HIGHLIGHTS: Cheraw State Park is located near Cheraw, S.C. and the Turkey Oak Trail is one of the newest hiking trails in the state. The four mile roundtrip loop hike starts at the parking area and is profiled here in a counter-clockwise direction. Start the hike by walking along the Cheraw Nature Trail following red-blazes and heading south. In the first half mile, the trail ascends gradually then begins a 100 foot descend toward the Turkey Oak Trail.

Along the way there is a short spur trail that leads to the Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Area which is a worthwhile side trip if time is available. Otherwise, continue to meet up with the white blazed Turkey Oak Trail and begin a two mile loop that turns down toward Eurkea Lake then switches back to the north to meet up again with the red blazed Cheraw Nature Trail. To hike to Eureka Lake, look for a bench along the Turkey Oak Trail. There is a second spur trail here that leads to the water which may also provide a welcome drink for your pet. You may notice ducks cruising the shallows along the lake, so tighten up the hound’s leash. These birds have been known to spark some interest in a dog – particularly retrievers like the Golden or Labrador Retriever.

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