Multi-Use Trail

Multi-Use Trail
Manchester State Forest

(Sumter County)

Description: Boasting three easy-to-moderate loop trails, the Manchester State Forest is among the most popular outdoor getaways in the Midlands. The Manchester Horse, Governor’s Ride, and Red Horse trails with connectors combine to provide 20 miles of riding pleasure. At one time, this state forest in South Carolina’s sandhills region was plantation country. Today it is a pine-oak forest managed for commercial timber use and outdoor recreation, which includes hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian. From parking areas on Poinsett Road, Center Trail Road, and Mill Creek County Park, you will switchback through rolling sand hills, across several country roads, and open fields. You will also ride through stands of massive oak, red cedars with lacy Spanish moss, and familiar longleaf pines. In the spring, you will see an abundance of dogwood, magnolia, and azalea. Red fox, deer, and wild turkey also make their home here. The equestrian trails within Manchester State Forest also connect with similar trails in Poinsett State Park and Mill Creek County Park through the Palmetto Trail’s High Hills of Santee Passage.

It is not necessary for horses to be shod. Insect repellent is recommended during warm months.

Length: Manchester Horse 7.7 miles, Governors Ride Horse 7.3 miles, Red Horse 4.0 miles, and connector trails 1.6 miles.

Fees: Individual daily permits are $5.00 and annual permits are $25.00.

Directions: From Columbia drive east, or Sumter drive west to a junction with SC 261. Turn south on SC 261 and follow for 10 miles to Poinsett Park Road (Sumter County S-43-63). Turn right and look for the trailhead on the left.

Hours: Office is open 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. Trails are open Sunday Only, Sept. 15 to Dec. 30 during hunting season. The Palmetto Trail is open year round.

NOTE: For information about trail closings, click here: Manchester State Forest.

Camping: There is no camping available on the Forest. However, equestrian campsites are available at adjacent Poinsett State Park (water, restrooms, but no electricity). There is also full service camping available at Mill Creek County Park.

Information: Manchester State Forest, 6740 Headquarters Rd., Wedgefield, SC 29168, Telephone: 803-494-8196. Mill Creek County Park -- Sumter County Recreation Department, 155 Haynsworth St., Sumter, SC, 29150, Telephone: 803-436-2248. Poinsett State Park, 6660 Poinsett Park Road, Wedgefield, SC, 29168. Telephone: 803-494-8177.