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Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

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11 Inspiring Reasons to Visit Hampton Plantation SC in 2024

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site Is A Lowcountry Gem

I’ve been to Hampton Plantation in Georgetown SC a number of times and I always discover new things with each visit.

Situated just a few miles from the charming Southern town of McClellanville, S.C., Hampton is a beautifully preserved 18th-century estate that provides a window into the history of the area.

From the stunning architecture of the centuries-old house to the nature trails that wind through forest and swamp, there are plenty of reasons to add Hampton Plantation to your travel itinerary.

In this post, I’ll share my Hampton Plantation photos as well as my top 11 reasons why you should consider visiting this Plantation on your next trip to South Carolina.

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“It is a place alive with meanings, hints and whispers, with form and shapes, tinged by starlight. Night is poetry, poignant and deep.”

Archibald Rutledge Former Owner Of Hampton

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

The Hampton Plantation State Historic Site encompasses 274 acres that feature natural beauty and centuries of history.

Short walking trails give you a sense of the Eden-like wilderness of a Lowcountry estate that has changed very little over the last few hundred years.

Here are some of the most inspiring reasons to visit Hampton Plantation SC.

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1. Discover A Rich History That Spans Centuries

The original core of the Hampton Plantation House was built in 1735 by Noe Serre, a French Huguenot. It was a two-story structure with a central hall, which is typical of Southern houses of the time.

In 1757, the plantation came into the possession of Daniel Horry through marriage, and shortly thereafter he more than doubled the size of the original house.

A second full story was added and extensions made to both ends—a ballroom on one side and a master bedroom on the other.

The ballroom (or Long Room as it was called) is 42-feet long and the yellow pine boards (cut on the property) are all one length. It is said to be the longest floorboards used in America.

The ceiling arches 28 feet high, and is made by huge cypress bows pinned together in eight pieces.

The fireplace in the ballroom is amazing, measure more than seven feet wide. You would definitely need a large fire to keep that large room warm.

Check out my favorite plantation tours in Charleston SC .

During the Revolutionary War, the plantation home served as a place of refuge for women and children.

Legend has it that the rice fields surrounding the property hid Francis Marion (the Swamp Fox) when British troops arrived at Hampton Plantation in search of him.

The Horry family owned two other plantations along the South Santee River which totaled up to just under 6,000 acres.

2. Discover Amazing Architecture

Hampton Plantation’s Georgian-style mansion is a striking example of 18th-century architecture. The rooms are enormous, with large fireplaces being the only means of heat.

In order to ensure symmetry of appearance, Horry had false shuttered windows placed on the front walls of these additions.

A large portico was added in 1791. Family legend says this was the back of the home until this addition of eight great pillars. The pillars are made of solid yellow pine and are about 24 inches in circumference.

There are 12 rooms that you can learn about and explore during a Hampton Plantation tour of the house, including a room in which the walls contain decorative painting known as “faux bois” (French for fake wood).

During the house tour, visitors learn how Hampton Plantation was constructed and how it changed over time. 

Hampton is said to be South Carolina’s finest example of a large two-and-one-half story frame Georgian plantation house. It was listed in the National Register on April 15, 1970 and designated a National Historic Landmark.

3. Scenic Surroundings And Relaxation

Hampton Plantation is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, including majestic oak trees, serene marshlands, and the winding Wambaw Creek, which is a tributary of the South Santee River.

There are two trails you can take. One explores the plantation’s natural beauty and the other explains its history through a series of signs.

The trails take you through through pine forests and the remains of rice fields that once stretched as far as the eye could see.

There are also acres of “wild gardens” that were starting to bloom during my last visit. It’s an inviting place to stroll because you never know what you will see around the next bend in the trail.

Flowering plants are sprawled around here and there, wherever it was suitable to place them apparently.

Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens or simply sitting on the porch and taking in the stunning views, the plantation provides a serene and peaceful atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation.

Wandering through the paths at Hampton Plantation is a treat, but I also highly recommend visiting the Bulow Plantation Ruins Historic State Park in Florida. The ruins were once a working sugar plantation that was burned by the Seminoles in the 1830s.

