Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Carthage, North Carolina, to College Park, Georgia

If you're looking for a scenic road trip between Carthage, North Carolina, and College Park, Georgia, there are plenty of exciting places to explore along the way. This journey spans approximately 400 miles and takes around 6 hours to drive. From lush forests to charming towns, stunning scenery, and fantastic food, it's an adventure that promises to be full of surprises and wonder.

Halfway Point: Moore, SC

Before delving into the unexpected locations along this route, it's worth mentioning the halfway mark, Moore, which is located in the Upstate Region of South Carolina. The town, situated between Spartanburg and Greenville, has a rich history and is home to several parks and green spaces, including the Timmons Park, Conestee Park, and Lake Robinson. It's a perfect place to stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and admire the natural beauty of the area before continuing your adventure.

Place One: The Uwharrie Forest, NC

The Uwharrie Forest, located in central North Carolina, is a stunning natural wonderland that's often overlooked by travelers. The forest covers 50,000 acres of land and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including black bear, deer, and wild turkey. There are several hiking trails throughout the forest, including the popular Uwharrie Trail, which takes you through the heart of the forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After a long hike, be sure to satisfy your appetite at the Pisgah Covered Bridge, right outside the forest, where you can enjoy some Southern fried chicken and homemade biscuits.

Place Two: The Lazy 5 Ranch, NC

If you're a fan of exotic animals, the Lazy 5 Ranch in Mooresville, North Carolina, is sure to delight you. This 185-acre drive-through safari park is home to over 750 animals from six different continents. You can take a leisurely drive around the ranch and view giraffes, zebras, buffalo, camels, and more from the comfort of your own vehicle. For lunch, stop into the Landmark Family Restaurant in nearby Troutman for their famous country-fried steak with gravy.

Place Three: Abbeville, SC

Abbeville, South Carolina, is a charming historic town home to several notable landmarks. The city was founded in 1758 and boasts many examples of antebellum architecture. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the town and learn about its history, including the pivotal role it played during the Civil War. Be sure to stop into the Square Cafe for a slice of their famous tomato pie, a Southern classic that's not to be missed.

Place Four: The Peachoid, SC

The Peachoid, located in Gaffney, South Carolina, is a massive peach-shaped water tower that stands at 135 feet tall. This iconic landmark is visible from the interstate and is worth the detour to take a closer look. It's a great spot for a fun photo op and a perfect place to teach kids a thing or two about agriculture in the South. Afterward, head to Harold's Grill for some mouth-watering pulled pork with a side of hush puppies.

Place Five: Providence Canyon, GA

Providence Canyon, located near Lumpkin, Georgia, is a stunning geological wonder known as the "Little Grand Canyon of Georgia." The canyon, formed by years of erosion, features striking, colorful walls that are a photographer's dream. You can hike the nine-mile trail system to explore the depths of the canyon and take in the beauty of this natural wonder. After your hike, grab a slice of peach cobbler in nearby Americus at the popular Sweet Georgia Baking Company.

Conclusion

While there are plenty of popular stops along the way from Carthage, North Carolina, to College Park, Georgia, don't overlook these unexpected gems. Whether it's a scenic drive through the Uwharrie forest, a visit to the exotic animals at the Lazy 5 Ranch, or a walk through Abbeville's historic town square, there's something for everyone on this road trip. So pack a cooler, hit the road and embark on one of the most surprising journeys the South has to offer.