Nature's Gym
Croft State Natural Area
By Benjamin Higgins Higginsb2@yahoo.com

Set in the thick woods of southern Spartanburg County, Croft State Natural Area is a picturesque wilderness park ideal for a day- long outing or weekend camping trip.

This 7,054- acre park was an Army training base during World War II. Today, Croft features some of the most beautiful hiking and equestrian facilities within the S.C. State Park System.

Croft offers two hiking trails, the Horace Craig Trail and a nature trail, both of which are light to moderate in difficulty.

The nature trail takes visitors near Fairforest Creek, and pine and hardwood trees are in copious supply along the path. Birds, deer, and squirrels can also be found. Many roots line the path.

Beyond its hiking trails, Croft is an excellent place to enjoy horseback riding. The park has an arena that is regularly used for horse shows and has more than 20 miles of equestrian trails and 55 horse stalls. The park does not, however, offer any horses for rent.

The 3.5 mile Fairforest Creek equestrian trail. Admittedly, this trail is on horseback, as the hills are quite steep and horses are inclined to leave behind remnants of their visits.

Certain sections are also extremely narrow with widths of no more than two or three feet. This equestrian trail passes directly by the tiny rapids of Fairforest Creek and offers some of the best views of plant life in the park.

The trail leads to many other paths, but it is essential to stay on the main route.

Croft was thoroughly cleared of military equipment by the U.S. Army Corp of Engineering in the mid- 1940s when the U.S. military decommissioned it as a base. However, visitors are still advised not to pick up any unfamiliar objects they might find on the trails. The park also strongly encourages visitors to stay on the clearly marked paths.

Croft provides fishing and boating opportunities at two lakes where fishermen can reel in bass, bream, catfish, and crappie. A small playground is available for the kids.

Interpretative signs detailing Croft's history and its role in World War II can be found along the trail.

Like many of South Carolina's 47 state parks, Croft provides numerous camping opportunities at reasonable prices. It is an ideal destination for visitors who would like to experience South Carolina in its most natural state just five miles from metropolitan Spartanburg.

For more information on Croft State Natural Area, call (864) 585- 1283 or visit www.southcarolinaparks. com.