4. Educational Opportunities

The plantation offers educational tours and programs that provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the Lowcountry region.

Walking the paths of the nature trail, visitors can learn about how the rice plantation operated with informational wayside signs. There are also signs explaining the slave population that kept the plantation running.

It’s interesting to see the area where archaeologists have discovered building foundations, a tea pot, blue beads and a coin, which may have come from the slave quarters part of the plantation.

You can also learn the story of the freed people who made their homes in the Santee Delta region for generations after emancipation.

5. Special Events at Hampton

Hampton Plantation State Park hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including hikes with a park ranger on the first Thursday of each month. The hikes cover a different topic each time, ranging from tree species to the history of the landscape.

Because of its remote location, Hampton Plantation is also a great place to stargaze. Check the plantation’s website for dates of this special event.

Hampton Plantation Park holds an annual living history day in April where visitors can learn about South Carolina in the 18th and 19th centuries from historic interpreters and reenactors.

Want to learn how to make a sweetgrass basket? Hampton Plantation holds special classes throughout the year.

6. Don’t Forget Your Camera

With its beautiful architecture, stunning scenery, and rich history, Hampton Plantation is a popular destination for photographers looking to capture the essence of the Lowcountry.

Wander around the plantation’s trails and you will find a variety of scenes to shoot, from graceful live oaks to tall pines and from sandy trails through the swamps to pine-covered passes through stands of ancient timber.

And don’t forget the gardens and the wildlife. You will see plenty of flowers and may catch a glimpse of a deer, turkey…or even an alligator.

7. A Perfect Day Trip!

Hampton Plantation is easily accessible from major highways and is just a short drive from the charming town of McClellanville. If you’re in Myrtle Beach or Charleston, it makes a perfect daytrip!

You can spend the morning at Hopsewee Plantation , grab some lunch in their tea room and then explore Hampton in the afternoon.

The charming town of Georgetown, S.C. is only about 20 minutes away as well. You can grab a bite to eat here, shop, or stroll along their Harborwalk.

8. Learn About Hampton Plantation’s Occupants

Well, this is probably in my top five reasons for visiting Hampton Plantation. One of its owners was Archibald Rutledge, a wonderful writer of more than 300 articles, stories and books, and the first poet laureate of South Carolina.

I first learned about Archibald after reading his book Home by the River . He also has a beautiful holiday book called Carolina Christmas: Enduring Holiday Stories .

Archibald was the last private owner of the plantation, and lived in the main house until 1969. He owned 2,000 acres of which the state of South Carolina owns 274 acres today.

You can also learn about the other occupants of Hampton Plantation. The Horrys, Pinckney and Rutledge families were all from politically and economically prominent South Carolina families, making for an interesting and intriguing tour.

9. Two Cemeteries To Explore

I know many people don’t find cemeteries interesting, but I think they are beautiful and serene places to visit . Hampton Plantation State Park has two cemeteries.

One is the family cemetery where Archibald Rutledge, the last private owner of the estate, and his family are buried.

They were laid to rest within a small brick-fenced area with simple flat stones marking their burial site.

There is a second cemetery on the property that is just as beautiful and historic as the Rutledge cemetery.

It is the Hampton Plantation slave cemetery, where generations of African Americans are buried, including Archibald Rutledge’s best friend Prince Allston.

Related Post: The McLeod Plantation Historic Site in Charleston, S.C., has a Gullah Cemetery where generations of its enslaved community are buried.

Archibald writes of the cemetery in his book Home By The River :

Deep in the fragrant heart of the plantation greenwood there is a sacred inviolate tract, set aside long before the Revolution as a burial ground for the Negroes. Here the yellow jasmine riots over pines, azaleas, myrtles and dogwoods. Here the mocking bird pours forth his iridescent song. Here nature seems always to tremble with bridal loveliness.”

Archibald Rutledge’s best friend Prince Allston is buried there. He says of Prince:

“From earliest childhood we were inseparable companions. He had a kinship with nature that was as unfeigned as it was intimate. Because he interpreted nature and her children to me, I cannot ever again have my vision clarified, my heart made aware of wonder, by this humble counselor of mine. But always I can be grateful for all that his unassuming companionship meant to me.”

