The South Carolina Homestead Life: Rant of a Fed-Up Yet Fired-Up Homesteader

I’m gonna be blunt here—if you think homesteading in South Carolina is just chickens clucking while you sip sweet tea on the porch swing, you better buckle up. This ain’t no damn Magnolia Journal fantasy. It’s sweat, blood, busted knuckles, mosquito bites the size of peaches, and the relentless cry of, “Did something get in the garden again?!”

Living the homestead lifestyle down here in the Palmetto State isn’t for dainty hands or thin skins. It’s for the stubborn, the gritty, and those of us who are damn tired of relying on a system that wouldn’t know self-sufficiency if it smacked it upside the head with a cast iron skillet.

Skill #1: Gardening for Survival, Not Instagram

Down here, you’re battling high humidity, sandy soil in the Lowcountry, red clay in the Upstate, and insects so brazen they’ll eat your tomato plants while you watch. You better know how to amend that soil, rotate crops, and build raised beds that can survive a tropical storm.

Skill #2: Canning and Food Preservation

There ain’t no excuse for wasting produce. If you’re not pressure canning green beans, water bath canning peaches, dehydrating herbs, or freezing squash, what in the hell are you even doing out here?

Skill #3: Rainwater Harvesting

South Carolina summers will flood you one week and dry you up the next. You NEED to learn to set up a proper rain catchment system. Gutters, barrels, first flush diverters—you name it. Water is life, and if you don’t catch it, you’ll pay for it (literally and metaphorically).

DIY Hack #1: Garbage Can Rain Barrel
Take a $20 heavy-duty trash can, drill a spigot hole at the bottom, screen the top for debris, and boom—instant rain barrel. Slap on some mosquito dunks and you’re off to the races.

Skill #4: Raising Chickens (And Protecting Them)

You might think you’ve built Fort Knox for your hens, but raccoons, hawks, foxes, and even neighborhood dogs are all plotting against you. Learn to build a predator-proof coop, or prepare for heartbreak.

Skill #5: Composting Like a Pro

If you’re throwing out kitchen scraps, you’re doing it wrong. Every eggshell, banana peel, and spent plant should be feeding your compost pile. Don’t waste what you can turn into black gold.

Skill #6: Seed Saving

Why the hell would you buy seeds every year when you can save them? Learn how to dry and store seeds from heirloom plants, because depending on supply chains is for amateurs.

Skill #7: Butchering Your Own Meat

Whether it’s chickens, rabbits, or deer you process yourself during hunting season—know how to butcher. Meat doesn’t grow on grocery store shelves. It takes skill, respect, and a sharp knife.

Skill #8: Basic Carpentry

You’ll be building fences, sheds, chicken tractors, and fixing what the wind blew down last night. Better know your way around a level and a circular saw.

Skill #9: Fermentation and Brewing

From sourdough starter to homemade wine or mead—learn how to ferment. It preserves your harvest and boosts your gut health. Plus, homemade peach wine hits different after a long day of work.

Skill #10: Livestock Husbandry

Whether it’s goats for milk, pigs for meat, or bees for honey, South Carolina’s climate is great for small livestock. But you better know how to trim hooves, assist births, and treat worms naturally.

Skill #11: Foraging and Plant ID

The woods are full of medicine and food—pokeweed, muscadines, black walnuts, chanterelles. But screw up and you might poison yourself. Learn your plants or leave ‘em alone.

Skill #12: Natural Pest Control

You want to spray your garden with poison? Then go back to the suburbs. Out here, we use companion planting, beneficial insects, and neem oil. Learn how to control bugs without killing your soil.

Skill #13: Basic Plumbing and Electrical

When your well pump fails at 2 a.m. or the breaker flips because of a janky DIY brooder light, you better know how to fix it. Ain’t no calling the handyman out here without paying a small fortune.

Skill #14: Cooking From Scratch

You raise all that food, then serve it with boxed mac & cheese? Get outta here. Learn how to bake bread, make jam, churn butter, and cook with what’s in season.

Skill #15: Emergency First Aid and Herbal Remedies

Hospitals ain’t always nearby. Learn how to treat cuts, sprains, infections, and burns using both modern and herbal remedies. Goldenrod, comfrey, echinacea—they’re not just weeds, they’re your pharmacy.


