What to Expect on Opening Night
Opening night welcomes campers (and non-campers) at Poinsett State Park in Sumter, S.C. Expect a turn-key experience with our trained team of professional packers who will safely transport your bikes and personal belongings. All you have to do is set up your campsite!
For those staying in nearby hotels, don’t worry we’ve got you covered! Shuttles are provided to transport you and your belongings to and from the campsite so you can enjoy the nightly activities as well.
Upon arrival, guests can expect to hear the soulful strum of a banjo, rhythmic clapping and boot tapping, and the talented vocals of Pierce Edens. Pierce Edens is a perfect fit for the theme of the night; Grillin’ and Chillin’.
Grillin’ and Chillin’
After campers get settled on the lakeside retreat, we’ll be firing up the grills and serving some good ole’ fashioned campfire food curated by Jamie Westendorff. Grab a drink, grab a plate and take in the views!
Throughout the evening we will also offer free paddle board and kayak rentals provided BASC. We encourage campers to get the full experience of the campsite and take a spin around the lake to see native wildlife and the unique ecosystem.
“In the High Hills of Santee, where the South Carolina Sandhills of the Midlands region meet the coastal plain region, you’ll find Poinsett State Park. Called the “mountains of the midlands,” this mixed ecosystem yields a high degree of biodiversity and some of the most unique natural sightings in the park system, especially along the Palmetto trail which winds through the Manchester State Forest.”
Expect a full-circle experience as the park naturalist shares insights on the unique ecosystem and the bi-annual emergence of over 2 million frogs from the parks pond (don’t worry, they’ll be long gone by the time we get there)!
End the night with Pierce Edens as he plays his signature folk-rock style music. His atmospheric sound and nitty gritty lyrics create the perfect vibe for our Grillin’ and Chillin’ night.
What to Expect Friday Morning
Coffee, a beautiful sunrise over the lake, and a full breakfast!
Rise and shine Friday morning and get ready to ride through the Manchester State Forest. Expect steep terrain and majestic water views as you wind through The High Hills of Santee Passage. Riders will feel the presence of the Catawba Indians, early settlers, traders and plantations. The hilly topography is an unexpected surprise in the middle of the state but offers a welcomed challenge to the able rider. Often mistaken for mountains, these ancient dunes were formed millions of years ago along the ancient shoreline when megalodons and giant whales plowed the oceans.
The Lake Marion Passage is filled with wildlife and vistas of the coastal plains. Cyclists will stop for lunch in the swamp at Strawberry Landing and later hop on a boat for the last leg to the evening, ending at your campsite at Santee State Park. Our volunteers will have your gear there and the hospitality tent will be open.
For more specifics on the route, click here!
Join Bicycle Across South Carolina
As the event continues to evolve and come to life over the next few months, we want to hear what you’d like to see at BASC. Post-ride yoga? Football on a big screen? Email me here and we’ll see what we can do!
Early Bird Pricing is available until August 1st ($270 for the 2-day ride and $370 for the 3-day ride).
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