10. If You Love Trees…

If your idea of a beautiful Southern plantation includes live Oak trees with Spanish moss laden limbs, then you will not be disappointed at Hampton Plantation.

The front yard of the estate is interspersed with sprawling majestic trees whose far-reaching branches are draped with the long strands of gray moss.

Walk around and explore a landscape that reflects the mystical charm of a Southern estate.

11. Learn About Washington’s Oak: 220+ Years Old

The large tree you see standing in front of Hampton Plantation is called “The Washington Oak.”

In 1791 when Washington made his triumphal tour of the South, he stayed at Hampton Plantation. The tree was said to have been 40 years old at that time.

According to a story handed down by the family, Mrs. Horry was considering cutting the tree down because it stood right in front of the house and blocked the view.

George Washington told them to leave the tree, and there it stands today.

It’s amazing to be able to touch this living thing that George Washington saw and touched.

The only thing I can compare it to is seeing Washington’s actual war tent that is on display at the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia.

Bonus: The Hidden Bell

Hampton Plantation Tours

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is tucked away among live oaks and magnolias less than an hour south of Myrtle Beach and about an hour north of downtown Charleston.

Exploring the grounds is free, but guided tours of the house cost $10.

Other house tour prices: S.C. Seniors are $6. Youth ages 6 to 15 are $5. Children 5 and younger are free.

Hampton Plantation State Historic Park is open April through September from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. From October through March the grounds are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Guided Mansion Hours : Friday through Tuesday at noon and 2 p.m.

Visitors can wander the plantation grounds and along Wambaw Creek and see the remains of rice fields that once stretched as far as the eye could see. 

If You Go To Hampton Plantation

I visited Hampton on February, so the weather was cool, perfect for exploring.

If you go during the warmer months, make sure you bring bug repellant . The water from the nearby creek and swamps makes the house and state park walking trails a feeding ground for mosquitos.

There is a small gift shop that offers books, gifts and art reflective of South Carolina Lowcountry history.

Pets are allowed outdoors but must be on a leash.

How Do You Find Hampton Plantation McClellanville SC?

Hampton Plantation is easy to find. It’s located at Hampton Plantation 1950 Rutledge Rd, McClellanville, SC, which is right off Route 17.

Follow the signs to Hampton Plantation.

Where To Stay Near Hampton Plantation

Your best bet for Hampton Plantation lodging is to stay in Myrtle Beach or Charleston and spend a day or two visiting South Carolina plantations.

Boone Hall is close to Charleston, as is Middleton Place . (Both have beautiful gardens).

If you stay in Charleston and love trees, don’t miss the legendary Angel Oak on Johns Island.

Wrap-Up Of Hampton Plantation

As you can see there is a lot to do at this South Carolina State Historical Park no matter what your interests.

In addition to those listed above, Hampton Plantation also offers opportunities for fishing, geocaching and birdwatching.

A visit to Hampton Plantation provides a thought-provoking and educational experience, as well as a chance to appreciate the splendor of South Carolina’s natural surroundings, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Author and Travel Blogger

Jessica James is an award-winning historical fiction author and life-long Gettysburg resident who loves sharing her passions for history and travel. She enjoys exploring the back roads of the USA and uncovering stories about unique destinations, cultures and almost-forgotten history.

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Come Visit Hampton National Historic Site

Hampton National Historic Site preserves the core of what was once a vast 25,000-acre estate owned by the Ridgely family from 1790 – 1948.

A family of great prosperity, the Ridgelys amassed a large fortune in the eighteenth century through the success of the family-owned Northampton ironworks. The family business and estate were supported by the labor of enslaved African Americans, European indentured servants, and paid laborers. In 1783, Captain Charles Ridgely, the first owner of the estate, began construction on the Hampton mansion which boasted a late-Georgian architectural style and the finest luxuries of the time including scenic gardens.

