South Carolina State Parks Service Launches Yearlong ‘Making Memories’ Photo Contest

June 9, 2014

COLUMBIA, SC – The South Carolina State Parks Service is excited to announce the launch of ‘Making Memories,’ a yearlong photo contest inviting visitors and locals alike to capture, then share, their experiences in South Carolina’s state parks.

“This unique photo contest gives tourists, and South Carolinians, the opportunity to share their favorite memories of their trip to our beautiful state parks throughout the seasons,” said Duane Parrish, Director of the South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism. “Our hope is this contest will drive traffic to these undiscovered locations, while also increasing overall awareness of our 47 state parks.”

Running now through May 31, 2015, the contest encourages park-goers to snap pictures of their time spent in South Carolina state parks, focusing on three specific categories – wildlife, landscapes and people – during the summer, fall, winter and spring seasons. Quarterly winners will be selected from each category for a total of 12 winners throughout the year. Winners will receive merchandise gift cards provided by Mast General Store.

The grand prize winner, selected from one of the top 12 winners and voted on by parks’ Facebook fans, will receive an ultimate outdoor adventure package worth more than $1,000.

Some of the 47 state parks include, Caesars Head State Park and Devils Fork State Park in the Upstate, Dreher Island State Park and Sesquicentennial State Park in the Midlands and Huntington Beach State Park, Charles Town Landing State Historic Site, Edisto Beach State Park and Lake Warren State Park in the Lowcountry.

Admission varies between parks, but ranges from free to $10/person. Amenities at most parks include fishing, walking, biking and hiking trails, paddling and picnics areas. Additionally, a number of parks offer camping and lodging options.

“Our state parks are a wonderful, natural asset to our state and through this contest people will be able to see and experience that firsthand,” said Parrish.

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For more information about the contest and to enter images, please visit South Carolina State Parks’ Facebook page or visitSCMakingMemories.com. To purchase an official South Carolina State Parks guide that includes information on all 47 parks, park safety, activities and more, please visit SouthCarolinaParks.com.