11 Eerie Locations in South Carolina Known for Ghosts

This post may contain affiliate links which means we may get a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Please read our disclosure for details.

South Carolina is a state rich with history, country charm, and a healthy dose of the otherworldly. It isn’t surprising then, that so many believe spirits of the past still live in the state, with its cobblestone streets, antebellum homes and rich cultural heritage. South Carolina provides a wide range of sites for those looking for a lil’ scare and for those who are curious about a bit of history.

From ghost enthusiasts to those simply curious about the paranormal, these locations will give you a peek into the state’s mysterious past. If you’re brave enough for a ghostly adventure, explore these 11 eerie South Carolina sites well-known for being haunted. You never know what you might find when you start unraveling these dark secrets!

The Old City Jail

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

The Old City Jail, located in Charleston, was a holding place for some of the 18th and 19th centuries most notorious criminals. Famous for its gothic nature, this structure is the source of several tall tales of torture and despair. Many visitors report feeling a strange chill wandering down the crumbling hallways, with some even saying they’ve seen shadowy figures hovering in the corners. Ghost hunters who attempt to contact the spirits that they believe remain on the grounds report that the air feels thick and echoes of the past can be sensed.

The Battery

Photo Credit: Chris Pruitt/Wikimedia Commons

This Charleston promenade is not only beautiful with its harbor and historic mansions view but… The Battery is believed by many to be haunted by the spirits of a Confederate soldier walking the shore. Stroll along the streets laid with oak there, and your eyes may see spectral figures or hear the whispers of the harboured terms carried up by the sea breezes. This location certainly has a blend of beautiful and mystery.

The Red Horse Inn

Photo Credit: Patrick Pelletier/Wikimedia Commons

The Red Horse Inn in Landrum, South Carolina, looks peaceful and idyllic, but not everybody’s had a good time there, especially in the “Springhouse Cottage.” Visitors have heard unexplained footsteps and whispers and caught glimpses of Civil War soldiers’ spirits. The owners love these legends and have adapted their inn to suit the atmosphere the legends have created, for those who are brave enough to stay the night.

Magnolia Cemetery

Photo Credit: C24winagain/Wikimedia Commons

So many of Charleston’s famous people were laid to rest in the city’s Magnolia Cemetery, which is both beautiful and eerie. Upon first glance, this cemetery may look quiet but it’s haunted by Confederate soldiers and other historical figures whom visitors believe are responsible for the flickering lights and unexplained sounds while walking among the many graves. It’s a perfect place to walk with a reflective stomp or a good scare!

The Old Slave Mart Museum

Photo Credit: Brian Stansberry/Wikimedia Commons

Located in Charleston, this once bustling slave auction house is now a museum telling the stories of those who suffered here. Many believe the Old Slave Mart Museum is haunted. Visitors report hearing faint cries or feeling a sense of sadness while exploring the exhibits. It’s a sobering history museum, but a haunting one as well.

The Dogman of Lake Hartwell

Photo Credit: Harrison keely/Wikimedia Commons

This isn’t the most well-known ghost story, but it does make South Carolina’s tales all the more interesting. Locals say a half-dog, half-man creature prowls the shores of Lake Hartwell, especially on moonlit nights. The residents believe they can hear eerie howls and see a strange figure lurking in the shadows. You may not see this hard-to-find creature, but it’s a good story to tell around the campfire and who doesn’t love a good ghost story?

The Ritz Theatre

Photo Credit: W_Lemay/Wikimedia Commons

Since 1985, the Ritz Theatre has been a performing arts venue in what was formerly a vaudeville house in the quaint, beautiful town of Greenwood, South Carolina. Still, the spirit of the past seems to be alive. Patrons and staff have also reported seeing doors opening and closing, and lights flickering during performances. Some say a former performer may still be performing, giving a delightful chill to the theatre experience. Next time you watch a show, listen out for ghostly applause!

Pawleys Island’s Gray Man

Photo Credit: Phoebe/Wikimedia Commons

There’s a legend on Pawleys Island that a ‘Gray Man’ shows up whenever a hurricane is headed their way. This young man’s heartbreaking story of dying in quicksand while running to see his fiancée birthed the belief that he still roams the Island, especially on stormy days. He has reportedly appeared to warn residents of impending storms.

Drayton Hall

Photo Credit: Goingstuckey/Wikimedia Commons

Drayton Hall near Charleston is one of the oldest preserved plantation houses in America, and is rich in history as well as ghostly lore. There have been battles fought and time passed by this historic home. Guests have reported strange occurences including footsteps in empty room, soft whispers at night and many think the spirits of former residents roam the halls. The unique combination of history and haunting is in part responsible for why the town attracts visitors from near and far.

Fort Sumter

Photo Credit: Bubba73/Wikimedia Commons

Fort Sumter is famous for its fair share of ghost stories and the Civil War. Visitors to this historic site often say they feel the presence of soldiers who fought bravely in the conflict. Now and then, carillon of cannon fire appears to echo through the fort and one can hear voices far off in the distance, wondering if the past is truly passed. The spirits of those who shaped the nation’s history beckon with a trip to Fort Sumter, which promises both an educational experience and a way to get close.

Start saving your ideas

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

Affordable Home Entertainment: 11 Must-Have Finds For Enhancing Your Family Movie Nights

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

Image Credit: Shutterstock

How to Clean Your Smoker Grill Combo Like a Pro

10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience

Best African photo safari

Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.

But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.

10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience

Start saving your ideas

Similar Posts