Now let me tell you something else that grinds my gears: people who play “pretend homestead” on weekends and then lecture the rest of us on TikTok about “slow living.” Let me see your calloused hands, your back sweat, your 3 a.m. goat birth—then we’ll talk.

DIY Hack #2: Chicken Feed Fermentation

You want healthier birds and to cut down on feed costs? Ferment their grains for 24-48 hours. It increases digestibility, reduces waste, and stretches your feed dollar farther—especially when feed prices are gouging your soul.

DIY Hack #3: Clay Pot Irrigation (Ollas)

Dig a hole, bury an unglazed clay pot up to the neck, fill it with water. Water seeps slowly to plant roots and nothing’s wasted to evaporation. Perfect for tomatoes during our brutal July heatwaves.


Listen, I don’t homestead to look cute in flannel or post Pinterest-perfect pies. I homestead because the world’s going off the rails and I’ll be damned if I let my family go down with it. The soil’s my security, the chickens are my alarm system, and my pantry’s more reliable than any damn grocery chain.

We do it ourselves because we HAVE to. Because we don’t trust the supply chain. Because when that hurricane comes barreling up from the Gulf, we don’t want to be the ones fighting for bottled water and bread at Walmart. We want to be the ones hunkered down with full pantries, a wood stove, and a generator we built out of salvaged parts and stubborn pride.

So if you’re thinking about the South Carolina homestead life, don’t come for the aesthetics. Come because you’ve got grit in your soul and sweat in your future. Come because you want to build something that outlasts chaos. And come prepared—because this land doesn’t suffer fools, and neither do we.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got to go patch the fence. Again. Because that damn goat thinks she’s Houdini and the tomatoes won’t prune themselves.

Is South Carolina’s Drinking Water Safe? Hell No!

Listen up, because I’m not here to sugarcoat anything. If you think the water coming out of your tap in South Carolina is safe to drink, you’re dead wrong—and if you keep drinking that poison, you’re begging for trouble. I’m an angry survivalist, and I’ve seen what contaminated water does to people. It kills, it sickens, and it betrays the very essence of life. South Carolina’s water? It’s a ticking time bomb, loaded with industrial runoff, agricultural pesticides, heavy metals, and god knows what else. You’re basically swallowing a cocktail of chemicals and pathogens every time you take a sip.

Now, I don’t want to hear any excuses about “well, it passes government safety standards” or “the water looks clear, so it must be fine.” Clear water is not clean water. The government is often miles behind reality, and their “standards” barely scratch the surface. If you want to survive, thrive, and protect your family, you need to treat every drop of water like it’s a potential enemy. You want to live? You want to avoid the emergency room or worse? Learn how to filter, purify, and hack your way to safe drinking water—because no one’s going to save you but you.


15 Water Filtration Survival Skills You NEED to Master in South Carolina

  1. Know Your Sources: Rivers, lakes, and even groundwater in South Carolina can be heavily polluted. Never assume a natural water source is safe. Always scout upstream and avoid stagnant or suspicious water.
  2. Boiling Is Your First Line of Defense: Boil water for at least 5 minutes to kill bacteria, viruses, and parasites. This old-school method is reliable if you have the fuel.
  3. Use a High-Quality Portable Water Filter: Get a filter with a pore size of 0.1 microns or smaller. Sawyer Mini, LifeStraw, or Katadyn are solid choices that remove bacteria and protozoa.
  4. Activated Carbon Filters Are Your Friend: These remove chemicals, pesticides, and improve taste and odor. They won’t kill pathogens but are vital for chemical contaminants.
  5. DIY Sand and Charcoal Filter: Layer sand, charcoal, and gravel to create a simple but effective filter for large particles and some chemicals.
  6. Use Bleach Sparingly but Wisely: Household bleach can kill pathogens when added at 2 drops per liter and allowed to sit for 30 minutes. But it won’t remove chemicals or heavy metals.
  7. Solar Water Disinfection (SODIS): Fill clear plastic bottles with water and leave them in direct sunlight for 6 hours. UV rays kill pathogens, but it’s slow and weather-dependent.
  8. Distillation: If you have the equipment, boil water and capture the steam, condensing it back to liquid. This removes almost everything, including salts and heavy metals.
  9. Chemical Purifiers: Use iodine or chlorine dioxide tablets to treat water. They kill pathogens but not chemical contaminants.
  10. Pre-Filtration: Always pre-filter murky water through cloth or coffee filters before using finer filters to avoid clogging.
  11. Avoid Polluted Runoff: Stay clear of water near farms, factories, or urban areas. Runoff can contain pesticides, heavy metals, and bacteria.
  12. Test Water Whenever Possible: Portable water testing kits can alert you to heavy metals, bacteria, or chemical contamination. Use them.
  13. Collect Rainwater: When it rains, collect and store water. It’s naturally purified but should still be filtered and treated.
  14. Maintain and Clean Filters: Filters get clogged and dirty. Regular maintenance is essential to keep them effective and avoid bacterial growth.
  15. Understand Your Environment: South Carolina’s water quality varies by region and season. Research local water reports and plan accordingly.

