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    Swan Lake Iris Gardens

    4.5 (63 reviews)
    Closed 7:30 am - 8:00 pm

    Swan Lake Iris Gardens Photos

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    the visitors center
    Joseph S.

    This is a spectacular place to enjoy a beautiful and tranquil setting. The landscaping and water features are truly magical. We wholeheartedly recommend visiting here.

    Toni V.

    What a beautiful place! My sister and I had never been here and decided to go to see the swans. Well, we were not disappointed! We saw many beautiful swans and the grounds were beautiful as well. We didn't realize how large the park is and that there are walking trails. We enjoyed the history posts that you can listen to as you walk around the park. We want to do back and do more walking and look into their special events, such as Christmas, as well.

    There are 8 different species of swan here. They also decorate for Christmas
    Catherine L.

    A beautiful place to connect with nature- the loop around the pond is a short and easy walk. There are recordings that play at different stations along the trail, explaining the characteristics and history of different plant species that reside there. You will see plenty of swans, 8 different species! And they were much less aggressive than the swans I have encountered at other parks. I went on a Monday in December and there were only a couple other visitors there. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit, and I would love to come back for a jog. No pets allowed.

    Charles R.

    I really enjoy stopping by here to see the swans or just walking around in nature. The staff and rangers are all very nice and helpful. I especially seeing the fountain. The Iris Festival is one of the longest running events in South Carolina that is a can not miss every year! I highly recommend a stop and stroll around the lake.

    A swan
    Mary C.

    Beautiful natural scenes. Trees seemingly floating on water like nothing I've ever seen before. There are various paths, benches, gazebos and even picnic pavilions. There are at least 2 restroom locations that I saw which is convenient. There are a variety of swans and plaques that describe each of them. Wander around and discover a lovey Braille garden and butterfly garden. Running water, soft breezes and the swans' song will lull you into a peace not often found in busy life. Enjoy and let me know what you think.

    Brandy B.

    This places makes me sooooooooooo happy. If I lived closer, I'd visit weekly. Truly a gem! Tons of waterfowl species (swans, geese, ducks, cranes, herons, cormorants) and turtles too. Entrance is free, parking is free. In spring you can enjoy viewing the newly hatched babies. Not sure the length of the whole trail (on both sides connected by a street covered overpass), great place to take a solo stroll, have a family outing or romantic date! Highly recommend!

    Robert G.

    My wife and I stopped here while on a road trip and love it! We had no idea beforehand that the Iris Festival was going on too, but it was a really great time!

    Rob D.

    Ok this place is relaxing! If you are coming through this area I highly recommend stopping and relaxing on a bench for a bit. Fountain, water fowl galore Pretty easy parking.

    Turtles at Swan Lake, Sumter, SC. 03/14/21.
    Kathy M.

    Visited here on 03/14/21. Enjoyed our time having a picnic on the additional covered area and my granddaughter liked the playground. Walked around the lake, was fun seeing swans, geese and turtles. I didn't see many swans however. I'm wondering why? Some were in fenced areas and I could clearly see, they wanted to get out. No worker around to ask questions. Recommend animal keepers be outside and accessible to people walking around. Have a weekly advertised educational time scheduled and posted on the grounds.

    Rowanda C.

    This park was absolutely beautiful. I've personally never seen so many swans at once so it was definitely a sight to see. I've also never seen a black swan so that was pleasant surprise for me. It's clearly a go to for anyone interested in nature.

    2020 John-Luke(Dad), Amir(Son) and Keoni(Son)
    John-Luke M.

    Beautiful place to take family pictures. My Ohana goes there every chance we get. Kids love it.

    Swans like no where else!

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    8 months ago

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    1 year ago

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    4 months ago

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    2 years ago

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    2 years ago

    This is one of Sumter's hidden gems... beautiful all year round! The pounds are filled with wildlife and it feels safe.

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    3 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    7 years ago

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    5 years ago

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    3 years ago

    Went during the Iris festival last year and the family enjoyed it. Boat ride was nice.

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    4 years ago

    Fun place to walk & learn about swans. You can also see some nests with baby swans depending on the time of year.

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    11 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    6 years ago

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    5 years ago

    Great place to take the family. A great place to take photo's. Beautiful scenery. Paths to take walks.

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    8 years ago

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    14 years ago

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    8 years ago

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    7 years ago

    This place can be summed up in one word "Beautiful" If you live in Sumter you should go.

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    7 years ago

    Amazing time with the kids...huge spent 2 hrs walking around....beautiful scenery and wildlife. Very well maintained.

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    17 years ago

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    14 years ago

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    9 years ago

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - Swan Lake Iris Gardens

    Review Highlights - Swan Lake Iris Gardens

    The Iris Festival is one of the longest running events in South Carolina that is a can not miss every year!

    Mentioned in 4 reviews

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    Swan Lake Iris Gardens - parks - Updated May 2026

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