If you turn off the main highway and drive into Chester County, South Carolina, you step into a corner of the Palmetto State where history, hard work, and good old-fashioned Southern hospitality run deep.
Recently, I sat down with the folks at Hazelwood Farms to talk about everything from 18th-century land grants to glass-pipeline dairies and high-energy rodeos. If you’ve been looking for a weekend getaway that combines rural heritage with excitement, mark your calendars for October 3rd!
Centuries of Heritage in Every Drop
Hazelwood Farms isn’t your average operation—it’s a living piece of American history. The original farm plot traces back to a 1760 land grant given to the McCalla family. Over the centuries, the farm has weathered everything from historic storms like Hurricane Hugo to the ever-shifting agricultural landscape.
Walking into the milk barn feels like stepping back in time. Hazelwood is home to one of the only operational 26-cow stanchion barns left in the United States, built long before electricity was available. The barn was intentionally constructed facing east-to-west to capture daylight for morning and evening milkings, with north-facing doors to catch the prevailing breeze—18th-century air conditioning at its finest!
Today, the farm operates with modern care and strict quality standards, producing fresh, unpasteurized raw milk that is tested monthly by the Department of Agriculture. They milk once a day, which keeps their small herd healthy, happy, and producing high-quality milk. You can purchase their fresh raw milk, along with locally raised meats and an assortment of unique local finds, right in downtown Chester at the Hazelwood Farms General Store.
Beyond the dairy, Hazelwood is a thriving 400-acre homestead filled with character. You’ll find Quarter Horses tracing back to legendary bloodlines, mini donkeys with personality to spare, sheep, and even a couple of retired dairy cows living out their best lives.
Mark Your Calendar: The Fall Rodeo on October 3rd!
If you want to experience the farm firsthand, bring your family out on Saturday, October 3rd for an all-day event full of action, food, and music at the Cadillac Ranch Arena in Blackstock, SC!
Event Schedule & Highlights:
- Gates Open at 10:00 AM: Arrive early to enjoy vendors, shopping, food trucks, and a BBQ cook-off.
- All-Day Family Fun: Live country music all day, mutton busting, crowd engagement events, and a mechanical bull contest.
- Rodeo Action Starts at 7:00 PM: Get ready for bull riding and high-energy arena action as the main event kicks off!
Whether you’re a long-time rodeo enthusiast or looking for a fun day out in the countryside, it’s going to be a memorable day in Chester County.
Make a Weekend Out of It: Stay & Explore Chester County, SC
Why not turn your trip to the rodeo into a relaxing weekend getaway? Chester County offers plenty of small-town charm, historical sites, and outdoor recreation.
Where to Stay
- Inn Upon Moon River Plantation Bed & Breakfast (Chester): Located right in downtown Chester, this historic 1800s home doubles as a Blues and Jazz museum. It offers a cozy stay, incredible hosts, and a homemade Southern breakfast.
- The Farmhouse (Fort Lawn): For a quiet, rural stay right in Chester County, this cozy, newly renovated getaway features a private deck, fire pit, and plenty of space to relax after a day out on the farm.
- Canoe Blue Retreat (Great Falls): A stylish set of fully furnished, family-friendly townhome units featuring fire tables, life-size outdoor games, and a wraparound porch—making it an ideal basecamp if you’re traveling with a larger group or looking to explore nearby outdoor spots.
- Richburg Hotels: If you prefer modern hotel amenities right off I-77, Richburg offers comfortable options like the Holiday Inn Express & Suites.
Click here to explore more places to stay across Chester County!
Things to Do Around Town
- Chester State Park: Take a morning walk around the lake, rent a boat, or drop a line in the water. It’s a peaceful spot, and the perfect place to unwind.
- Downtown Historic District: Stroll through historic downtown Chester to view local architecture and pop into local shops.
Click here to explore more fun things to do across Chester County!
Local Bites
- Gene’s Restaurant (Chester): A beloved local staple serving up classic, home-style Southern breakfast and lunch plates.
- The Chicken Coop (Chester): The local go-to spot for crispy fried chicken, tender dinners, and traditional Southern sides.
- Buttermilk’s BBQ (Richburg): Known for warm Southern hospitality and country-style barbecue and home cooking that feels straight out of grandma’s kitchen.
- The Wagon Wheel Restaurant (Fort Lawn): A long-standing local favorite famous for its generous country buffet, fresh seafood, and classic Southern home cooking.
Click here to see a full list of places to eat near you!
See you at the farm on October 3rd! Pack your boots, grab your hat, and get ready to support local farmers while enjoying the countryside.