Centuries later, in 1948, the site was preserved by the National Park Service based on the architectural significance of the mansion. In 1980 the Lower Farm, including original slave quarters and farmhouse, was added to the site. Today there are nearly 63 acres to explore.

Guided tours of the historic mansion are offered Thursday-Sunday. Tours typically run 45-60 minutes. More information on tour times and availability can be  found here . Reservations are not required to tour the mansion but groups of ten or more should call ahead to  arrange a visit .

Seasonally we offer special programs and events. Check our  calendar  for more information.

The park grounds are open daily for enjoyment. Hampton NHS is home several state champion trees, a falling garden, dozens of historic structures, and various birds and other wildlife.

Be sure to follow us on  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  Instagram  for the latest updates, including park closures and changes in events.

Exploring South Carolina’s Peaceful Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

• Post author: Rachel Means
• Post last modified: 2023-10-25

Tucked away off of US 17, the main route between Charleston and Myrtle Beach, SC, are the quiet remains of Hampton Plantation State Historic Site.

There are plenty of old plantations in South Carolina, but this one is a protected South Carolina state park and National Historic Landmark thanks to its incredible history. Stop by for a few hours of exploring South Carolina’s origins!

This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and associate of other programs, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Top 5 Tips to Know Before Visiting Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

• Exploring the grounds is free , but the House Tour is well-worth the small fee.
• BUG SPRAY is not optional here, especially in the summer.
• Easy half day trip from either Charleston or Myrtle Beach!
• House Tours are guided only , available Friday through Tuesday at noon and 2PM .
• Pets allowed outside, but not in the House

>> The Ultimate Outsider stamp is at a kiosk by the restrooms, a few short steps from the parking lot. <<

How to Get to Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

This park is rural but surprisingly easy to reach thanks to the coastal highway, US 17. You’ll turn off of US 17 onto a narrow two-lane road and continue for about 2 miles. The park will be on the right.

Hampton Plantation is just 20 minutes from Georgetown, SC and halfway between Charleston and Myrtle Beach, SC.

It’s a little less than 1.5 hours from Myrtle Beach and a little more than an hour from Charleston, making this site an easy half day trip from either vacation hot-spot.

If you’re coming in from upstate or further afield, we recommend having other items on your to-do list. We wouldn’t say this park justifies a full day’s exploration by itself.

There are a few other state parks within a couple hours’ drive of Hampton Plantation, if you’re also working on your Ultimate Outsider South Carolina State Parks bucket list .

• Huntington Beach State Park , 1 hour
• Charles Town Landing State Historic Site , 1 hour 10 minutes
• Myrtle Beach State Park , 1 hour 20 minutes

We’ve visited Hampton Plantation, Huntington Beach’s Atalaya Castle , and Myrtle Beach state parks all in one day, and it wasn’t too rushed.

Just beware of trying that on a busy summer weekend. You may find yourself stuck in a long entry line at Huntington Beach or Myrtle Beach.

How Much Does It Cost? Do I Need a Permit?

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is free entry to explore the grounds!

House tours, however, are a paid program (and totally worth it). Stop in the park office/gift shop to pay the small fee. Adults (16+) are $10, seniors are $6, kids ages 6-15 are $5, and kids 5 and under are free.

Pro Tip : A South Carolina State Parks Annual ALL Park Passport covers the cost of the House tour at Hampton Plantation for up to 4 people. A 7 day ALL Park Passport is also available for a reduced fee, and could be cost effective if you plan it right. Purchase a pass either online ahead of your trip (leaving enough time for the pass to arrive before you leave), or at any park that collects fees.

A freshwater fishing license is required for fishing in Wambaw Creek on the back (north) border of the park property. Prices vary based on residency. Check the South Carolina DNR website for current rates.

What Happened at Hampton Plantation?

Hampton Plantation dates back to the pre-Revolution colonial era.

If you’ve spent any time in South Carolina you’ve probably heard the names Horry, Pinckney, and Rutledge. All three politically prominent families have owned the property at one point.

During the American Revolution, the rice fields at Hampton Plantation helped hide Francis Marion , the famous “swamp fox”, from British troops.

