York County, South Carolina

York County, South Carolina, is centrally located for all sorts of adventures. Its proximity to Charlotte, North Carolina, means that urban conveniences are never far away. When you're in York County, though, natural spaces and outdoor recreation are never far either. Plus, South Carolina's coastal location makes beach weekends an alluring possibility.

From the lakes to the mountains, the urban streets to the historical attractions, York County has a little something for everyone. Add in the community charm and friendly attitudes that are so prevalent here, and it's easy to see why York County is growing by leaps and bounds.

Several centuries ago, the Catawba Indians and other Native American tribes lived in this area. European settlers began arriving in the mid-1700s. Many of them were Presbyterians from Scotland and Ireland.

A few decades later, South Carolina became an important center of Revolutionary War battles. More military conflicts occurred in this colony than any of the others. Two of the fights happened within the boundaries of York County. Known as the battles of Huck's Defeat and Kings Mountain, they both took place in 1780. As wins for the Patriot side, these clashes contributed to American independence.

In 1785, York County was officially recognized by the state legislature of South Carolina. The town of Fergus Crossroads was chosen to be the county seat. Fergus Crossroads changed names a few times over the years, but it eventually became York. The city of York is still the county seat today.

In the early days, the most important aspects of the York County economy were farming and mining. The Civil War, however, ushered in many changes. One key difference was the rise of the local cotton mills. Over the next several decades, the textile industry became the most important piece of the York County economy. As the textile business grew, so, too, did towns. Rock Hill and Fort Mill rose to local prominence during that era. And today Rock Hill is the state's fifth most populous city.

Much has changed over the last several decades, but York County still remembers its roots. In fact, this county is part of what's known as South Carolina's Olde English District, named for its British settlers, its colonial heritage and its key role in the struggle for American independence.

Between 2010 and 2019, the population of York County grew by over 24%. These days, the county is home to more than 280,000 people. Based on 2019 Census Bureau estimates, it's the seventh-largest county in South Carolina.

Approximately 75% of York County residents are white. Almost 20% of the people are Black. The county is also about 3% Asian, and there are small populations of people with Native American or Pacific Islander heritage.

York is a youthful county. Less than 15% of the residents are age 65 or older. 24% of the people are younger than 18 years old.

At Kings Mountain National Military Park, you can satisfy your inner history buff and your inner nature lover. To learn about the battle fought there, check out the park's visitor center, or attend a demonstration. They're held occasionally throughout the year. If you're not up for the 16-mile hiking loop, try the 1.8-mile Ridgeline Trail instead. It not only connects Kings Mountain National Military Park and Kings Mountain State Park, but it also goes to Crowder's Mountain State Park in North Carolina.

For another outdoor experience, try Anne Springs Close Greenway. The property includes hiking, biking and horseback trails. To enjoy the facility's Lake Haigler, you can rent a stand-up paddleboard or a kayak. Fishing is another option.

Of course, Lake Wylie offers plenty of recreational fun, too! A visit to Ebenezer Park is one option for enjoying the waterfront. Camping, boating and fishing are a few of the amenities at this park.

Culture & Heritage Museums is an association of four York County attractions. They include the Main Street Children's Museum, Historic Brattonsville, the McCelvey Center and the Museum of York County. Within the McCelvey Center is the Lowry Family Theater, where you can attend a concert in the Southern Sound Series. In addition to exploring the exhibits in the Museum of York County, you can also check out the museum's Settlemyre Planetarium.

Other cultural attractions in York County include the Gettys Art Center and the Sylvia Theater. The Rock Hill Symphony, NarroWay Productions and the Rock Hill Community Theatre are known for their live performances.

Rock Hill, Fort Mill and York have a variety of specialty shops, boutiques and gift stores. There are more than 10 farmer's markets in the county as well. You'll need energy for a busy day of shopping, but the area's many southern-style restaurants can help with that.

Don't miss Summerfest, which is held in York each August. According to the South Carolina Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Travel, this annual event is worthy of a Most Outstanding Festival of the Year award. Other popular York County festivals include the South Carolina Strawberry Festival in May, the Blues and Jazz Festival in August, and ChristmasVille in December.

Also, Carowinds, a 407 acre amusement park -- the largest in the Carolinas -- is partially located in York County. You'll love the annual SCarowinds event at Halloween, among many other fantastic activities at the park.

No matter when you're in York County, there's always plenty to see and do!