Welcome to the area surrounding Barnyard RV Park! This conveniently located RV park in Lexington, SC, serves as an excellent home base for exploring the diverse attractions of the South Carolina Midlands. Whether you’re enjoying a short term stay as a stopover park or settling in for a long term stay, you’ll find plenty to see and do just a short drive away. From sprawling lakes and unique national parks to historical landmarks and family-friendly entertainment, the region offers something for every type of traveler. Get ready to discover the top things to do near Barnyard RV Park, making your RV living experience both comfortable and exciting.
Exploring Nature and Outdoor Recreation Nearby?
The area around Lexington and Columbia boasts beautiful natural landscapes perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Staying at Barnyard RV Park puts you within easy reach of sparkling waters, ancient forests, and serene local parks, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Lake Murray Adventures
Just a stone’s throw from Lexington SC, Lake Murray is a massive reservoir often called the “Jewel of South Carolina.” This man-made lake offers over 650 miles of shoreline and is a premier destination for water-based recreation. Visitors flock here for boating, sailing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. Numerous marinas and public boat ramps provide easy access to the water.
Fishing is a major draw, with the lake teeming with striped bass, largemouth bass, crappie, bream, and catfish. Several fishing tournaments are held here annually. If you don’t have your own boat, rentals are readily available. Beyond the water, Dreher Island State Park, located on islands in the lake, offers camping, cabin rentals, picnicking, and miles of hiking trails with scenic lake views.
A unique spectacle occurs from June to August when hundreds of thousands of Purple Martins roost on Bomb Island in Lake Murray, one of the largest roosting sites in North America. Sunset boat tours are popular for witnessing this incredible natural event. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening after relaxing at Barnyard RV Park.
Congaree National Park Exploration
A truly unique natural treasure awaits you at Congaree National Park, located southeast of Columbia and accessible from your spot at Barnyard RV Park. This park protects the largest remaining tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest in the United States. Towering bald cypress and tupelo trees, some of the tallest on the East Coast, create a majestic canopy often referred to as a “forest cathedral.”
The best way to experience the park is often via the elevated Boardwalk Loop Trail (2.4 miles), which meanders through the floodplain forest, keeping your feet dry most of the year. For the more adventurous, marked canoe and kayak trails follow Cedar Creek, offering a different perspective of the giant trees and wildlife. Keep an eye out for river otters, deer, turtles, wading birds, and maybe even an alligator. Ranger-led walks and canoe tours provide insightful information about the park’s unique ecosystem.
Local Parks and Green Spaces in Lexington
You don’t always need to venture far from Barnyard RV Park to enjoy some fresh air. Lexington SC itself offers several lovely local parks. Virginia Hylton Park is a popular choice, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, walking paths, a playground, picnic shelters, and interactive water features for kids during warmer months. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll or a family picnic.
Gibson Pond Park provides another nearby option with a fishing pond, walking trails through wooded areas, and picnic facilities. These local green spaces offer convenient opportunities for relaxation and light recreation without requiring a long drive, perfect for unwinding after exploring the region or settling into your RV site.
Discovering History and Culture Close to Barnyard RV Park
The South Carolina Midlands is steeped in history, offering numerous opportunities to explore the past. From state capitals to local museums, you can easily dive into the rich heritage of the region during your stay.
What Historical Sites Can You Visit Near Lexington?
Lexington County itself has a story to tell. The Lexington County Museum, located right in downtown Lexington, offers a fascinating glimpse into the area’s past. The museum comprises over 30 historic structures spread across several acres, showcasing life in the South Carolina backcountry from the colonial period through the Civil War and beyond. You can tour homes, a church, a schoolhouse, and various outbuildings, many furnished with period artifacts.
Docents often provide guided tours, sharing stories about the families who lived and worked here. It’s an immersive experience that brings local history to life, providing context to the area you’re visiting while staying near Barnyard RV Park. Check their hours before visiting, as they can vary seasonally.
Exploring Columbia’s Rich History
As the state capital, nearby Columbia SC is brimming with historical significance. A must-visit is the South Carolina State House. This impressive building, completed over many decades, showcases stunning architecture and bears scars from General Sherman’s cannon fire during the Civil War (marked by bronze stars). You can take free guided or self-guided tours to learn about the state’s government and history, admire the interior architecture, and see the legislative chambers.
Historic Columbia manages several house museums that preserve and interpret the city’s diverse past. You can explore the Robert Mills House (designed by the architect of the Washington Monument), the Hampton-Preston Mansion and Gardens, or the Mann-Simons Site, which tells the story of an African American family through generations. These sites offer valuable insights into the lives of South Carolinians from different backgrounds throughout history.
South Carolina State Museum Insights
For a comprehensive overview of the state’s heritage and more, head to the South Carolina State Museum in Columbia. Conveniently located near the Congaree River, this museum is housed in a historic textile mill and covers South Carolina’s history, art, natural history, and science & technology. It’s a large museum with something for everyone.
Exhibits range from prehistoric fossils and Native American history to the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, the Civil Rights Movement, and modern industry. The museum also features an observatory with a vintage telescope, a planetarium, and a 4D theater, making it an engaging destination for all ages. It’s an excellent rainy-day activity or a deep dive into what makes South Carolina unique, easily accessible from Barnyard RV Park.
Family Fun and Entertainment Options
Beyond nature and history, the area near Barnyard RV Park offers plenty of options for entertainment, shopping, and dining, ensuring fun for the whole family.
Are There Kid-Friendly Activities Near the RV Park?
