfall, said.
The park does not allow anything that will harm the wildlife or environment, such as balloons and confetti.
“Just leave no trace, where you want to leave it like you found it, if not better,” Wells said.
Admission to Sesquicentennial State Park ranges from $3.50 to $6, depending on a visitor's age. The park is open daily from around 8 a.m. until sunset.