Bald Rock Heritage Preserve

If you're driving to Caesars Head State Park, you might notice cars parked on the east side of U.S. 276 about five miles from the park headquarters. The big attraction here is Bald Rock, a natural scenic overlook offering a stunning view of the surrounding mountains.

A wooden footbridge leads to a huge rock outcropping the size of a football field. The summit is so large, you can enjoy the panorama without feeling the slightest bit apprehensive, even if you have a fear of heights.

Part of the Bald Rock Heritage Preserve, the outcropping overlooks the foothills of Pickens and Greenville counties and South Carolina's signature natural attraction - the mammoth granite dome known as Table Rock.

Managed by the S.C. Department of Natural Resources, the preserve lies within the Mountain Bridge Wilderness area and spans 165 acres.

Unfortunately, the rock has been covered in graffiti since the1970's. Since SCDNR purchased the property in 2001, graffiti has been illegal. It is also incompatible with the state's mandate to protect and preserve the headwater streams, rare and endangered plants and animals, and other natural resources. SCDNR is now working with Friends of Bald Rock volunteers to clean up the litter and remove graffiti.

Find a spot on the rock, sit back and enjoy your own "king of the world" moment.