3 DIY Survival Drinking Water Hacks to Keep You Alive in South Carolina

Hack #1: The DIY Charcoal Filter Bottle

  • Take an empty plastic bottle and cut off the bottom.
  • Invert the bottle like a funnel.
  • Layer cotton or cloth at the neck, followed by activated charcoal (from a campfire or bought), then sand, and finally gravel.
  • Pour water through this setup multiple times. It won’t sterilize but will remove sediment, some chemicals, and improve taste before you boil or chemically treat it.

Hack #2: Solar Still for Distillation

  • Dig a small hole in the ground.
  • Place a container in the center to collect distilled water.
  • Cover the hole with clear plastic sheeting, securing edges with dirt or rocks.
  • Put a small rock in the center of the plastic to create a low point for condensation to drip into the container.
  • Leave it under the sun. This method pulls moisture out of soil or plants and condenses it into safe drinking water.

Hack #3: Cloth Pre-Filtration and Boil Combo

  • Use a clean cloth or bandana to filter out large particles from river or pond water.
  • Collect the filtered water in a container, then boil it for at least 5 minutes.
  • If you have bleach or purification tablets, add them after boiling for extra safety.

Why You Must Stop Trusting South Carolina’s Drinking Water

Industrial plants line parts of the state, dumping chemicals directly or indirectly into waterways. The agricultural sector isn’t innocent either—pesticides, herbicides, and animal waste infiltrate the groundwater and surface water. Heavy metals like lead and arsenic have been found in some areas, and the aging infrastructure—rusty pipes and old treatment plants—adds its own cocktail of toxins. These contaminants don’t just “go away.” They accumulate in your body, damage your organs, and degrade your immune system. It’s a slow, invisible poison.

Think you’re safe drinking bottled water? Ha! The bottled water industry is a racket. Some bottled water is just filtered tap water. Others are stored in plastic bottles that leach chemicals, especially if exposed to heat. If you’re relying on store-bought water in an emergency, fine, but always have a plan to purify your own water in the wild or even in your backyard.


What Happens If You Don’t Filter or Purify Your Water?

You’re playing Russian roulette with waterborne diseases like giardia, cryptosporidium, E. coli, cholera, and hepatitis A. These aren’t just some minor stomach bugs; they can cripple you, cause severe dehydration, and kill you. And don’t even get me started on the chemical poisoning—neurological damage, cancer risks, kidney failure, and birth defects.

When disaster hits, water is the most critical survival resource. If you haven’t prepared by mastering filtration and purification, you’re dead in the water—literally.


Final Warning: Get Off Your Ass and Prepare

Stop being complacent. Water safety is not something to debate or trust blindly. Take control. Buy yourself a solid water filter, practice boiling water, learn to build your own filtration systems, and don’t ever, ever drink from an unknown source without treating the water first.

South Carolina’s drinking water is a silent killer. It’s up to you to fight back with knowledge, skills, and grit. If you want to survive whatever disaster or contamination comes your way, start NOW. Because when that tap runs dry or turns toxic, there won’t be a government official knocking on your door with bottled water. You’re on your own.


Remember: Water is life, but untreated water is death. Master these filtration skills and DIY hacks, protect your family, and never trust South Carolina’s drinking water to be safe without taking survival-level precautions. Stay angry, stay prepared, and stay alive.

Surviving South Carolina: Your Guide to Preparing for the Worst Natural Disasters

As a survival prepper living in South Carolina, I’ve learned to take the unpredictable nature of our state’s weather seriously. From hurricanes to flooding to the occasional tornado, it’s a constant reminder that Mother Nature can be both beautiful and deadly. Prepping isn’t just about collecting gear; it’s about understanding the threats and putting strategies in place to protect yourself and your family. For South Carolinians, it’s about being ready for the worst, no matter when it strikes. Here’s what you need to know to survive and thrive during the state’s worst natural disasters.

