Public asked to provide input on new S.C. state park

This will be first new S.C. state park built in 20 years

The SCDNR and South Carolina State Parks have invited the public to provide input on the “Black River Water Trail & Park Network.” This proposed idea will include a series of parks connected by the Black River in the Pee Dee region.

Numerous parks already exist along the 70 mile stretch of the Black River that runs through Williamsburg and Georgetown Counties. A new state park will be added. And improvements will be made to offer river-goers easy access to the existing parks as well as the new park.

Several state and local government agencies are involved in the process. Numerous non-profit organizations and volunteers have also been pitching in with ideas. And they’re welcoming more outdoor enthusiasts to participate in the planning.

Share your ideas through surveys and upcoming meetings

Ideas they are looking for include the best locations for paddling routes, community information kiosks, picnic areas, trails, and potential cabin locations. They are also looking for input on areas to locate new access points for launching boats, kayaks, and canoes on the river.

The public can provide their input through two surveys. Click here to find those surveys. And on May 6, 10, and 11, a series of community meetings offer opportunities for the public to attend and provide their ideas and input.

The May 6 meeting will take place in Georgetown. The May 10 meeting will be in Andrews. And Kingstree will host the May 11 meeting. More information on specific locations will be provided to those completing the surveys linked above.

The link provided also shows a complete list of groups that are currently involved in the planning stages.

“This initiative presents an important opportunity for people who love and respect the Black River to create a shared vision and plan fr how to provide outdoor recreational opportunities for the communities along this waterway, as well as visitors, for generations to come,” said Bill Marshall, leader of SCDNR’s Scenic Rivers program.