A rocky shoals section of the Catawba River in South Carolina is home to the largest stand of rocky shoals spider lilies in the world – it is in full bloom each year for only a few weeks in May and June. A day trip to see the lilies is an amazing experience and the best place to get a front row seat is at Landsford Canal State Park in Catawba.

Each year, the state park has a Lilyfest to celebrate the beginning of the blooming season.

Matthew Ivan Merkel/Trover

Lilyfest took place last weekend — which means that now through the middle of June, we should see lilies GALORE on the Catawba.

South Carolina State Parks

The absolute best way to get a spectacular view is by taking the short Canal Trail (a mere 0.7 miles each way) at the state park.

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You’ll have some views along the way, but the trail leads to a viewing platform where you’ll see lilies aplenty!

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Spider Lilies grow from bulbs in wet areas, such as along the shallow edges of streams.

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But the rocky shoal that fills the Catawba here allows the bulbs to anchor around and beneath the rocks, thus producing a blanket of white blooms that covers the vista at the height of the blooming season.

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It’s a once-a-year phenomenal scene everyone should witness at least one time.

South Carolina Parks

Getting there is not difficult. Landsford Canal is located in Catawba. It’s easily accessible from Interstate 77, US-21, and US-521.

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If you haven’t witnessed the seasonal bloom of Rocky Shoals Spider Lilies yet, then you’re in for an amazing day. The lilies are currently expected to be in bloom through at least the middle of June. The website for South Carolina State Parks has more information, and is posting regular updates on the status of the lilies. You can access it via this link. Admission to the state park is $5 for adults 16 years and older; $3 for children ages 6-15; and $3.25 for S.C. seniors. The park is open from dawn to dark, daily.

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South Carolina State Parks

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South Carolina Parks

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Address: 2051 Park Drive, Catawba, SC, 29704

 

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