Discover Pickens
42 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
115 South Palmetto Boulevard
A walkable stretch in downtown Clemson adjacent to campus — pick up shots of brick storefronts, college-town details (Tiger signage, banners), pedestrians and seasonal foliage. Best at golden hour for warm light on masonry; blue hour captures neon and street lamps. Easily accessible on foot from campus with street parking and municipal lots nearby; no entry fees. Weekday mornings are quieter; game days bring vibrant crowds and energy but limited parking.
Tablerock Viewpoint
Clifftop viewpoint in Table Rock State Park offering sweeping Appalachian ridge and valley panoramas, dramatic rock outcrops and fall-color panoramas. Best at golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for warm side-light and long shadows; autumn yields peak foliage. Park has entrance fee and a well-marked lot; short uneven trail and rocky ledges require sturdy shoes. Weekday mornings are quieter; weather can change quickly—bring layers and rain protection for gear.
Table Rock Summit Trailhead
Classic Blue Ridge summit with dramatic granite outcrops, layered ridgelines and seasonal color—ideal for wide vistas, intimate rock textures and fall foliage. Park entry and trailhead parking at Table Rock State Park; trail is steep and rocky (moderate–strenuous). Best light: sunrise for soft backlit ridgelines or late afternoon for warm side light and long shadows. Expect variable weather and bring layers; weekdays and early mornings reduce crowds.
Table Rock State Park
Table Rock State Park centers on the sheer granite Table Rock Mountain and a calm mountain lake — prime for panoramic summit shots, reflected landscapes, fall foliage and intimate trail/stream scenes. Best at sunrise or late afternoon for warm light and long shadows; autumn offers peak color. Trails range from easy lakeside paths to the strenuous summit climb (bring hiking boots). Park has a main parking lot and visitor center; state park entrance/parking fees may apply. Weekdays and early-morn
Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway
Scenic drive along SC-11 through Blue Ridge foothills offering sweeping mountain vistas, rivers, waterfalls and fall foliage. Photograph layered ridgelines at golden hour, roadside overlooks (Caesar’s Head, Table Rock area), historic mountain towns and pastoral scenes. Accessible by car with frequent pull-outs; no entry fees but parking at popular overlooks/trails can be limited. Best in autumn for color, sunrise/sunset for drama; weekdays reduce traffic.
Table Rock State Park
Granite monoliths, forested ridges and a calm lake make Table Rock State Park ideal for classic Appalachian landscape and reflection shots. Photograph the iconic Table Rock summit from lakeside at golden hour, capture fall foliage along Carrick Creek and the dramatic summit views from the Table Rock Trail. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for warm side-light and mirror reflections; fall yields peak color. Park open year-round (state park fees/parking at visitor center), trails vary from easy to
Sassafras Mountain Tower
Sassafras Mountain Tower sits on South Carolina's highest point, offering sweeping Blue Ridge panoramas, layered ridgelines and seasonal color—excellent for sunrise/sunset, cloud inversions and long-range landscape shots. The paved Sassafras Mountain Rd leads to a small free parking area; the short walk to the metal observation tower is easy but can be windy. Best at golden hour and on clear winter mornings for maximum visibility; fall brings dramatic foliage. Weekdays and early mornings reduce,
Keowee-Toxaway State Park
Dramatic lakeshore and forested trails around Lake Keowee and the Toxaway River offer reflections, rocky foregrounds, and seasonal foliage. Best at sunrise/sunset for golden light and calm water; autumn colors amplify composition. Park has day-use access and trailhead parking; expect uneven terrain and some stairs—carry a tripod. Check state park hours and boat activity; weekdays or early mornings reduce crowds.
Botanical Gardens
Clemson University Botanical Gardens offers curated beds, native plant collections, woodland trails, a small pond and seasonal blooms — great for close-up plant and insect studies, intimate landscapes, and serene compositions. Best at golden hour for warm side light, or overcast for even macro lighting. Peak floral interest in spring and early summer and colorful foliage in fall. Grounds are free to the public with nearby campus parking; paths are mostly short and walkable, some wheelchair‑asss
Carrick Creek Falls
Small multi-tiered waterfall in Table Rock State Park framed by rhododendron and granite slabs — great for intimate waterscape and forest compositions. Best after rain for stronger flow; visit at sunrise or late afternoon for soft side light and fewer people. Park has entrance fee and trailhead parking; expect a short, uneven hike and slippery rocks. Fall color and winter ice add variety.