After the war, President George Washington stopped here during his southern tour of the newly established United States.

He’s credited with advising the owners to save the enormous live oak tree just a few steps from the mansion’s front door. The tree is known today as the Washington Oak thanks to that legend.

Hampton Plantation flourished and grew into a huge rice plantation with fields as far as you could see, built entirely off of forced labor from hundreds of enslaved people that lived here.

The plantation functioned on the task system rather than the harsh gang system, which worked crews from sunrise to sunset. Slaves were given a task to complete each day and allowed their own unsupervised time once that task was done.

Of course, this doesn’t mean they had tons of free time, nor that the situation was acceptable. They still had hard labor tasks, like hand-digging drainage ditches for the rice fields, but it was generally slightly better than the gang system.

During the Civil War , Hampton was too far from anything to gain the Union Army’s notice, so it survived intact.

In fact, many of the slaves had been transferred to a different plantation owned by the family on the Mississippi River before the war even began.

After the war , some of the formerly enslaved families that were still at Hampton opted to stay put.

They built better homes and farmed small sections for themselves to feed their families, and watched as the huge fields beyond slowly grew over and disappeared to history.

Descendants of these families still live in the area nearby, tend to the African American cemetery, and contribute to the park’s historical archives.

The last private owner of Hampton Plantation was Archibald Rutledge, South Carolina’s first poet laureate . Born well after the Civil War, he spent some time at Hampton Plantation as a child and then didn’t return for another 30 years.

He lived in the main house with members of his family, reordering the rooms and handling some renovations, but largely leaving the house as it was. Archibald even ran an amateur museum out of the house’s long room (the ballroom).

In 1969, the family left the house and sold off most of the furnishings. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1970 due to its architectural and structural features.

The family then sold the land to the State of South Carolina in 1971, when it was declared a state historic site in the state’s park system.

What to Do at Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

Take a self-guided stroll through antebellum history via the park’s trails and informative plaque exhibits, and don’t miss a guided tour of the Hampton Plantation House, a National Historic Landmark.

Pro Tip : You can be in and out of this park in 2-3 hours, including the House Tour.

Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Grounds

The best way to see Hampton Plantation is to just walk around.

(If it’s summer, apply copious amounts of bug spray first, but it’s still a good idea to walk around.)

Start under the huge live oaks by the visitor center and then walk towards the house. A small rice field section remains, which the park uses to demonstrate the various phases of rice production.

At the height of production, none of the underbrush would have been here. All the swampy areas you can see would have been cultivated rice fields with water levels controlled by the hand-dug canals and rice trunks.

Take some time to see the House and the huge Washington Oak tree out front. The kitchen building is also intact and worth a stroll out back to see Wambaw Creek.

There are a few trails on the property, all easy and flat but not accessible.

• The Piney Woods Nature Trail is 1.5 miles, best for birding and viewing the forested area and includes the African American cemetery, still tended today by descendants of the enslaved.
• The Enslaved Settlement Trail is 0.5 miles and circles the area that used to be the slave quarters. The informational plaques provide a glimpse into antebellum life.
• The Rutledge Garden and Holly Avenue trail is 0.5 miles and circles the House and front lawn. It also leads to the Rutledge Family cemetery on the back of the property, where Archibald Rutledge is buried.

>> At a minimum, we recommend walking the Enslaved Settlement Trail and then continuing on to the House, the Washington Oak, and the back lawn to the river.

Tour the Hampton Plantation House

Ranger-led House tours are held every Friday through Tuesday, twice a day at noon and 2PM. If you’re visiting on one of these days, we highly recommend timing it so you can make a house tour!

While these tours do require a fee, it’s 100% worth it. The fee is pretty small but the information provided is huge.

Don’t Forget : an Annual ALL Park Passport covers the cost of the House tour for up to 4 people, plus admission to every South Carolina State Park for a year.

The House features that amazing columned portico that was added in preparation of George Washington’s visit, but before that portico was added, that was the back of the house.

Plantation homes usually faced the waterways, since that was the faster transportation method and how most guests arrived.

It used to take two days to get to Charleston from here; it’s now a 1 hour drive.

