Stockade Fort at Ninety Six National Historic Site

PARK OVERVIEW

Ninety Six National Historic Site in Ninety Six, South Carolina, gets its name from a town that no longer exists, having been burned down during the American Revolution. However, the town’s history goes back long before the war. It began in the mid-1700s as a major Indian trading post, played a part in the Indian Wars of 1760-1762, and saw two Revolutionary War battles, including the first land battle in the southern colonies.

Today, the main attractions at Ninety Six are the American Revolution battlefield, the Star Fort and Stockade Fort (reconstructed), hiking trails on remnants of the original roads that led to Charleston and to the Cherokee Indian Village of Keowee, the site of the original town (burned after the second battle), and fishing at the Star Fort Pond on select days.

A 1-mile, paved walking trail takes visitors to all the points of interest within the Ninety Six historical area. There are plenty of information panels along the trail, complete with diagrams about how the battle played out, so it is easy for visitors to picture the events that took place.

OPERATING HOURS

Park grounds are open daily from dawn to dusk, though the park gates close at 4:30 PM and you must have your car out by then. There is a parking area outside the gates for those who want to hike the trails in the early morning or evening. Also park here if you think you might still be hiking past 4:30 PM.

The Visitor Center is open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9 AM to 4 PM.

The Star Fort Pond and parking lot are open from April 1st to October 31st. During the operating season, the pond is open for fishing on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays during daylight hours.

The park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Time can always change, so before making travel plans be sure to check the Ninety Six National Historic Site’s Operating Hours and Seasons web page for the current schedule.

FEES

There is no fee to enter Ninety Six National Historic Site. Donations are always welcome.

SCHEDULING YOUR VISIT

Visitor Center
allow 1 hour

Touring the Battlefield
allow 1 hour

Hiking Trails
allow 1-5 hours