Starting near the fee station, this moderately difficult out and back trail is a section of three connecting trails within Poinsett State Park. Named after the rustic mountain laurel that surrounds it, this trail guides you through rugged terrain you would not expect in the lowlands of South Carolina. The mountain laurel along with red cedar trees draped with Spanish moss, giant oaks, and dogwood trees give you the flair of both the mountains and lowland. As you walk, you may see deer, opossum, or speedy squirrels running along the trail. When you reach the end of the Laurel Group Trail, you can return, or extend your hike on the rugged Hilltop Trail, which forms a .5 mile loop.

Free Wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) is available at and near the park office building.

Note: Cyclists using the Palmetto Trail, must use the park road between the office and park entrance.

Camping: Call 1-866-345-PARK (7275) or go online at www.SouthCarolinaParks.com to make your reservations today!

From Columbia: Drive east (west from Sumter) on US 378 and turn south onto SC 261. Drive for 10 miles and turn right onto Park Road (Sumter County S-43-63). Drive approximately 1.9 miles to Poinsett State Park and trailhead is at the end of the road by the park office.