Ghost Towns in South Carolina
11 documented ghost towns
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History
Explore the ghost towns of South Carolina.
All Ghost Towns
Ansonborough
Ansonborough was developed in 1746 as Charleston's first 'suburb'. It contains some of the city's oldest buildings. The area declined in the 20th cent...
Atlantic Beach
Atlantic Beach was founded in 1934 as one of the few beaches where African Americans could vacation during segregation. It was known as 'The Black Pea...
Daufuskie Island
Daufuskie Island was home to a thriving Gullah community descended from enslaved West Africans. Isolated from the mainland, the community preserved di...
Dorchester
Dorchester was founded by Congregationalists from Massachusetts. It flourished as a trading center until the Revolution. The British burned much of it...
Oconee Station
Oconee Station was built in 1792 as a military post and trading post on the Cherokee Path. The 1805 stone blockhouse is the oldest building in upstate...
Old Dorchester
Old Dorchester was one of Carolina's largest colonial towns—then the Revolutionary War destroyed it. British occupation and strategic burning left onl...
Old Sheldon Church
Old Sheldon Church was burned by the British in 1779 during the Revolution. Rebuilt, it was burned again by Sherman's troops in 1865 during the March ...
Pinopolis
Pinopolis was an antebellum summer retreat for Low Country planters escaping malaria season. When Lake Moultrie was created in the 1940s, many older s...
Purrysburg
Purrysburg was founded by Jean-Pierre Purry and Swiss settlers. Though initially successful with silk and wine, the swampy location bred malaria and d...
Sheldon Church Ruins
Old Sheldon Church was built in 1753, burned by the British in 1779, rebuilt, then burned again by Sherman's troops in 1865. The Greek Revival columns...
Sheldon
Sheldon was a wealthy plantation community centered on the Prince William Parish Church. The British burned it in 1779. It was rebuilt, then Sherman's...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many ghost towns are in South Carolina?
We have documented 11 ghost towns in South Carolina. These range from completely abandoned mining camps to semi-inhabited historic settlements.
Are ghost towns in South Carolina safe to visit?
Most ghost towns are safe to explore, but exercise caution. Watch for unstable structures, mine shafts, and wildlife. Some are on private property - always check access rules before visiting.
What should I bring when visiting ghost towns?
Bring water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy shoes, a flashlight, and a first aid kit. Many ghost towns are in remote areas without cell service, so download offline maps.
Can I take artifacts from ghost towns?
No. Removing artifacts, bottles, or debris is illegal and destroys historical sites. Take only photos and leave only footprints.
What's the best time to visit ghost towns in South Carolina?
Spring and fall offer the best weather for exploring. Summer can be extremely hot in desert locations, while winter may make roads impassable.