Absolutely! One of the top family destinations in the region is Riverbanks Zoo and Garden. Consistently ranked among the best zoos in the nation, Riverbanks offers incredible animal habitats featuring creatures from around the globe. See gorillas, lions, tigers, koalas, and explore immersive exhibits like the Aquarium Reptile Complex and Birdhouse. The zoo is designed for easy walking, though trams are available.
Adjacent to the zoo is a stunning 70-acre Botanical Garden, accessible via a bridge across the Saluda River. The gardens feature themed areas, including formal gardens, woodlands, and a children’s garden with playful features. Riverbanks Zoo and Garden provides a full day of fun and learning for visitors of all ages staying near Barnyard RV Park.
Another fantastic option, especially for younger children, is EdVenture Children’s Museum in Columbia. This museum is packed with hands-on, interactive exhibits designed to spark curiosity and learning through play. Highlights include “Eddie,” a giant 40-foot-tall structure representing a child that kids can climb through, and exhibits focused on careers, science, nature, and art. It’s a wonderful place for kids to burn energy and engage their minds.
Shopping and Dining Experiences
You’ll find a variety of shopping and dining opportunities near your temporary home at Barnyard RV Park. Lexington offers local shops and boutiques along its Main Street for unique finds.
Local Lexington Shopping and Markets
Downtown Lexington provides a pleasant atmosphere for browsing local stores. For a truly unique shopping experience, check out the famous Barnyard Flea Market, often located conveniently close to or associated with Barnyard RV Park itself. These markets (check specific locations and operating hours) typically offer a vast array of goods, from antiques and collectibles to fresh produce, crafts, tools, and unexpected treasures. It’s a fun way to spend a weekend morning hunting for bargains.
Exploring Columbia’s Culinary Scene
Nearby Columbia SC offers a much wider range of dining options to suit any taste or budget. The Congaree Vista district is known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and art galleries housed in renovated warehouses. Main Street also boasts a vibrant culinary scene with diverse eateries, from casual cafes to upscale dining. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, international cuisine, or fresh seafood, you’ll find plenty of choices just a short drive from Lexington.
Sporting Events and Local Teams
If you’re a sports fan, check the local schedules during your stay. Columbia is home to the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, and attending a football, basketball, or baseball game can be an exciting experience, especially during the fall and spring seasons. The energy on game day is infectious.
For professional baseball, catch a Columbia Fireflies game at Segra Park. The Fireflies are a Minor League Baseball team, and attending a game offers affordable family fun with classic ballpark atmosphere, promotions, and fireworks on select nights. It’s a great way to enjoy an American pastime while visiting the area near Barnyard RV Park.
Practical Information for Your Stay at Barnyard RV Park
Knowing the details about your chosen RV park can make your stay smoother and more enjoyable. Barnyard RV Park offers various amenities and conveniences for travelers exploring the Lexington and Columbia area.
Understanding Barnyard RV Park Amenities
Barnyard RV Park caters to the needs of modern RVers. Most guests appreciate the availability of full hookups, typically including water, sewer, and electrical connections with both 30 amp and 50 amp service options. The park often features level sites, crucial for easy setup, and can accommodate various RV sizes, including big rigs. Pull-thru sites are usually available, offering convenience for overnight stays or those less experienced with backing in.
Essential amenities often include access to Wi-Fi and cable TV connections at the sites. For practical needs, you’ll likely find well-maintained restrooms and showers, along with laundry facilities, which are invaluable for both short term stay and long term stay guests. Being a pet friendly park is a major plus for many travelers, and the inclusion of a designated dog park allows furry companions to stretch their legs safely. Always check the specific park rules regarding pets and other regulations upon booking or arrival.
Here’s a quick reference for typical amenities you might find:
| Feature | Availability (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Full Hookups (Water, Sewer, Electric) | Yes |
| Electric Service | 30 amp & 50 amp |
| Site Types | Pull-thru sites, Back-in sites |
| Site Surface | Often gravel or paved, generally level sites |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Cable TV |
| Facilities | Restrooms, Showers, Laundry |
| Pet Policy | Pet friendly (check rules), Dog Park |
| Discounts | May participate in programs like Good Sam park discounts |
Booking Your Stay and Rates
Making reservations in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons or for long term stay arrangements. You can usually inquire about availability and book your site by calling the park office or sometimes through an online booking system if available. Be sure to specify your RV size and hookup requirements (30 amp or 50 amp) when booking.
Barnyard RV Park generally offers flexible rate structures to accommodate different needs. Daily rates are suitable for quick stopovers, while weekly rates and monthly rates provide better value for extended stays. Rates can vary based on the time of year, site type, and length of stay. Inquire about current rates and any potential discounts, such as those for Good Sam park members, when you make your reservation.
Why Choose Barnyard RV Park for Your Base?
One of the primary advantages of Barnyard RV Park is its strategic location in Lexington SC. Its proximity to major highways, including easy I-20 access and I-26 access via Highway 1, makes it an incredibly convenient stopover park for travelers passing through South Carolina or a great base for exploring both Lexington and nearby Columbia SC.
Despite its accessibility, the park often maintains a reputation as a relatively quiet park, providing a welcome respite after a day of sightseeing or driving. The availability of essential amenities like full hookups, laundry, and Wi-Fi ensures a comfortable RV living experience. Whether you need a reliable spot for a night or a comfortable base camp for exploring Lake Murray, Congaree National Park, and Columbia’s attractions, Barnyard RV Park offers a practical and convenient solution for your travels.
