Live tree versus artificial tree is perhaps the greatest Christmas season debate, though not nearly as passionate a debate in South Carolina as University of South Carolina versus Clemson, of course! The statistics are interesting, however, with approximately 25-30 million real Christmas trees sold in the U.S. every year. That’s a lot of Christmas trees! Yet, only 32.6% of Americans opt for a real one. If you do or have ever in the past, then you know it’s usually quite an experience picking out your tree. Many Christmas tree farms in South Carolina go to great lengths to make sure it’s a memorable one, including Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm.

The farm is located near Clarks Hill, a tiny town in McCormick County, which is a part of the Old 96 District. The farm itself is actually located in Edgefield County.

It’s a family owned and operated farm that has been open since 1983.

There are seven different varieties of trees growing on 50 acres.

These are Carolina Sapphires which are conically shaped trees with a great pyramidal growth habit, and they are disease resistant.

Their lacy, silvery-blue foliage makes them very unique. They have a festive aroma, with hints of lemon and mint, and are best cut later in the season, although some bring them home Thanksgiving weekend with success.

You can get a tree here anywhere from six feet up to 25 feet tall!

There aren’t really any hard and fast rules when it comes to picking out your Christmas tree. But it’s definitely a good idea to consider ahead of time just how big a tree you want and be sure you take a vehicle large enough to accommodate your tree!

Now at Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm, a hayride comes with your experience. Take a fun ride to and from the field in a tractor-pulled wagon!

There’s also a cafe where you’ll want to stop first to grab some hot chocolate if the weather is cold, which you never can be sure in South Carolina this time of year. But it’s nice the farm has this available, and it’s not likely to be hot weather, per se.

Once you pick out your tree, someone at the farm will shake it to remove any loose needles and net it before loading it into or onto your vehicle.

There are beautiful wreaths, kissing balls, and handmade bows available for purchase as well.

Visit the Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm website or the Clarks Hill Christmas Tree Farm Facebook page for more details. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the one Christmas town in South Carolina that’s a must-visit!

Do you do live trees or artificial? Share with us in the comments section below!