Upstate Families Hop Into Summer with Interactive Park Exploration Program
May 11, 2026
A popular summer tradition has returned to the Upstate, encouraging families to trade screen time for sunshine. Park Hop, an interactive park exploration program, officially kicked off its 2026 season this weekend, inviting residents to discover local gems across Greenville County and beyond.
The program, which runs from May 9 through August 9, 2026, serves as a large-scale scavenger hunt designed to introduce families to the diverse range of public spaces available in the region.
How the Adventure Works
Participation is open to all residents through a simple three-step process:
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Online Registration: Families can sign up at the official website, parkhop.org.
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Park Exploration: Participants visit a list of featured “Park Hop” locations.
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Clue Solving: Once at a park, explorers must find and answer specific clues to earn points.
Accumulated points can eventually be redeemed for prizes, adding a competitive and rewarding element to outdoor recreation.
Local Highlights in the Golden Strip
Several high-profile parks in the Simpsonville and Fountain Inn areas are featured in this year’s circuit, providing convenient local options for residents:
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Heritage Park (Simpsonville): Known for its expansive athletic fields and playgrounds located at 861 SE Main St.
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Sanctified Hill Park (Fountain Inn): A key community hub located at 437 Putman St.
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Cedar Falls Park (Fountain Inn): Offering a more nature-focused experience with its historic shoals and trail system at 201 Cedar Falls Rd.
Farther north in the county, the program also highlights locations such as Trailblazer Park in Travelers Rest, ensuring that “Hoppers” have the opportunity to see every corner of the Upstate.
Community Impact
Beyond the fun and prizes, Park Hop is recognized by local health officials as a vital tool for community wellness. By gamifying the park experience, the program lowers the barrier to physical activity and helps residents develop a stronger connection to their local environment.
With the program now officially underway, local parks are expecting an uptick in visitors. Families are encouraged to log their discoveries throughout the summer to qualify for the grand prize drawings in August.