Middle Rachael Creek Falls Trailhead parking
Small trailhead on Alewine Rd leads to Middle Rachael Creek Falls — a photogenic cascade framed by mossy boulders, rhododendron and mixed hardwood forest. Best for intimate waterfall and creek compositions, seasonal foliage and textured close-ups. Visit early morning or after rain for higher flow and soft light; fall brings color and winter can yield icy details. Parking is limited, unpaved; no fee but bring sturdy shoes and insect repellent. Weekdays are quieter.
Grant Meadow Overlook
Roadside overlook with wide panoramas of the Appalachian foothills and a patchwork meadow below — ideal for sweeping landscapes, seasonal color (especially fall) and layered mountain silhouettes. Easy pull-off parking, no fee; best at sunrise or golden hour after clear or post-storm skies. Accessible by vehicle; small crowds on weekdays.
Nine Times Preserve
Wooded preserve with rocky cascades, small waterfalls and winding streams — great for intimate landscape and waterscape shots, seasonal color and long-exposure water blur. Best at golden hour or after rain for peak flow; weekdays reduce hikers. Trails are moderate and rocky — wear sturdy shoes. Small gravel parking at the trailhead on E Preston McDaniel Rd; no gate fee but follow leave-no-trace rules and be careful on wet rocks.
Lake Oolenoy
Small reservoir set in the northern SC foothills offering calm-water reflections, shoreline coves, mature hardwoods and good seasonal color. Photographers can capture mirrored panoramas, intimate waterline details, and golden-hour silhouettes. Best at sunrise or sunset for low-angle light and glassy water; autumn yields vivid foliage. Site is roadside-accessible off E Ellison Ln with a small parking area and short walks to multiple viewpoints—check signage for any access rules and expect limited
Horseback Waterfall Tours
Guided horseback rides lead to secluded waterfalls and forested cascades—great for dynamic nature shots combining horses, riders and flowing water. Best after rainfall for fuller falls; golden hour and overcast days yield soft light and saturated greens. Access is via the tour operator (reservations required); parking available at the ranch. Trails can be muddy; respect animals and guides.
Lazy Bear Winery
Lazy Bear Winery offers rolling vineyard rows, rustic barns, tasting patio and oak trees — ideal for intimate vineyard scenes, portraits with vine lines, and lifestyle shots during tastings. Visit golden hour for warm backlight and long shadows; weekdays or early mornings reduce crowds. Property is rural with on-site parking and casual tasting-room entry (check hours/fees). Seasonal grape foliage and event days add variety; bring insect repellent in summer.
Hanover House
Hanover House is an 18th‑century transplanted Carolina manor on the Clemson campus—timber framing, gabled roof, period gardens and mature trees offer classic architectural and detail shots. Best at golden hour or overcast for even textures; weekdays/early mornings avoid campus foot traffic. Street parking and campus lots nearby; check Clemson University Historic Properties for access hours and any entry restrictions.
Natural Bridge/Raven Rock Trailhead
Small sandstone natural bridge spanning a shaded creek with mossy boulders and a fern-lined trail — ideal for intimate landscape and nature shots, macro textures and long-exposure water. Short, easy hike from the Raven Rock/Natural Bridge trailhead; limited roadside parking on Cabin Rd. Best visits at sunrise or late afternoon for directional light and cooler tones; cloudy days enhance color and reduce contrast. No formal entry fee; practice Leave No Trace and watch slippery rocks after rain.
Carillon Garden
Small, manicured garden centered on Clemson's carillon tower—great for combining architectural shots of the bell tower with seasonal flower beds, formal pathways and campus vistas. Best light is during golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for warm tones and long shadows; spring and fall offer peak color. Public and free to visit; accessible paths and nearby campus parking lots (check campus event schedules). Weekday mornings are quieter for portraits or tripod work.
Upstate Holiday Light Show
Seasonal drive-through and walkable holiday light display—shoot sweeping illuminated tunnels, animated sculptures and reflections on wet pavement. Best photographed at blue hour to retain sky color while lights pop; arrive early evening on weekdays to avoid queues. Site is ticketed/seasonal, accessible by car with on-site parking and family crowds on weekends—bring weatherproof gear for cold or mist.
Long Shoals Wayside Park
Small roadside park on the North Saluda River featuring exposed shoals, riffles and sculpted granite—great for intimate river landscapes, long exposures and seasonal foliage. Easy pull-off on Scenic Hwy 11 with a compact parking area, no fee; short, uneven trails and slippery rocks so wear boots. Best at golden hour or after light rain when flow and reflections pop; fall color and low-water summer textures both reward photography.
