Harbison State Forest Tours

Photo by Cindy Keese
Photo by Cindy Keese


Not just a collection of trees, forests provide habitats for many plants and animals and pump out oxygen we need to live. Check out Harbison State Forest and learn about this complex ecosystem.

This dense growth of trees in Columbia is popular with travelers, so put it on your schedule. Don't stop there, though. There are plenty more options ready for you to appreciate after Harbison State Forest. Columbiana Centre, Frankie's Fun Park, and Saluda Shoals Park are nearby.

Plan a trip to see Harbison State Forest

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Super 8 by Wyndham Harbison/Parkridge Hospital
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Columbia Airport
Sleep Inn Columbia

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Harbison State Forest

Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison

Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison

3 out of 5
434 Columbiana Dr, Columbia, SC
Hilton Garden Inn Columbia/Harbison
Hyatt Place Columbia/Harbison

Hyatt Place Columbia/Harbison

3 out of 5
1130 Kinley Road, Irmo, SC
Hyatt Place Columbia/Harbison
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-I-26 @ Harbison Blvd by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-I-26 @ Harbison Blvd by IHG

2.5 out of 5
211 Lanneau Ct, Columbia, SC
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Columbia-I-26 @ Harbison Blvd by IHG
Comfort Suites Columbia at Harbison

Comfort Suites Columbia at Harbison

2.5 out of 5
750 Saturn Pkwy, Columbia, SC
Comfort Suites Columbia at Harbison
Hampton Inn Columbia I-26/Harbison Blvd.

Hampton Inn Columbia I-26/Harbison Blvd.

2.5 out of 5
101 Woodcross Dr, Columbia, SC
Hampton Inn Columbia I-26/Harbison Blvd.
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison

2.5 out of 5
320 Columbiana Dr, Columbia, SC
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison
Charming Upstairs Apt in Irmo | 3 BR | Sleeps 6

Charming Upstairs Apt in Irmo | 3 BR | Sleeps 6

2 out of 5
Columbia
Charming Upstairs Apt in Irmo | 3 BR | Sleeps 6
Super 8 by Wyndham Harbison/Parkridge Hospital

Super 8 by Wyndham Harbison/Parkridge Hospital

2 out of 5
411 Piney Grove Rd, Columbia, SC
Super 8 by Wyndham Harbison/Parkridge Hospital
Quality Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison

Quality Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison

3 out of 5
350 Columbiana Dr, Building A, Columbia, SC
Quality Inn & Suites Columbia Harbison
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Harbison State Forest

At Harbison State Forest in Columbia, South Carolina, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities including sports, swimming, and soccer. The forest offers a beautiful setting for hiking and exploring nature, making it a perfect spot for both relaxation and adventure. Additionally, the nearby attractions in Columbia provide opportunities for dining, shopping, and experiencing the vibrant local culture.

Food and drinks

For an unforgettable dining experience, visit Hall's Chophouse for excellent steaks and southern hospitality. If you're in downtown Columbia, check out Restaurant Hub for a variety of local flavors. Both spots embody the vibrant culinary scene at the heart of Ballston.

Shopping

For shopping near Harbison State Forest, visit Columbiana Centre, just 2 miles away, offering family-friendly vibes and entertainment. Soda City Market, 8 miles away, features a vibrant public market atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, check out Village at Sandhill Mall, 14 miles away, with a mix of family and entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience the energetic atmosphere at Colonial Life Arena, just 9 miles from Harbison State Forest, where you can catch a game or event. For relaxation, head to Saluda Shoals Park, 5 miles away, offering serene walking trails and beautiful nature. Enjoy a round at Oak Hills Golf Club, 6 miles away, surrounded by lush greenery.

Adventure

The West Columbia Riverwalk, located 8 miles from Harbison State Forest, offers scenic hiking trails surrounded by nature, perfect for adventure seekers. Similarly, the Three Rivers Greenway, 12 miles away, features beautiful landscapes and outdoor vibes, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore the area.

Nightlife

At Harbison State Forest, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Frankie's Fun Park, featuring arcade games and family fun just 2 miles away. For a cultural experience, the Harbison Theatre and Township Auditorium, both within 3 to 8 miles, offer romantic shows and entertainment for all ages.

Find the best attractions near Harbison State Forest

Harbison State Forest offers a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it a great destination for families and nature lovers. Explore nearby attractions such as the Columbia Museum, Fort Jackson, and Saluda Dam, or enjoy the scenic beauty of local lakes and parks. With its rich history and diverse activities, there's something for every traveler to enjoy in and around this beautiful area of Columbia, South Carolina.

  • University of South Carolina: Explore this historic university known for its vibrant culture and rich history. Stroll through its picturesque campus, featuring beautiful architecture and lush gardens, while soaking in the academic atmosphere that has shaped many influential leaders.
  • Lake Murray: Enjoy a romantic escape at Lake Murray, where you can relax on sandy beaches, partake in various outdoor activities, or simply take in the breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for picnics, fishing, or boating, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle.
  • Williams Brice Stadium: Experience the excitement of college football at this historic stadium, home to the South Carolina Gamecocks. Feel the energy of passionate fans and enjoy the vibrant culture surrounding game days, making it an unforgettable sports experience.

Best time to go to Harbison State Forest

Visitor numbers around Harbison State Forest is generally unchanged in popularity throughout the year. The best time to visit Harbison State Forest can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Harbison State Forest falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Harbison State Forest falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January45.9°F (7.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
March55.9°F (13.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
April64.0°F (17.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
May71.8°F (22.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June79.2°F (26.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July82.2°F (27.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly Low
August80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September75.6°F (24.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly High
October65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November54.9°F (12.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December49.8°F (9.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Harbison State Forest

To save money on your trip to Harbison State Forest, consider visiting during the off-peak months of July and December to January for lower accommodation prices. Utilize public transport and explore nearby free attractions like the University of South Carolina, Lake Murray, and Allen University. Use Expedia's search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and consider booking a package deal to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and allow you to earn OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Harbison State Forest are July and December to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to May and September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to choose your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can sort the results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the "Eco-certified" filter will showcase sustainable and eco-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Harbison State Forest with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.