A few months ago, I made a return trip to Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve. Located in Kershaw, South Carolina, on the eastern side of Lancaster County, it is one of the most diverse protected areas in the piedmont.
The Preserve encompasses some 2965 acres and is home to giant boulders, a beaver pond, mini-waterfalls, granite flat rocks, hardwood and pinewood forests, creeks, wildflowers, caves, and a variety of wildlife. At the top of it all is a humongous standing rock from which the Preserve gets its name. Although it’s only 14 acres, it still provides breathtaking landscape views of the surrounding area.
There are two parking areas from which Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve can be accessed. I’ve always started my adventures from the upper trailhead parking lot. A roughly one-half mile, well defined, sandy path that meanders through a forest of pines and hardwoods, that eventually leads to the Preserve’s namesake. Along the trail, depending on the time of year, you may be treated to colorful wildflowers as well.
Being early November, I didn’t have the pleasure of seeing too many wildflowers. I was, however, treated to a magnificent display of autumn colors as you’ll see in the many photos below.
The lower trailhead is located on the opposite side of the Preserve. From this entrance, the hike starts directly in the forest. Here, you will find yourself awed by an amazing garden of boulders that are scattered along the trail and amongst the trees. As you continue along the trail, you’ll come upon the beaver pond, which is covered in lily pads. I’m sure in the summer, when the water lilies are in full bloom, this is quite a sight to see. Eventually, after a bit of hiking, you’ll work your way around to the top of Forty Acre Rock.
Regardless of which trailhead you start from, you’re going to be in for a treat. Both are out and back loop trails, but if your interest solely lies in seeing the scenic views from the top of Forty Acre Rock, be sure to choose the upper trailhead.
If you find yourself in the Kershaw area, be sure to check out Forty Acre Rock Heritage Preserve. You won’t be disappointed, especially if it’s during the autumn months.
I hope you enjoy the photos I took during this adventure, all of which are available in a variety of print options as well as digital download. Looking for something else? Check out my Photo Collections, where the perfect print awaits you. Also, you can find a video of this adventure on my Instagram page. Please be sure to give a follow while you’re there. Thanks for taking the time to stop by today. I look forward to seeing you on one of our many adventures. Have a fantastic day!