Hurricanes in South Carolina

One of the biggest threats to residents of South Carolina is hurricanes. These monstrous storms are not only a risk along the coast but also inland, especially when they dump torrential rains and cause massive flooding. As someone who lives in the Lowcountry, I’ve experienced firsthand the devastation these storms can cause. You can’t control the weather, but you can control how you prepare.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A FAMINE

For hurricane season, which runs from June to November, it’s vital to have a comprehensive disaster plan in place. First, make sure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with enough food and water to last at least 72 hours. Don’t forget non-perishable foods, a can opener, and batteries for flashlights. A portable power bank to keep your phone charged is a must—communication is critical during these times.

Another thing you must consider is evacuation. Know your evacuation routes, and if you live in a flood-prone area, have a plan to leave early. Don’t wait for the last minute. Hurricanes move fast, and evacuation orders can come with little notice. I’ve seen roads become impassable due to downed trees, and gas stations can quickly run out of fuel. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank full and have extra gas cans if possible.

Lastly, secure your home. Install storm shutters, reinforce doors, and check your roof for vulnerabilities. I’ve spent a few evenings reinforcing windows and ensuring the gutters are clear of debris—small steps that can make a big difference in protecting your home.

Flooding in South Carolina

Flooding is a significant risk for South Carolina, especially with our low-lying coastal areas and numerous rivers. While hurricanes can certainly contribute to flooding, you don’t need a hurricane for floodwaters to rise. Heavy rainfall, especially after a few days of consistent storms, can overwhelm the landscape. Flash floods are particularly dangerous because they can strike with little warning.

When it comes to prepping for flooding, there’s no such thing as being too prepared. Start by checking if your property is in a flood zone. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider installing sump pumps or French drains to divert water away from your home. Elevating electrical appliances, utilities, and valuables above potential flood levels is essential. I know people who have elevated their HVAC units to avoid water damage, and it’s a strategy I recommend.

In addition to these physical precautions, you need to be able to respond quickly when floods strike. A good rule of thumb is to have a set of waterproof bags to store important documents, such as insurance papers and IDs. Consider a portable, battery-powered radio or a weather radio with an alert system to stay informed about incoming storms and potential flash floods.

Tornadoes in South Carolina

While tornadoes aren’t as common in South Carolina as they are in places like Oklahoma, they’re still a real threat. Our state can experience severe thunderstorms and tornadoes, especially during the spring and fall months. These storms can form quickly and without warning, so it’s important to have a plan in place.

If you live in an area susceptible to tornadoes, make sure you know the safest areas in your home. Basements or interior rooms on the lowest floor, away from windows, are the best places to shelter. Have a “go-bag” ready with essentials like a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, and a whistle in case you’re trapped and need to signal for help.

Be sure to invest in a reliable weather alert system or download an app on your phone that can warn you of impending storms. I also recommend having a sturdy helmet or padded headgear on hand to protect your head in case of flying debris.

Severe Thunderstorms

South Carolina is no stranger to severe thunderstorms. These storms often bring high winds, heavy rainfall, and hail. They can knock down trees, cause power outages, and create dangerous driving conditions. If you’re caught outside, the most dangerous hazard is the risk of falling branches or flying debris. The best way to prepare for these storms is to know when they’re coming and stay indoors during the worst of it.

Before a storm hits, trim trees and remove any loose items from your yard. High winds can turn anything into a projectile. Make sure your home is protected by reinforcing your roof and windows and securing loose shutters or screens. If a power outage occurs, keep flashlights, lanterns, and batteries in a designated, easily accessible place. Keep a portable power bank charged to maintain phone communication and access to emergency alerts.

Wildfires

Though not as common as in some Western states, wildfires have started to pose a growing risk to areas of South Carolina, especially in forested or rural regions. Drought conditions, combined with high winds, can turn even a small spark into a raging wildfire. If you live near wooded areas, you’ll want to take steps to prevent fires from reaching your home.

Creating defensible space around your home is a crucial strategy. Clear brush, leaves, and debris from your property, and keep firewood and other flammable materials away from the home. Installing fire-resistant materials on your roof and siding can also help protect against the spread of fire. Always stay aware of burn bans in your area, and be cautious when using grills or outdoor fires during dry spells.