The interior of the home has been preserved, restored, and left alone in various states so you can see how the house functioned throughout its life.

The colonial era faux wood wall painting , the bell pulley system to call servants, and even some wallpaper from the 1930’s can all be seen in this house.

Structural features are laid bare in some rooms, letting you see how this home was built without nails . That’s right, not a single nail used in the original structure.

The 1886 Charleston Earthquake left its mark here at Hampton Plantation, too. The marble fireplace in the ballroom is cracked and lifted, and you can see and feel in the first floor bedroom how the house sank.

There’s even childhood graffiti from the 1700’s where the children wrote their names and the date on a door.

If historic homes interest you, this is worth your time!

Admire the Washington Oak Tree

Like every other coastal plantation in South Carolina, there are many absolutely gorgeous live oak trees here. Don’t forget the beautiful magnolia trees either.

The show stopper here is the enormous Washington Oak Tree.

This tree was already pretty big when President George Washington stopped by in 1791. The hostess asked if the tree should be removed to improve the view, and Washington said to let it stand.

The family referred to it as Washington’s Oak ever since , and the tree has grown into a behemoth beauty, sprawling across the sky.

It’s a photographer’s wonderland, here at Hampton Plantation; you’ll never have big crowds here, getting in the way of your shot. At most, you’ll have to wait 5 minutes for a family to move on to their next spot.

The park is also home to plenty of wildlife, and flowers of one type or another are in bloom almost year-round. Come get your dreamy southern photos here!

Fishing is allowed in Wambaw Creek, just past the house. Bring lots of bug spray and your freshwater fishing license, and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.

Caution: Alligators live here . They’re going to ignore you so long as you don’t threaten them, but give them plenty of space and be careful when fishing. A fish in distress can attract a gator.

Enjoy a Picnic under the Live Oaks

If you’re here for the midday House tour, there’s a good chance you’ll want to eat lunch while you’re here. Pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the tables by the gift shop!

Pro Tip : We don’t suggest this in the summer. There are too many bugs. Eat in your car with the AC, or plan an early lunch elsewhere before you arrive at the park.

Boating/Kayaking/Canoeing

The park doesn’t rent equipment and does not have a boat launch on site.

However, there are companies that can provide equipment so you can paddle down Wambaw Creek and a portion of the South Santee River. Make arrangements in advance.

Enjoy Visiting Hampton Plantation State Historic Site!

Spend a few hours walking the grounds and touring the National Historic Landmark main house at Hampton Plantation for a unique look into colonial and antebellum South Carolina.

An easy day trip any time of year, come explore this unique South Carolina state park!

Combine a trip to Hampton Plantation State Historic Site with one of these other nearby sites:

• The Top 5 Best Plantations to Visit in Charleston, SC
• Guide to Huntington Beach State Park’s Atalaya Castle
• Visiting Charles Town Landing State Historic Site
• How to Spend a Day at Myrtle Beach State Park

More SC State Park s We’ve Visited

• Andrew Jackson
• Battle of Rivers Bridge
• Charles Towne Landing
• Colonial Dorchester
• Edisto Beach
• Givhans Ferry
• Hampton Plantation
• Hunting Island
• Huntington Beach
• Kings Mountain
• Lake Greenwood
• Lake Warren
• Landsford Canal
• Myrtle Beach

Is an Annual South Carolina State Park Pass Worth It? In most cases, yes, but check out the full cost breakdown to find out if it’s right for you!

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Rachel Means

With six-figure student loan debt and only 10 PTO days per year, Rachel started traveling the world. A decade later, she’s paid off her loans, changed careers, and been to 36 US states and 14 countries. She’s an expert at planning and budgeting for travel and loves to help others do it, too! Read her full story here.

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Touring Hampton Plantation State Historic Site in South Carolina

By Jason Barnette | Travel writer and photographer with 15+ years of road tripping experience

• Last Updated on March 8, 2024
• Published on May 26, 2017

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my Affiliate Disclosure here .

