The road stretches ahead, with two thin ribbons of faded asphalt disappearing into the pines. This is the type of place where you leave the noise behind, cell signals flicker and die, and a gas station clerk still asks where you’re from—not to make small talk, but because they genuinely want to know.
South Carolina’s Long Cane District is more than just a pastoral landscape. It’s a place where the past is still palpable, where ghost towns blend into dense forest, and where the sound of cicadas pulses through the evening air.
The towns here—such as Bordeaux, where the Sumter National Forest swallows up the horizon, and McCormick, where history clings to every brick—are the last bastions of a slower, quieter life.
This is a land of deep solitude and deep roots, with empty roads, bright stars, and a slightly different pace of time. Here are ten of the most remote towns in the Long Cane District, where the outside world has yet to catch up—and may never do.
10. Clarks Hill
Clarks Hill is a small, peaceful community nestled near the banks of the Savannah River in McCormick County, with an estimated population of a few hundred people.
This quaint town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with access to Clarks Hill Lake, where you can fish, boat, and watch beautiful sunsets over the water. The area is rich in history, with nearby historical sites and trails telling stories from the region’s past.
Agriculture and small local businesses are central to the town’s modest economy, which reflects its residents’ simple and tranquil lifestyle.
Clarks Hill is truly secluded due to its vast natural surroundings and lack of urban development, which allows residents and visitors to immerse themselves in the peace and quiet of rural South Carolina.
The town’s untouched landscapes and close-knit community make it an ideal retreat for those seeking to escape the hectic pace of modern life.
Where is Clarks Hill?
Clarks Hill is situated in the western part of McCormick County, South Carolina, near the Georgia border. Its secluded nature stems from its location among vast forests and proximity to Clarks Hill Lake, which borders both South Carolina and Georgia.
The town is accessible via US Route 221 and South Carolina Highway 28, but it remains off the beaten path, which adds to its peaceful atmosphere.
To get to Clarks Hill, drive south from McCormick or north from Augusta, Georgia, and enjoy the scenic route through the rolling countryside and dense woodlands that surround this hidden gem.
9. Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a quiet and unassuming spot in McCormick County, with an estimated population of only a few people, making it one of the most remote areas in the region.
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Sumter National Forest, it’s a haven for hikers, bird watchers, and anyone who enjoys the peace and quiet of the outdoors. The community itself is small, with few businesses, emphasizing a life close to nature and free of commercial distractions.
Bordeaux was historically a small farming community, and while large-scale agriculture has declined, small family farms can still be found throughout the landscape.
Its seclusion is enhanced by the extensive woodlands and the low traffic volume, resulting in a peaceful environment rarely disturbed by the outside world. Bordeaux provides a true escape into nature, with birdsong and leaf rustling being the loudest sounds.
Where is Bordeaux?
Bordeaux is located in the heart of McCormick County, on South Carolina Highway 283, between the towns of McCormick and Plum Branch. Its secluded charm stems largely from its location within the expansive Sumter National Forest, which serves as a natural barrier to the hustle of larger towns and cities.
Bordeaux is primarily accessible via rural roads, which enhances the sense of escape as you travel through scenic pathways lined with towering pines and oaks. To get there, drive north from Augusta, Georgia, or south from Greenwood, South Carolina, and enjoy the peaceful journey into this hidden gem of the Long Cane District.
8. Verdery
Verdery is a small, unincorporated community in Greenwood County with a population that barely reaches the triple digits. Verdery, known for its historical roots and rural landscapes, provides a peaceful setting in which life moves slowly. The area is covered in family-owned farms and surrounded by the natural beauty of South Carolina’s Piedmont region.
Outdoor enthusiasts can explore hidden trails and old railway lines that have been converted into walking paths, giving them a unique perspective on the local flora and fauna.
The lack of commercial industries and its location away from major highways contribute to its secluded atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude or a connection with nature. Verdery’s charm stems from its quiet roads, historic homes, and the warm hospitality of its residents, who value the simplicity of rural life.
Where is Verdery?
Verdery is in southeastern Greenwood County, south of the city of Greenwood and north of McCormick. Its seclusion stems from its location amidst rolling hills and farmland, away from bustling urban areas and major thoroughfares.