10 Survival Prepper Tips for South Carolina Natural Disasters

  1. Create a Family Emergency Plan: Know where to meet, how to contact each other, and what routes to take during evacuation.
  2. Stock Up on Water: Have at least one gallon per person per day for at least three days in case of a disaster.
  3. Keep a “Go-Bag” Ready: A well-stocked emergency kit is crucial. Include medical supplies, non-perishable food, and a flashlight.
  4. Maintain a Weather Radio: Stay up-to-date with the latest forecasts and warnings, even when the power goes out.
  5. Fortify Your Home: Install storm shutters, reinforce doors, and ensure your roof and windows are secure.
  6. Plan for Pets: Make sure you have food, water, and other supplies for your pets in case of evacuation.
  7. Have Cash On Hand: In case of power outages or bank closures, cash can be essential for purchasing necessities.
  8. Be Prepared for Power Outages: Keep extra batteries, a generator, and an alternative light source for extended outages.
  9. Stay Informed: Download apps or sign up for weather alerts to stay on top of emergency situations.
  10. Learn First Aid and CPR: Knowing basic life-saving skills can be invaluable during emergencies.

By keeping these survival tips in mind and preparing yourself for South Carolina’s unique threats, you’ll be ready for whatever nature throws your way. Stay safe, stay smart, and always be prepared!

Get Ready for Anything: The 30 Best Campsites for Survival Preppers in South Carolina

South Carolina Survival Preppers: The Best Campsites for Bugging Out and Self-Sufficiency

Living in South Carolina, as a survival prepper, means preparing for anything from hurricanes to social unrest. But one of the most overlooked aspects of prepping is finding the right camping spots—places where you can escape to, practice wilderness survival skills, or just retreat when the world gets a little too chaotic. For preppers like us, finding a campsite isn’t just about a relaxing weekend in nature; it’s about preparing for the worst-case scenario. Whether it’s practicing self-sufficiency, learning how to forage, or simply building a shelter, South Carolina offers an abundance of spots perfect for prepping.

Here are 30 of the best survival-ready camping sites in South Carolina that are perfect for preppers. These spots not only provide a great wilderness experience but also the opportunity to hone your skills, test your gear, and ensure that you’re ready for whatever comes your way.


1. Table Rock State Park

Nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Table Rock is one of the state’s most rugged and remote campsites. This spot is ideal for practicing long-term survival skills due to its challenging terrain. With its numerous trails, creeks, and a large lake, this place offers everything a prepper needs to stay connected to nature while testing your skills.

2. Lake Hartwell State Park

This large park offers plenty of land for exploration and shelter-building exercises. The nearby lake also provides opportunities for fishing and learning water survival techniques. There are remote camping sites where you can set up your base and practice different survival skills.

3. Francis Marion National Forest

A massive stretch of forest, this area provides an excellent location for preppers looking to practice navigation, hunting, and foraging. The remote campsites are perfect for testing your ability to live off the land for extended periods.

4. Congaree National Park

With its unique floodplain forest ecosystem, Congaree National Park is an excellent place for practicing waterborne survival skills. The swampy terrain also makes it a good place to simulate difficult survival situations. You’ll want to make sure you bring insect repellent though—this area is rich in mosquitoes!

5. Chester State Park

Located in the Piedmont region, Chester State Park provides an easily accessible, yet secluded, camping experience. It’s perfect for testing out your bug-out gear and practicing low-key survival techniques without going too far from civilization.

6. Huntington Beach State Park

Huntington Beach is ideal for coastal preppers. Not only can you practice skills related to saltwater fishing, but you can also test your ability to survive in a coastal environment. The campground is known for being quiet, giving you ample time for solo practice.

7. Sumter National Forest

Sumter National Forest spans over 370,000 acres, providing vast wilderness areas to explore. Whether you’re interested in primitive camping or practicing fire-starting techniques, this place offers plenty of space to learn and perfect essential survival skills.

8. Devils Fork State Park

For preppers who are comfortable with steep terrain and remote settings, Devils Fork is an excellent place to sharpen your survival instincts. The park also offers lakefront camping, ideal for testing water purification and fishing skills.

9. Edisto Beach State Park

Edisto Beach is another excellent spot for coastal survivalists. While it’s relatively easy to access, the beach’s wilderness area offers a great place to practice shelter-building, foraging, and water collection techniques.

