Woods Ferry Recreation Area
  Sumter National Forest
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The rolling hills of Sumter National Forest in Chester County are home to the Woods Ferry Horse Trail. The trail meanders through the rolling hills of upland pine woods and maturing hardwood forests. It offers a wonderful change is scenery from the area’s typical pine trails. Interconnecting loops allow for rides of varying lengths. The highlight of the trail is the stretch along the Broad River corridor. The many variety of hardwood trees create an umbrella with their leaves in the summer, keeping you cool during your ride. Thatches of pine are mingled in and the sun shines through them providing you warmth in the winter.

You come upon several creek crossings on this well-maintained trail. Wild azaleas are clumped by the old homesites and dogwoods are scattered through-out the forest. Inhale fragrance of the honeysuckle in these peaceful surroundings.

The forest and river environment draw a variety of wildlife to the area. Visitors interested in nature watching have an opportunity to see birds such as red-shouldered hawks, great blue herons, osprey, wood ducks, barred owls and the American Bald Eagle. 

In 1817 Matthew Woods owned this land and made his living ferrying horses and buggies across the Broad River. Horses continued to be part of the history when General Wade Hampton’s Confederate Calvary crossed the river to harass the Union flanks during Sherman’s March.

The entire family can enjoy this trail as it’s a leisurely ride that can be negotiated easily.  

Camping
17 campsites with tables and grills; 10 of which have horse stalls. Campground is first-come first-served with self-service pay station. Vault toilets are centrally located to both ends of the campground. Water spigots are centrally located throughout the campground.

Trails

• Miles of Trails: 24+ miles
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Terrain: Native, gravel and piedmont clay, smooth rock outcroppings.
• Drinking Water: Stream water is safe for animals to drink.
• Fees: no fees for day use, Fees for campers and stalls.
• Safety: Wear blazes orange during hunting season
  

 Directions
 Day use trailhead parking: At SC Highway 9 and Chester County SR-12-49, turn left (south) onto SR-12-49. Turn right onto Worthy’s Ferry Road (Chester County S-12-535. Drive 1.2 miles to Forest Service Road 301C turn left. Drive 0.4 miles to graveled trailhead parking on left.

Information
USDA Forest Service  Enoree Ranger District
20 Work Center Road Whitmire, SC 29178
Phone: (803) 276-4810
Visit us on the web:fs.usda.gov/scnfs for more information.