Nalley Brown Nature Park
Small, wooded nature park with loop trails, creek crossings and patches of wetland—good for intimate forest scenes, creek long exposures, seasonal wildflowers and birdlife. Visit at golden hour for warm side-lighting through trees; spring and fall offer best color and life. Park at the trailhead lot (short walks to photo points); trails are mostly moderate dirt—sturdy shoes recommended. Weekday mornings are quieter; no permit for casual photography but check for event closures.
Meditation Garden
Small, tranquil campus meditation garden with winding paths, water features and mature plantings — great for intimate nature, reflection and detail shots. Best at sunrise or early morning for soft light and calm water; spring and fall offer peak color. Generally open to the public on Clemson campus; park in nearby campus lots and respect quiet / academic hours. Easy walking access, compact layout ideal for macro and low-angle compositions.
Hopkins Wildlife Habitat Garden
Small but diverse habitat with ponds, marsh plantings, boardwalks and native wildflowers attracting songbirds, waterfowl, dragonflies and butterflies — great for intimate nature and waterscape shots. Best light is early morning and golden hour for reflections and active birds; weekday mornings offer fewer visitors. Grounds are on Clemson campus with easy parking nearby, mostly flat and accessible paths; no admission fee. Seasonal highlights: spring wildflowers, summer dragonflies, fall migrating
Fort Hill: National Historic Landmark
Fort Hill is John C. Calhoun’s Greek Revival plantation house set amid mature live oaks and formal grounds on Clemson University. Photographers can capture strong architectural lines, tree-framed compositions, seasonal color (magnolias, fall foliage) and campus context. Best light is golden hour and blue hour; weekdays and early mornings avoid campus foot traffic. The site is on university property—check Clemson’s visitor info for tours/entry; public viewing from adjacent sidewalks and parking.
Pumpkintown Tree
A solitary, sculptural roadside tree standing in open pasture near Pumpkintown — excellent for dramatic silhouettes, seasonal color and wide rural compositions. Best at golden hour (sunrise or sunset) for warm light and long shadows; clear skies yield strong silhouettes. Accessible from the roadside with informal parking; watch for traffic and farm gates. No entry fees; respect private property and stay on public right-of-way. Spring and fall offer freshest color; winter reveals branch structure
Upstate Gem Mining Company
Small family-oriented gem-mining attraction offering colorful rough gems, sluice boxes and hands-on sifting. Shoot tight macro details of sparkling stones, environmental portraits of families at work, and the textured wood and water troughs. Best on weekday mornings for fewer crowds; indoor/covered areas mean mixed lighting—bring a macro lens, small tripod or good high-ISO body. On-site entry fee applies; parking nearby. Friendly, informal setting that rewards detail and candid storytelling.
Jocassee Gorges Management Area
Jocassee Gorges offers rugged gorges, waterfalls, dense hardwood forest and mirror-like sections of Lake Jocassee — ideal for moody mist, fall color and long-exposure water shots. Access is via trailheads and gravel roads off Highway 178; parking at designated trailheads and boat ramps. No general entry fee but follow state wildlife and management rules; cellphone signal is spotty. Best light: sunrise for lake reflections, golden hour for ridge color, overcast or post-rain for saturated greens &
White Oaks Shelter
A rustic wooden picnic shelter set in oak forest near small streams and trails — great for moody woodland scenes, architectural details (timbers, beams) and seasonal color. Best at golden hour or overcast days for even light; blue hour offers long-exposure mood. Easy roadside access and parking at Back Park Rd; accessible on foot from nearby trailheads. No entry fee; respect park rules and quiet hours.
Fort Rutledge
Small Civil War earthwork and wooded park near Clemson ideal for textured landscape and historical-detail shots: low stone walls, grassy embankments, interpretive markers and surrounding mixed hardwoods. Best at golden hour for warm side-light on earthworks or after rain for saturated greens. Easily accessible by road with informal parking; no entry fee. Expect seasonal color (spring leaves, fall foliage) and few crowds — good for quiet shooting. Trails can be uneven; wear boots.
Class of 1942 Golden Tigers Cadet Life Garden
A small memorial garden on Clemson University's campus featuring formal plantings, pathways, plaques and cadet-era motifs honoring the Class of 1942. Photograph intimate memorial details, seasonal plant textures, and compositional lines of the garden trail. Best at golden hour or blue hour for warm light and soft shadows; spring and fall offer peak color. Easily accessible from campus walkways with nearby visitor parking; respect memorial plaques and quiet atmosphere.
