In 1936, the first South Carolina state parks opened, starting with Myrtle Beach State Park, followed by Aiken State Park, Cheraw State Park, Kings Mountain State Park, and Poinsett State Park (not necessarily in that order). The most recent state park to open was in 2006, the H. Cooper Black Jr. Memorial Field Trial and Recreation Area. But that "title" is soon to be taken by the Black River State Park, the new state park in South Carolina that is currently in the developmental stages, to be situated along one of our historic rivers, the Blackwater River in South Carolina.

The park is named after the Black River, although, not to be confused with the Edisto River, as it is so known, as well as the longest free-flowing blackwater river in North America.

The Black River holds historical significance as an area where African Americans lived and started their lives. This park will help protect and interpret the river's history, from Colonial times until the present — including the legacy of the Revolutionary War and Civil War.

The river's name comes from its color, which has been observed to be like black tea. Several of the state's rivers are this dark hue.

The river winds for about 150 miles through Sumter, Clarendon, Williamsburg, and Georgetown Counties. It becomes part of the Great Pee Dee River near Georgetown.

In some places, the Black River is swamp-like, while in others it is swift-moving with a sandy bottom.

This state park is the first new park in nearly 20 years and the result of much planning and input from the community. It will include multiple units positioned at various points along a 70-mile stretch of the river and will be part of a larger water trail and effort to protect and preserve the area.

Each trail stop will offer a variety of recreational activities and amenities.

The state park unit stops will include camping, trails, pond fishing, kayaking ...

... an outfitters center, cabins, a paddler pull-off and boardwalk, a boat launch, and more.

Plans for a sandy point bar beach would provide a natural, accessible area along the banks of the river for beaching a kayak, having a picnic lunch, or a refreshing swim.

People have been enjoying the Black River for many years, and this state park will enhance and enable further enjoyment into the distant future while conserving natural resources and protecting habitats of our treasured wildlife.

Efforts are currently in the Phase 1 stage, and construction and development are anticipated to take several years to complete.

Get a closer look at this upcoming state park:

Visit the Black River Story Map to follow the progress of this new state park as its vision comes to life. What are your thoughts about this new Black River State Park? Share with us in the comments section. Be sure to check out several more amazing South Carolina state parks.