The Hampton Plantation State Historic Site, located in McClellenville, South Carolina, provides guests with an incredible and poignant history lesson under its mighty live oaks. The 274-acre park, which is highlighted by a Georgian-style mansion, was gifted to the state by South Carolina poet laureate Archibald Rutledge in 1971, as he knew it would be maintained in its traditional form. George Washington visited this home in 1791. This park acts as an interpretive site for plantation life, including slavery, and also for the residents who lived on the property as free people after emancipation for generations. Aside from it historical lessons, guests can also learn about the Santee Delta's natural beauty. Park attendance is free, but there is a nominal fee to enter the mansion. Tours of the mansion are available, as well as a full calendar of Colonial and Antebellum re-enactments and demonstrations. Fishing is permitted in Wambaw creek with a valid South Carolina fishing license. A gift shop is on site, as well as a two-mile nature trail, with excellent birding opportunities. Pets are allowed on a 6-foot leash. The grounds are open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The mansion is open Tuesday through Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. from March through October. It is open from Thursday through Sunday from November through February. Guided tours are offered on these days, with the last tour beginning at 3 p.m. The park is closed Christmas Day. Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is located at 1950 Rutledge Road. It is 16 miles south from Georgetown or 35 miles north of Charleston on U.S. Highway 17. For more information, call 843-546-9361.
