You never know what gems you’ll find hidden in the Palmetto State until you look, and this free botanical garden and woodland preserve is a lovely place to reconnect with nature.

Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve in Spartanburg began, as many small public gardens do, as a hobby for a retired couple (Harold and Josephine Hatcher) who moved to Spartanburg in 1969.

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Hatcher Garden Over time, what began as a backyard project grew to encompass ten acres in what is now a mixed use (commercial and residential) part of town.

A walk through Hatcher Garden is an ideal way to reconnect with nature in an otherwise suburban setting.

Google Maps/Jonathan Stewart

TripAdvisor/willow420 The many walkways and various themed gardens provide peace and solitude for a relaxing walk through a stunning oasis. There are ample places, like the stone wall above (and benches), to sit and reflect while enjoying this scenic haven.

A perfectly round overlook at the base of a waterfall dropping underneath a covered footbridge provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the rushing sound of the water as it continues on downstream.

Google Maps/Leisa Bowers

Google Maps/Victor Eduardo Morales Bernal If you’ve never been to this free botanical garden, then you’re in for a treat for several of the senses. Benches are located throughout for quiet reflection and are ideal for absorbing the sights, smells and sounds all around. In warmer months, the shade offers a way to escape the heat of the summer sun.

And the many themed gardens, including a butterfly garden, are alive with color for most of the year.

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Facebook/Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve Have you discovered this unique urban oasis in South Carolina yet? We’d love to know!

Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve is under the stewardship of a non-profit foundation. The garden is located at 832 John B White Sr. Blvd., Spartanburg, SC and is open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free. (Pets are prohibited.) Learn more on the official website for the garden.

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Hatcher Garden

Over time, what began as a backyard project grew to encompass ten acres in what is now a mixed use (commercial and residential) part of town.

Google Maps/Jonathan Stewart

The many walkways and various themed gardens provide peace and solitude for a relaxing walk through a stunning oasis. There are ample places, like the stone wall above (and benches), to sit and reflect while enjoying this scenic haven.

Google Maps/Leisa Bowers

Google Maps/Victor Eduardo Morales Bernal

If you’ve never been to this free botanical garden, then you’re in for a treat for several of the senses. Benches are located throughout for quiet reflection and are ideal for absorbing the sights, smells and sounds all around. In warmer months, the shade offers a way to escape the heat of the summer sun.

Facebook/Hatcher Garden and Woodland Preserve

Have you discovered this unique urban oasis in South Carolina yet? We’d love to know!

If your interest is piqued by this little garden, then here are 13 more to check out in South Carolina!

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