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Dillon, S.C. – Anglers, campers and hikers will now have a smoother ride into Little Pee Dee State Park. The South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism (SCPRT), along with local and state leaders, hosted a ribbon cutting for the park’s new road on Monday, March 1.

The original road was built in the 1950s. In 2016, Hurricane Matthew breeched the dam at Lake Norton – the park’s 54-acre idyllic lake. The heavy trucks and machinery that were used to repair the dam created potholes and problems for the old road.

After six months of work and collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), and years of support from the community, the new road is now open to all campers and visitors.

“Our parks are dedicated to stewardship and service, and we know a positive park experience can start before you enter the park gates,” said SCPRT Director Duane Parrish. “We are proud that this work is completed so visitors – with their cars, campers, RVs, bikes or motorcycles – will have a smoother ride into the park to kick off an enjoyable visit. We’re grateful to SCDOT for partnering with us to complete this project, and look forward to collaborating with them on future projects that improve access and road quality in South Carolina State Parks.”

“Little Pee Dee State Park is an important part of our community in Dillon — and has been for decades,” said Representative Jackie “Coach” Hayes. “Time took its toll on the park road after almost 70 years and a few strong hurricanes. Now that the new road is open, I know we will see many more locals and coastal travelers driving in to camp, hike, cast a line, or just enjoy the solitude of this special place.” 

Located in the South Carolina Sandhills region and named after the blackwater river nearby, Little Pee Dee State Park is a subdued setting for those who want to enjoy the park’s natural features or fish the still waters of Lake Norton for bream, bass and catfish. Fish from the pier, rent a canoe or kayak, or walk or bike on the Beaver Pond Nature Trail. With its easy access to Interstate 95, and picnicking and camping amenities, Little Pee Dee is popular with coastal travelers and locals alike. Admission to the park is free.

Little Pee Dee State Park has numerous campsites – both for RVs or tents – and one lakefront camper cabin available for rent year-round. Plan your visit for the springtime to see hundreds of dogwoods in bloom.

For more information, contact Sam Queen at sam@scprt.com or 803-734-1779.

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