The community is accessible via State Highway 10, but traffic is light, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. To get to Verdery, take a scenic drive from Greenwood through picturesque countryside, gradually revealing the quiet charm of this hidden enclave.
7. Kirksey
Kirksey is a small, rural community in Greenwood County with a close-knit population of only a few hundred people. The town is distinguished by its open fields, wooded areas, and the peaceful sounds of nature that define daily life. Outdoor activities, such as hiking and horseback riding, are popular in the area.
Agriculture remains a staple in Kirksey, with many families farming for generations. Kirksey’s seclusion stems from its remote location, away from major highways and free of commercial development, allowing for uninterrupted peace and quiet.
Kirksey’s simplicity and undisturbed natural surroundings make it an ideal retreat for those seeking to escape the complexities of modern life.
Where is Kirksey?
Kirksey is located in western Greenwood County, on South Carolina Highway 67, between the towns of Bradley and Troy. The surrounding forests and farmlands extend as far as the eye can see, adding to its secluded nature.
The community is off the beaten path, with minimal signage and few visitors, adding to its hidden gem status. To get to Kirksey, head west from Greenwood or east from McCormick, taking in the scenery as you move deeper into the peaceful embrace of the countryside.
6. McCormick
McCormick is a charming small town of around 2,500 people that captures the rustic allure of South Carolina’s countryside. Visitors can explore the McCormick Train Station museum, the historic Dorn Mill Complex, and stroll down Main Street, which is lined with quaint shops and restaurants.
The town is surrounded by natural attractions, such as the Sumter National Forest and Lake Thurmond, which provide numerous opportunities for fishing, boating and hiking.
While small industries and local businesses help the economy, McCormick retains a secluded feel due to its remote location and the vast natural landscapes that surround it.
McCormick maintains a peaceful atmosphere thanks to the lack of heavy traffic and commercial sprawl, making it ideal for those looking for a mix of small-town life and outdoor adventures.
Where is McCormick?
McCormick, located at the intersection of U.S. Route 221 and South Carolina Highway 28, is in the state’s western region, near the Georgia border. The town’s seclusion is due in part to its location away from major cities and highways, nestled among forests and near the expansive waters of Lake Thurmond.
Despite being accessible via primary roads, it remains off the main tourist routes, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. To get to McCormick, take a scenic drive from Greenwood to the east or cross the border from Augusta, Georgia, to the south, winding through picturesque landscapes to this hidden gem of the Long Cane District.
5. Bradley
Bradley is a small unincorporated community in Greenwood County, with a population that is barely in the hundreds. The town exemplifies unspoiled beauty, surrounded by rolling hills, dense forests, and sleepy farmland that provide a peaceful backdrop to daily life.
Residents and visitors can enjoy the simplicity of country living by engaging in outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and exploring the area’s natural landscapes.
Bradley has few businesses, which contributes to its quiet atmosphere, and agriculture is an important part of the local way of life. The town’s seclusion is enhanced by its distance from major roads and lack of industrial development, making it an ideal destination for those seeking solitude.
Bradley’s untouched environments and peaceful surroundings make it an ideal destination for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in nature.
Where is Bradley?
Bradley is in southern Greenwood County, accessible via South Carolina Highway 10, which connects it to nearby towns such as Greenwood and McCormick. Its secluded nature is due in part to the vast expanses of forest and farmland that separate it from more populated areas.
The town is not on a major route, which reduces passing traffic and enhances its peaceful atmosphere. To get to Bradley, take a leisurely drive south from Greenwood, enjoying the scenic rural landscapes that greet you as you approach this peaceful community.
4. Troy
Troy, a small town in Greenwood County with a population of about 100 people, provides a peaceful retreat in South Carolina’s picturesque countryside. Troy’s simple way of life is reflected in its few streets, historic buildings, and friendly residents.
The surrounding area offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation, including access to nearby Lake Thurmond for fishing and boating, as well as trails in the Sumter National Forest for hiking and wildlife observation.
The local economy is modest, with agriculture and small businesses at the heart, preserving the town’s traditional and rural character.
Troy’s seclusion is evident in its remote location and lack of commercial development, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking a peaceful and nurturing environment. The town’s emphasis on community and nature fosters a relaxing atmosphere that is difficult to find elsewhere.