The gorgeous house at Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is one of the most authentic and original plantation homes in South Carolina. Take a walk around the grounds, enjoy a guided tour of the house, and learn about the connection with George Washington. That is exactly what I did when I visited on a cool spring day in May.

Guided Tours of the Plantation House

The main attraction of Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is the plantation house. Tours are offered a couple times a day throughout the week and take about 45 minutes. The tours are packed with information about the plantation house, life in the rice fields, and the history of people who passed through here.

After touring the plantation house I realized it was one of the most authentic and untouched plantation homes I had ever visited. Unlike many plantation homes that are eventually updated with plumbing, climate control, and electricity, Hampton Plantation was never modernized. I didn’t see outlet boxes screwed to the baseboard or metal pipes running along the walls painted to match the historic colors. Instead, I found an authentic and rather original mansion.

The day I toured the plantation house a series of thunderstorms swept through the area. The ranger and I got caught inside the house just as the tour ended as a storm passed through. Rather than waste the time we sat on the covered back porch and she told me more stories about this amazing plantation house.

The interior of the plantation house has been left much as it was when first built, with some sections of wall exposing the beams behind.

George Washington Oak Tree

One of the stories I heard on the tour involved our first president, George Washington. Shortly after being elected as the nation’s first president Washington took a “thank you” tour of the South. After visiting Georgetown he crossed over the Santee River and spent a night at Hampton Plantation.

While visiting the plantation the lady of the house asked Washington if he thought a giant oak tree in front of the house should be cut down to provide a better view from the portico. Washington sternly replied the beautiful oak tree should never be cut down.

That tree is still there and is now known as the George Washington Oak Tree.

Hiking Trail

The only hiking trail at Hampton Plantation State Historic site is the 2-mile Hampton Plantation Nature Trail. The trail begins at the parking lot, skirts Wambaw Creek, then loops back through an old rice field.

The trail is a primitive path and not handicap accessible. Walking it takes about 15-20 minutes.

This chimney is all that remained of a home at Hampton Plantation State Historic Site.

National Park Week 2024

Learn about the annual celebration of the National Park System and read my travel guides to national park units across the country.

The gift shop and park office are located in a small building beside the parking lot. It’s a small gift shop with only a few items such as clothing and books for sale.

This is where you would purchase tickets for the guided tour of the plantation house and there is usually a ranger here, during normal operating hours, with a brochure for the park.

The South Carolina Ultimate Outsider stamp is located at a kiosk beside the restrooms near the shop.

Getting to Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

Hampton Plantation State Historic Site is located in McClellanville about halfway between Charleston and Myrtle Beach. It’s within an easy day’s drive of these two popular tourism destinations as well as just fifteen minutes from Georgetown.

The entrance to the state historic site is located about two miles from Highway 17 along a two-lane state route. Interestingly visitors to the state historic site pass Old Georgetown Road, the original route of Highway 17 or “The King’s Highway” and the only section left unpaved. It just might make for a good scenic detour if you are heading back to Charleston.

When to Visit Hampton Plantation State Historic Site

I cannot stress this enough, although this may not be entirely popular with South Carolina State Parks: avoid this state historic site from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

The first time I attempted to visit this park was in early August. I arrived at the park, parked my car in the sandy parking lot, and started walking toward the gift shop to buy a tour ticket. Before I reached the office I felt a little lightheaded.

That’s when I looked down and noticed at least a hundred mosquitoes clinging to my legs and ankles. I immediately ran back to the car, but it was too late. I had been bitten so many times I actually felt sick at my stomach.

Now do not let this story deter you from ever visiting this park. The next time I visited was in mid-May and it was a gorgeous day with very few mosquitoes. But you have to keep in mind this park is located along the swampy Wambaw Creek and is a haven for mosquitoes. You just have to time your visit right.

2 Responses

We stopped by in summer and thought we were mosquitoproof with bug spray… Nope. The nature Trail was closed because or too many snakes and we were warned to look out for the ferrel pigs. Not a nice day at a pretty place. Your experience has given hope to try again at a better time of the year!

I had pretty much the same first experience! It’s a gorgeous home to explore with an amazing history connected to George Washington. Please try to visit again, but maybe in the winter!

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