10. Aiken State Park

This park is home to dense forests and a variety of wildlife. For preppers who enjoy hunting or tracking, this park is perfect for sharpening those skills. There’s also an area for primitive camping, allowing you to test your ability to survive without modern amenities.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN HOW TO NEVER STARVE WHEN DOOMSDAY HITS!


11. Oconee State Park

If you’re looking for rugged terrain and a place to build shelters in a forest environment, Oconee State Park is the perfect spot. The park’s remote feel provides a great opportunity to practice bug-out scenarios and create a long-term camp.

12. Lynch’s Woods County Park

A hidden gem in the Midlands, Lynch’s Woods offers excellent, isolated spots to practice bushcraft and survival skills. It’s a great place to disappear into nature for a while and learn how to live off the land.

13. Kings Mountain National Military Park

While known for its historical significance, Kings Mountain also offers great backwoods camping. If you’re into stealth camping or testing your ability to remain unseen in the wilderness, this park provides the perfect backdrop.

14. Myrtle Beach State Park

Don’t let the popularity of this park fool you. Myrtle Beach has plenty of secluded areas where you can practice coastal survival. Learn how to adapt to the beach environment and test your fishing skills.

15. Lake Murray State Park

Lake Murray is perfect for a long weekend of fishing, kayaking, and camping. For preppers who want to practice in a semi-remote setting but still want easy access to supplies, Lake Murray offers the best of both worlds.

16. Poinsett State Park

Poinsett is well-known for its rich history, but it’s also a great spot for primitive camping. The park’s unique topography makes it an ideal place to practice setting up shelters in various environments.

17. Santee State Park

This park, located along the shores of Lake Marion, is perfect for preppers who want to focus on water-based survival skills. It’s also an excellent location for practicing emergency water purification techniques and fishing.

18. Sand Hills State Forest

This spot is ideal for practicing survival techniques like fire-starting, foraging, and shelter-building. The area’s relatively untouched landscape is great for testing your wilderness endurance.

19. Barnwell State Park

Barnwell offers secluded camping and is perfect for preppers who want to practice bug-out drills in a forested environment. The peaceful surroundings make it an excellent place to disconnect and test your survival abilities.

20. Devil’s Backbone Nature Trail

If you’re looking for a trail that tests your ability to navigate, this 5.5-mile path is an excellent choice. Along with its hiking opportunities, it’s a great place to practice wilderness navigation and build temporary shelters.


21. Lake Jocassee

Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lake Jocassee is perfect for preppers who need to practice water survival. Kayaking, fishing, and foraging for food are just some of the activities you can focus on while honing your survival skills.

22. Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge

This wildlife refuge is a great place for preppers to practice tracking, hunting, and building shelters. The diverse habitats within the refuge will keep you on your toes and teach you to adapt to various environments.

23. Lake Wylie

For those looking to practice long-term survival in a water-rich environment, Lake Wylie is the spot. Its peaceful surroundings are perfect for honing skills like water collection and purification.

24. Givhans Ferry State Park

This park, located along the Edisto River, provides a perfect environment for practicing water purification, kayaking, and shelter-building. The remote nature of the park allows you to feel truly isolated.

25. Cherokee Foothills Scenic Byway

For preppers interested in a more off-grid experience, Cherokee Foothills offers beautiful, rugged terrain ideal for survivalists. The varied landscape provides everything from streams to woodlands to practice different survival techniques.

26. Lake Keowee

Known for its stunning beauty, Lake Keowee offers many camping sites along its shoreline. It’s an excellent spot for learning freshwater fishing techniques, and the surrounding forest makes it perfect for shelter-building.

27. Congaree Swamp

For more experienced preppers, the Congaree Swamp is ideal for testing your ability to survive in wetland environments. This challenging terrain provides plenty of opportunity for practicing foraging, building shelters, and finding food.

28. Hickory Knob State Resort Park

If you want to test your skills in a less populated area, Hickory Knob State Resort Park is the perfect place to go. With its secluded spots and wooded areas, it’s ideal for practicing a variety of skills like fire-starting, shelter-building, and water purification.

29. Sesquicentennial State Park

Located near Columbia, Sesquicentennial offers secluded spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It’s a great place to practice tracking, shelter-building, and living off the land.

30. Rocky Bottom

For more experienced survivalists, Rocky Bottom is a remote, isolated spot perfect for long-term survival practice. It’s ideal for testing shelter-building techniques, water purification, and stealth camping.