McCormick County is often called the gateway to outdoor adventure in the western part of South Carolina. The county is named in honor of Cyrus Hall McCormick, inventor of the mechanical reaper. Gold was first taken from the area between 1847 and 1852. Today, the Heritage Gold Mine is open to visitors during May-October. McCormick county has 3 State Parks-Hickory Knob State Resort Park, the only South Carolina Park which is also a resort, joins Baker Creek State Park and Hamilton Branch State Park as three beautiful, water-front state parks to choose from. The area is a diverse collection of communities connected by a historic rail line that winds its way through the county. The McCormick Arts Center at the Keturah preserves and displays local crafting legacy and artists in their building. For golfers, there are several championship golf courses along the lake to enjoy.