Bob Campbell Geology Museum
Compact geology museum on Clemson campus with striking mineral specimens, fossils and educational displays—great for close-up shots of crystals, textured fossils and interpretive signage. Best photographed on weekday mornings for low crowds; indoor gallery lighting is mixed (spotlights and display glass). Check hours and permit rules (no tripods or flash may be restricted). Free or campus parking nearby on Discovery Ln; building is accessible.
Hillcrest Memorial Park
A quiet memorial cemetery framed by mature oaks and manicured lawns offering intimate landscape and detail shots of headstones, sculptures and seasonal light. Best at golden hour or blue hour for dramatic side-light and long shadows; weekday mornings are least intrusive. Easy roadside access with small parking areas; remain respectful and avoid flash or posed shots of visitors. Good in autumn for color and after light rain for reflective surfaces.
Steel Silo
A tall steel grain silo offering strong geometric shapes and reflective textures against sky and surrounding fields. Shoot for contrast between the silo's cylindrical form and nearby trees/sky; dramatic at golden hour or under storm clouds. Easily visible from McGinty Ct with roadside pull-off parking; verify private property boundaries before approaching. Best visited at sunrise or late afternoon for warm side light and long shadows; weekdays have fewer cars.
Double B Arena
Double B Arena is a mid‑size indoor sports and event venue—shoot dynamic basketball games, concerts, crowd portraits and architectural lines of the bowl and catwalks. Exterior glass and marquee work well at golden hour; interior offers dramatic stage and stadium lighting but variable color temperature. Parking is onsite off Hamburg Rd; arrive early on event nights for parking and ticket/credential checks. Weekday mornings are quiet for scouting; check event schedule and arena rules (tripod/use/fl
Friday Flyers #4 of 6
Small outdoor spot on the edge of Clemson campus popular for weekend frisbee/‘flyers’ gatherings and informal sports — great for action and environmental portraits showing motion against campus trees and nearby houses. Best at golden hour for warm sidelighting and long shadows; weekday evenings or early mornings avoid crowds. Easily accessible on foot or by car from Jersey Lane with street parking; no entry fee. Expect casual student activity; respect players and private yards.
Friday Flyers #3 of 6
Small open field and gathering spot ideal for photographing model aircraft, kites, and action sequences of flying objects against wide Carolina skies. Best at golden hour or late-afternoon for warm side-light and dramatic clouds; also try overcast days for even light and faster shutter speeds. Easy street parking on McGinty Ct; mostly accessible on foot. Expect informal weekend meetups—ask pilots before shooting close-ups.
Friday Flyers #5 of 6
Strode Tower is Clemson University's iconic 81-foot campanile — clean lines, gothic Revival details and surrounding oaks make it a strong subject for architectural and campus landscape photos. Shoot at golden hour or blue hour to capture warm stone against sky; nights offer dramatic backlit silhouette and illuminated clock faces. Easily accessible on campus with short walks from visitor parking; observe university event schedules and respect campus rules. Check drone restrictions (no-fly zones)
The Hunt Cabin
A small historic-style log cabin set against wooded, rolling South Carolina hills—ideal for rustic architectural details, textured wood close-ups, seasonal leaf color and moody forest light. Visit golden hour for warm side light; overcast days for even detail. Likely on or near Clemson property—check campus/forest access rules and parking; approach on foot for quieter compositions. Weekday mornings reduce visitors and maintenance activity.
Friday Flyers #6 of 6
Small outdoor meet spot near Clemson University often used for model aircraft/drone flying and casual gatherings. Photographers can capture dynamic airborne subjects against open sky, silhouettes at golden hour, and candid community portraits. Best visited at sunrise or sunset for warm light and dramatic skies; weekends or Friday evenings are likeliest for activity. Site is roadside-accessible with informal parking on Perimeter Rd; check local rules and obtain permission before photographing or飞
Space Walk of the Tri-County
Indoor family entertainment center with inflatable attractions—great for candid action, portraits of kids, party scenes and detail shots of colorful play structures. Best visited on weekday afternoons for fewer crowds; weekends for lively event coverage. Lighting is mixed artificial (fluorescent/LED) so expect high ISO needs or off-camera flash. Free parking on site; bring permission/waiver for photographing children and check staff rules before shooting.
Pickens Rifle Range
Active outdoor rifle range set in rural woodlands — appealing for documentary/industrial shots of firing lines, backstops, target frames, and textured metal/wood surfaces. Visit weekdays when quiet; obtain permission from range management before shooting. Parking available on-site at 203 Porter Rd; wear ear/eye protection if observing. Best light: golden hour for warm side-lighting on structures and long shadows; overcast for moody, contrast-reduced details.