Nestled in the heart of South Carolina’s Lowcountry, Jasper County is a tapestry of rich history, local festivals, and natural wonders. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or an outdoor adventurer, Jasper County has something to offer for everyone.
History
The Jasper County area encompasses Hardeeville, Ridgeland, Point South, and parts of Yemassee, with roots dating back to the late 17th century. Our history runs deep, with beginnings stemming from the Native Americans to the Revolutionary War and the Civil War to present day.
Throughout the county, you can find many historic sites, such as Thomas Heyward Jr.’s tomb, who was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. The Purrysburg monument, also located in Jasper County, marks the attempted Swiss Protestants settlement along the Savannah river.
And we can’t forget about Jasper’s namesake Sergeant William Jasper. He became famous during a Revolutionary skirmish by performing a brave act. Seeing that the South Carolina flag had fallen to the ground, he leaped over the wall of the fort during intense battle, secured the flag, and safely returned to his post to fight on.
Festivals
This hidden gem of a destination captivates visitors with its deep rooted history, showing itself through cultural events that take place throughout the year. Festivals run deep in these small, thriving towns. They are a great way to soak up the local ambiance.
In Ridgeland, you can partake in the Gopher Hill Festival, which celebrates the original name of the town, the first weekend in October. Or come on down to the Jasper Jamboree the second weekend in February. Don’t forget about the Lowcountry Pow-Wow and Cultural Festival in Hardeeville, the second week in March, or the Festival on Main that occurs every Fall.
Nature
Jasper County and surrounding areas have become known as a “sportsman’s paradise” throughout the years, and it’s no question why. Sportsmen can find a number of hunting clubs and Wildlife Management Areas such as Turkey Hill Plantation and Tillman Sand Ridge Heritage Preserve/Wildlife Management Area.
Nature enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing at sites like the Savannah National Wildlife Refuge and Blue Heron Nature Trail.
For those looking for other ways to get into nature, head over to Sergeant Jasper Park. They have a 20-hole disc golf course that winds through the forest with water hazards along the way. They also have beautiful hiking and biking trails, waterways for canoeing and kayaking, places to fish, plenty of birding opportunities, and a playground for the kiddos!
Neighbors
While there is lots to do in Jasper County, we are still just a hop, skip, and a jump from our more known neighbors, such as Beaufort, Bluffton, and Hilton Head Island. This makes Jasper County a great homebase to explore the rest of the Lowcountry.
With Interstate 95 running through the heart of the area, it is easy to explore everything our wondrous communities have to offer. In addition, there is a wide variety of affordable accommodations, restaurants, and service businesses for travelers.