Where is Troy?
Troy is located in the southwestern corner of Greenwood County, on South Carolina Highway 10, near the borders of McCormick and Abbeville counties. Troy’s seclusion is due to its distance from urban centers and the dense woodlands that surround it, which protect it from the noise and pace of modern life.
Troy is primarily accessible via rural highways, but it remains off the main travel routes, adding to its secluded feel. To get to Troy, head south from Greenwood or north from McCormick, winding through the tranquil landscapes that lead to this peaceful haven in the Long Cane District.
3. Willington
Willington, a small, historic community in McCormick County with a population of only a few dozen people, exemplifies tranquility in the heart of the Long Cane District. Known for its historical significance, the town is home to the Willington History Center and Bookshop, where visitors can learn about local history and browse an extensive collection of rare and used books.
The surrounding landscapes are dotted with historical remnants, such as old churches and cemeteries that tell stories from bygone eras. With no major industries, the community relies on small businesses and tourism centered on its historical sites.
Willington’s seclusion is a distinguishing feature, with miles of rural countryside separating it from larger towns, ensuring a tranquil environment. Willington is a one-of-a-kind destination for those seeking peace and culture, thanks to its rich history and tranquil surroundings.
Where is Willington?
Willington is located in northern McCormick County, near the border with Abbeville County, on South Carolina Highway 81. Its secluded nature is heightened by its location amidst vast forests and farmlands, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The town is accessible via scenic rural roads that meander through the countryside, adding to the sense of seclusion as you arrive. To get to Willington, take a drive from nearby towns such as Calhoun Falls or McCormick and enjoy the peaceful transition into this historic and tranquil community.
2. Mount Carmel
Mount Carmel, a hidden gem in McCormick County, has a population of less than 200. The community is rich in history, as evidenced by its well-preserved 19th-century buildings and the Mount Carmel Historic District, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Visitors can stroll through the quiet streets, admiring the architecture and possibly stopping by the old general store, which evokes the town’s bygone era.
Agriculture once dominated the area, and while much of that has faded, the rural landscapes remain, providing a peaceful backdrop for those who live here. Mount Carmel’s seclusion is pronounced because it is located away from major highways and receives little through traffic.
The town’s peaceful environment and historical charm make it an ideal destination for anyone looking to return to a simpler way of life.
Where is Mount Carmel?
Mount Carmel is located in the far western portion of McCormick County, near the Georgia border, at the intersection of South Carolina Highways 28 and 81.
Its secluded location is enhanced by the surrounding rural countryside and its distance from major urban areas. The town is not on the way to any major destination, which helps to maintain its peaceful atmosphere.
To get to Mount Carmel, head west from McCormick or north from the Savannah River, and enjoy the peaceful drive through South Carolina’s rolling hills and farmland that heralds your arrival in this hidden community.
1. Lowndesville
Lowndesville is a quaint town in Abbeville County with a population of slightly more than 100 people, providing a charming and intimate community atmosphere.
The town is dotted with historic homes and churches that reflect its rich history, and the quiet streets invite leisurely strolls through which neighbors greet one another warmly.
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy nearby Lake Russell, which is ideal for fishing, boating, and picnicking along the serene shoreline.
The local economy is modest, with small businesses and agriculture at its core, allowing the town to maintain its traditional way of life. Lowndesville’s seclusion stems from its location away from major highways and cities, surrounded by rolling farmland and forests that keep it hidden.
Lowndesville’s combination of historic charm, natural beauty, and a close-knit community makes it a true haven for those seeking a simpler, more relaxed lifestyle.
Where is Lowndesville?
Lowndesville is located in the southwestern corner of Abbeville County, near the shores of Lake Russell and the Savannah River, as well as the Georgia state line.
The town’s secluded ambiance stems from its remote location and the surrounding rural landscapes, which serve as a buffer against urban sprawl. Lowndesville, which is accessible via South Carolina Highway 81, is remote, with little traffic and a peaceful environment.
To get to Lowndesville, take a scenic drive south from Abbeville or west from Anderson through the picturesque countryside, which gradually reveals this charming and secluded community.